See LIBRARY AND ARCHIVAL PROFESSIONAL 1.
Functions as a fully qualified, professional librarian or archivist, and independently performs a variety of expert level professional librarian or archivist duties.
This is the expert level of the series. Positions at this level work under general direction using expert level knowledge and skills to perform specialized and highly complex library/archival functions and services.
Positions at this level are responsible for planning and implementing strategic and complex or statewide initiatives as designated by the agency’s strategic plan, institutional goals or industry-identified trends in library/archival service development.
Analyzes and develops library services to enhance customer experience;
Establishes and maintains procedures for recording and assessing library performance;
Contacts and maintains working relationships with state and local government agencies, outside organizations and special interest groups, identifying any training needs for archives/records management or library topics;
Develops and designs specifications and provides consultation for implementation for new or modified library applications;
Responsible for agency participation in and/or provides technical consultation in collaborative development efforts with federal and state agencies, other libraries, networking or data processing groups;
Conducts research, identifies and assesses sources and systems; tracks emerging trends; and monitors industry developments in the application of technology to information access;
Develops data to support budget requests and prepares budget for large projects;
Coordinates major statewide projects, provides leadership, establishes statewide short and long term strategic goals, monitors and analyzes information technology using in-depth knowledge of library information technology tools and trends;
Consults with customers on highly complex issues including those surrounding library governance and other legal matters;
Provides research services and resolves research inquiries; consults finding aids and interprets them for researchers; monitors researchers to assure adherence to collections use and security procedures; guides researchers to other sources for records, publications, and information;
Develops and maintains specialized collections to include developing guidelines and procedures and evaluating gift material for possible inclusion;
Works with experts hired to conserve materials and handles all aspects of environmental monitoring system;
Contacts and maintains working relationships with state and local governmental agencies, outside organizations and special interest groups, identifying any potential training needs;
Identifies materials and develop and implement activities that highlight the collection such as workshops, presentations, consultations, book signings, literary events, exhibits, flyers, brochures, and press releases;
Performs outreach activities, coordinates and plans events, gives tours, and produces outreach materials;
Develops and manages grant cycles as appropriate; conducts site visits and monitors sub-grants;
Monitors material expenditures;
Directs day-to-day operations;
May supervise, lead, train, and direct the work of lower level staff, student employees, volunteers, or interns.
Knowledge of:
theories, principles and practices of professional library or archives administration and procedures; trends in library development thorough knowledge of library science including techniques and procedures; archival processes and procedures; records management; compilation of data and reports; methods of customer needs assessment; customer relations principles and practices.
Ability to:
plan and coordinate work of an operational unit, project or service team, principal phase of a library or archives program, or consultative service requiring independent judgment and action; analyze and recommend needed changes in methods and procedures; design and analyze customer needs assessment; develop and maintain collaborative relationships; develop learning objectives and training programs; communicate effectively orally and in writing; work effectively in a team environment.
All librarian positions must meet the provisions of Title 300-12 WAC Certification of Librarians and RCW 27.04.055 Qualifications of Librarians-Rules-Fees.
Persons legally authorized to work in the U.S. under federal law, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, are eligible for employment unless prohibited by other state or federal law.
Positions require a Master’s degree in library science from an American Library Association accredited program and certification by the State Librarian authorized through the Office of the Secretary of State; or certification by professional portfolio as authorized through the Office of the Secretary of State and five years’ experience as a professional librarian.
OR
Master’s degree involving archives and records management, history or related field and five years’ experience as a professional archivist.
New class, replaces 25190 Principal Library Information Specialist; adopted January 1, 2006.
Revise class. General revision; adopted May 10, 2007 effective July 10, 2007.
Revised definition, typical work, knowledge and abilities; legal requirements; desired qualifications; and added distinguishing characteristics; adopted June 13, 2019; effective July 1, 2019.
Revised Legal Requirements; effective June 6, 2024, due to adopted legislative action.