Position Title:

Washington State Librarian (Tumwater, WA)

Position Description:

The Washington State Library is the research and reference library at the seat of state government. It is also the recipient organization for the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), and receives annual grants to administer outreach programs to serve all libraries in the state.

The State Library administers the Regional Federal Depository, and through the State Documents Depository Program, the State Library is the official designated holder of the state’s complete collections of government publications. The State Library also administers the Washington Talking Book and Braille Library, located in downtown Seattle, and 11 institutional branches located across the state in correctional and mental health facilities.

The Washington State Librarian reports to the Deputy Secretary of State and serves as the State Library Director.  This position is responsible for fulfilling the library’s mission through the effective and efficient administration of an innovative, and complex organization.

To read the full description, please click HERE (Download PDF reader).

Please note: Interviews for this position will be conducted on an ongoing basis. First review of applicants will be July 24, 2020. It is in the candidate's best interest to apply as soon as possible. The hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at any time.
 

Position Responsibilities: 

• Oversees the State Library as a resource for state government and safeguards its role as a government documents repository, a state historical asset, and resource for all citizens about Washington history
• Develops, plans, implements, and leads strategies that utilize emergent technologies to provide comprehensive public access to library materials, collections, and services to the public
• Ensures all state, federal, and private grant programs within the library are managed in compliance with grant objectives and requirements
• Fosters strong relationships with various partners and constituencies, seeking input and advice and promoting collaborative efforts that maximize the program’s fiscal resources and staff
• Serves as a member of the Chief Officers of State Library Agencies (COSLA) and the Western Council of State Libraries
• Works closely with the Federal Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) leadership to ensure the needs of the state’s libraries are met
• Administers the Library Services and Technology Acts Grants to State Program

Position Qualifications:

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s degree in library or information science from an ALA accredited program
• Five (5) years of full-time, progressively responsible experience in library operations and management as a professional librarian
• Three (3) years of full-time experience with strategic planning and budget development/management.
• Two (2) years of full-time management experience, including personnel management in a library or library-related field
• Ability to efficiently use a personal computer and applicable software to successfully perform the essential job functions of the position

• Ability to be an innovative collaborator on behalf of the State Library and the Washington library community, forging partnerships to support library programs and services
• Knowledge of state government policies and legislative processes
• Experience working with legislators and legislative staff
• Excellent written and oral communication skills

Working Conditions
In this position, the incumbent works primarily in an office environment where sitting for long periods of time and extensive use of the keyboard is required. The standard work hours are Monday-Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Works holidays during legislative session and occasional evening and weekend work. Occasional travel throughout the state and nationwide visiting libraries and attending meetings is required. The position requires standard office, library, and digitizing equipment use and significant interactions with internal and external stakeholders.

How to Apply

• To be considered for this position you must attach the following:
  • Current Resume
  • Letter of interest describing how your experience and qualifications relate to the duties and qualifications of the position
  • 3 Professional References
• You must complete the supplemental questions at the end of this application.  Incomplete responses such as "see resume" will not be considered.  In addition, if the employer you identify in the additional information section is not included on your resume or work experience profile and/or you do not identify an employer, you will not receive credit.
• All veterans must include a copy of your DD214 to receive preference in the hiring process.  You must black out your social security number before attaching it to your application.

• Must have current Washington state driver's license or have requested and obtained an appropriate accommodation