Branch Librarian

Full Job Description

The Office of Secretary of State (OSOS) offers some of the most unique and diverse job opportunities in state government. Its critical responsibilities include ensuring a fair and accurate elections process; connecting Washingtonians through the power of libraries; protecting our important government records; and registering corporations and charities. The Secretary of State also administers vital community programs that inspire giving, document our history, and assist crime survivors in avoiding further abuse. This independent office under the state Constitution operates from facilities in the Olympia area and statewide.

The OSOS is looking for top-performing employees who embody its core values of integrity, service excellence, visionary leadership, collaboration and teamwork. It is committed to both employee growth and work-life balance. The benefits of working in state government also include potential eligibility for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

The Washington State Library connects people to the power of libraries. As Washington's oldest cultural institution, the library's unique and rare collections date back to territorial days. Resources include historical print and digital compilations, collections of state newspapers and maps, state and federal government publications, and the Ask-a-Librarian service.

Under the supervision of a Branch Library Services Institutional Librarian, this incumbent is responsible for the planning, implementation, supervision, and evaluation of library and information services to the incarcerated individuals of the Clallam Bay Corrections Center.

This includes responsibility for budget tracking, collection development and maintenance, and reference/information services.

Requirements

Supervises branch staff in day-to-day library operations and in the delivery of all phases of library and information services.
Tasks include:

• Supervises branch staff in the provision of basic reference and information service and provides professional level reference service as needed
• Oversees all phases of the interlibrary loan process
• Oversees the management of the automated circulation system
• Oversees the hiring, training, and supervision of incarcerated library clerks

Performs collection management duties.
Tasks include:

• Assesses, evaluates, and maintains collections through periodic weeding and inventory.
• Reviews and selects all formats of library materials to meet the full range of library/information needs of the customers of the branch library.
• Confers with institution staff and contract staff regarding their clients’ information needs and keeps them informed when the library is able to meet those needs.

Provides programs and activities to supplement general library services.
Tasks include:

• Plans, implements, and evaluates programs to support reentry
• Plans, implements, and evaluates programs such as book discussions
• Develops and participates in ILS-wide programs such as Poetry Month and other observances
• Provides programs from Humanities Washington and other outside groups
• Provides library skill training in conjunction with institution education department
• Develops community partnerships to enhance services to patrons.

Participates in program wide support duties and assists other branches.
Tasks include:

• Provides coverage for other branch libraries.
• In conjunction with their supervisor and the Branch Library Services Program Manager plans, implements, monitors, and evaluates services, policies, and procedures for Institutional Library Services.
• Ensures interagency cooperation by participating in partner agency institution meetings and by meeting regularly with the institution liaison.
• Acts as program wide resource for troubleshooting and/or problem solving for ongoing or special projects.
• Provides technical support or subject expertise to accomplish program goals.
• Works with ILS staff on projects for other branches, such as planning, implementing, and evaluating major changes in a branch.
• Assist other branches with reference or other tasks as needed.
• Attends office sponsored training activities and events.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Master's degree in library science from an American Library Association accredited program.
• Within the past 10 years, one year of professional experience in a library providing adult/young adult public services.
• Ability to efficiently use a personal computer and applicable software to successfully perform the essential job functions of the position.

Preferred/Desired Qualifications:

• Experience providing adult/young adult reference and reader's advisory services.
• Collection management experience, including selection, weeding, and record maintenance.

Additional Information

WORKING CONDITIONS
The position entails extended periods of sitting and standing, predominantly in a library or office setting where frequent interaction with the public is expected. The role demands flexibility, as it involves working under adverse conditions and adhering to standard business hours from Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm, with the possibility of evening and weekend assignments. Ability and willingness to travel and stay overnight. Duties of this position require periodic overnight travel throughout Washington State and occasional nationwide travel; Variation in working hours is anticipated during travel. Primary customers are incarcerated individuals in an adult correctional facility; works with both internal and external customers in person and by phone and email.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS/CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Certification by State Librarian authorized through the Office of the Secretary of State - this qualification is not mandatory for application but is mandatory for employment
• Successful completion of DOC CORE training must be completed within the first 9 months of employment
• Willingness and ability to work within the constraints of institutions and work effectively with incarcerated individuals
• Must pass a criminal history background check
• This position is in a bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) and is subject to the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the State of Washington, The Office of the Secretary of State, and the WFSE.

How to Apply:

• To be considered for this position you must attach the following:
  • Letter of interest describing how your experience and qualifications relate to the duties and qualifications of the position.
  • Current Resume
  • Three Professional references. Personal references will not be considered.
• You must complete the supplemental questions at the end of this application. Incomplete responses such as "see resume" will not be considered.
• 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.

The Office of the Secretary of State is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We do not discriminate on the basis of religion, age, gender, marital status, color, creed, national origin, political affiliation, military status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any sensory, mental or physical ability. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply. Persons of disability needing assistance in the application process, or those needing the announcement in alternative format, should email HR@sos.wa.gov.