Collection Development Librarian, Whatcom County Library System, Bellingham WA
Posted March 17, 2014
The Whatcom County Library System (WCLS) is seeking a Collection Development Librarian who is passionate about public library collections to support the delivery of innovative and responsive library services. The Collection Development Librarian performs a variety of professional library services pertaining to the selection, development and maintenance of the WCLS materials collections for our 10-branch and 1-bookmobile library system. Requires a Master’s of Library Science degree and three or more years’ relevant library experience in public services, and a State of Washington Librarian certification. Full time position with beginning compensation of $3,987 per month, plus excellent benefits. Apply by Tuesday, April 15th. Click on the “read more” link for full posting and application instructions.
POSITION: Collection Development Librarian
DEPARTMENT: Collection Support
RESPONSIBILITIES: The Whatcom County Library System (WCLS) is seeking a Collection Development Librarian who is passionate about public library collections to support the delivery of innovative and responsive library services. The Collection Development Librarian performs a variety of professional library services pertaining to the selection, development and maintenance of the WCLS materials collections for our 10-branch and 1-bookmobile library system.
The Collection Development Librarian is responsible for:
Materials selection: Exercise professional judgment to identify, evaluate and select library materials in multiple formats for assigned collections of the Whatcom County Library System. Assign and oversee the development and maintenance of assigned collections.
Inform Library collection decisions: Analyze branch and program statistics, demographics, and holdings information to determine assignment of selected materials.
Patron responsiveness: Anticipate patron interest and demand by keeping abreast of publicity in the media and purchasing promptly. Respond to patron requests for materials in a timely fashion. Ensure that patron requests for reconsideration of library materials are handled promptly and appropriately.
Promotion of collection: Promote assigned collections through the use of the public website, blogs, social media, book reviews in local periodicals, library programs, partnerships and community organizations.
Collection policy: Participate in general collection building and overall policy development with other selectors. Explain and support the collection and selection policies to staff, patrons and the public.
QUALIFICATIONS: You have a wealth of knowledge about, and passion for, the elements that make up a great public library collection. You are skilled in interpreting data from many sources in analyzing collection needs. You are knowledgeable in the principles and procedures related to selection, acquisition, and processing of library materials in multiple formats and the use of integrated library systems. You are skilled in analysis, negotiation and problem solving. Requires the ability to speak, understand, and write English clearly and concisely. Requires a Master’s of Library Science degree and three or more years’ relevant library experience in public services, and a State of Washington Librarian certification. New employees are subject to a CRC (criminal records check) per RCW 43.43.832.
LOCATION: Whatcom County Library System, 5205 Northwest Drive, Bellingham, WA. Perennially recognized by the national media as one of the best places to live in America, Whatcom County is a place that truly has something for everyone. With magnificent natural scenery, skiing and snowboarding at Mt. Baker, hiking, arts and theatre, and charming communities, Whatcom County is a unique area of Washington State. Located 90 minutes from Seattle and within an hour of Vancouver, British Columbia, the County’s northern border with Canada gives it a unique flavor geared to cross-border shopping and recreation.
UNION: Membership in AFSCME, AFL-CIO Local 1581 required commencing not more than 30 days after employment, according to the terms and conditions described in the current bargaining agreement.
SCHEDULE: 40 regular scheduled weekly hours; some evening and weekend hours may be necessary on an occasional basis. Successful candidates may be required to adapt to future schedule changes depending on library needs.
COMPENSATION: $3,987 per month with excellent benefits including Social Security, retirement, medical, dental and optical insurance; paid vacation and sick leave, EAP, and a fun and innovative work environment that values the contributions of our employees.
POSTING DATES: Tuesday, 3/4/14 to Tuesday, 4/15/14
APPLICATION: Submit a completed WCLS Application Packet* by 5:00 pm on Tuesday, 4/15/14 to:
Christina Read, Human Resources Manager
Whatcom County Library System
5205 Northwest Drive
Bellingham, WA 98226
Phone: (360) 305-3600, ext. 216
Email: [email protected]
* Application packets must include:
- Completed WCLS Employment Application (also available at the address above, or any branch library)
- Résumé and cover letter that illustrates your relevant professional experience in public services and how it would help you meet the demands of this position.
JOB BEGINS: As soon after hiring as possible.
SELECTION: Selection criteria may include the contents of the application, an oral interview, and a skills test. Selection of applicants for further consideration and/or possible testing will be determined by the information supplied by the applicants on their applications and accompanying documents. It will be the responsibility of the applicant to supply sufficient information and detail on the application to permit WCLS to properly determine the applicant’s qualifications, abilities and attributes as they relate to the listed position. Interviews will be scheduled ONLY with best qualified applicants, based upon applications, résumés and other documents received, and test results. Applicants who need accommodation during the application, testing or interview process should contact Human Resources.