LibraryJobline

Job Description

Salary:            $5,358.00 Monthly; $64,296.00 Annually

Directs and manages all digital services, automated systems, and technology initiatives for the Bellingham Public Library (BPL).  This position is responsible for the shared integrated library system (ILS) for the BPL, all public computing systems, library technology solutions, and special projects; plans and monitors implementation of new technology products and upgrades to existing products; serves a key role in library website administration; and, oversees the library's discovery layer.    Responsible for all technology programs and services for the public, including virtual reference and technology coaching, and for technology training for the staff.  Supervises staff who provide information and digital services to the public.  Works closely with, and coordinates the work of library-assigned ITSD Technology Specialists. Serves as the library's liaison, advocate, and representative to the city's ITSD Stakeholder group; and, provides administrative leadership as an active member of the library's Management Team.  

SUPERVISORY RELATIONSHIP:  

Reports to the Library Director.  Supervises staff within the areas of responsibility.  Works collaboratively with all library staff, our partner library staff and academic Connections staff, city staff, vendor partners, and the community. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB:  

DIRECTS AND MANAGES AUTOMATED LIBRARY SYSTEMS AND TECHNOLOGIES

1. Serves as subject matter expert in department business processes and technology systems. Translates library specific business and operational requirements into designs and specifications for workable information technology solutions. Identifies and analyzes department business needs, work processes and system requirements.
2. Plans and oversees the selection, configuration, and implementation of the ILS and products linked to it in partnership with the Whatcom County Library System (WCLS) and City of Bellingham IT employees, including planning and coordinating implementation of system upgrades and migrations.
3. Manages the efficient operation of the ILS, including application administration and maintenance.  Troubleshoots and reports system software application issues to the vendor; documents and works to resolve system flaws with the ILS vendor and WCLS.
4. Oversees interfaces between the library's ILS and third party products including self-checkout, computer reservation system, community room reservation and events calendars, and web-based applications that require patron authentication.
5. Collects and evaluates statistical data related to the ILS; prepares relevant statistical reports and surveys.
6. Keeps current with new products and programs offered by the library's system vendor, and on new technologies, making recommendations for implementation.
7. Drives strategic planning for library technologies, including defining needs and goals, developing and implementing the library's technology plan, evaluating and recommending technological solutions, and preparing and managing the technology budget; develops annual and multi-year goals and objectives, monitors and reports progress towards meeting them.
8. Leads and manages library information and technology training, services, and programs for the staff and public such as Ask-WA, Tech Coaching, and the introduction of new products.
9. Supervises, coaches, and evaluates staff assigned to area of responsibility.
10. Leads, coordinates and manages library technology systems such as self-checkout , the automated computer reservation system, the library's mobile app, online fee payment, and other third party technologies and peripherals. Serves as project manager for projects related to library technology systems.
11. Serves a key role in library website administration, working with library management staff and City of Bellingham IT staff to coordinate the design and maintenance of the library's website and staff intranet.
12. Leads and directs grant-funded technology initiatives.
13. Acts as liaison to the city's Information and Technology Services Department (ITSD) staff and the city-wide ITSD Stakeholders' Committee.  Serves as on-site coordinator/liaison with the library-designated ITSD staff.

PROVIDES ADMINISTRATIVE LEADERSHIP

1. Assists the Director in overall management of the library system as an active and collaborative member of the library Management Team.
2. Evaluates and makes recommendations on staff development needs, staffing allocations, disciplinary actions, and other personnel matters.
3. Participates in developing the biennial library system budget.  Analyzes library needs, resources and projected revenues; reviews and prioritizes budget requests.
4. Participates in long-range and strategic planning for the library system.
5. Evaluates and reviews current services, policies, and procedures to identify and solve problems, improve public service and/or evaluate use of available resources.
6. Develops new services, policies, and procedures as needed.
7. Articulates, supports, and implements the mission, goals, and policies of the Bellingham Public Library.
8. Participates in professional organizations, conferences, and training.
9. Promotes library services through active participation, involvement, and leadership in the community, in library committees and projects, and in the library profession.

EXPERIENCE & TRAINING REQUIREMENTS:

• Master's degree from an ALA accredited Library & Information Science Program.
• Three years progressively responsible professional library experience.
• Two years of experience managing digital/technology services including responsibility for analysis, implementation, integration, business process improvement and support of computer systems.
• Two years of supervisory experience.
• Relevant experience with library automation and technologies preferred.
• Public library experience preferred.
• OR, any combination of education, training, and experience which provides the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Washington State certification as a librarian.
• Employment contingent upon passing a criminal convictions check, child and adult abuse records check and local background check.
• Must be willing to work various shifts depending upon the needs of the Library, including evenings and weekends.  Must be able to adapt to schedule changes on short notice.
• This position is represented by a union and union membership is required within 30 days.

For more info about this exciting job opportunity & to apply online, please visit our website at: www.cob.org/Employment or call Human Resources at (360) 778-8228. The City of Bellingham values diversity in its work force & is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The Community

On the shores of Bellingham Bay with Mount Baker as its backdrop, Bellingham is the last major city before the Washington coastline meets the Canadian border. The City of Bellingham, which serves as the​ county seat of Whatcom County, is at the center of a uniquely picturesque area offering a rich variety of recreational, cultural, educational and economic activities.

Quick Stats​

• Population: 83,365
• Area: 28.9 square miles
• Travel distances
• Canadian border: 21 miles
• Vancouver, B.C: 52 miles
• Seattle: 90 miles​​
• Miles of bike lanes: 61.1​
• Miles of trails: 68.7

HR Info

For more info about this exciting job opportunity & to apply online, please visit our website at: www.cob.org/Employment. The City of Bellingham values diversity in its work force & is an Equal Opportunity Employer.