LibraryJobline

Job Description

The Washington State library's mission is Connecting Washington through the power of libraries.

The Assistant Program Manager – LSTA Coordinator serves as one of three Assistant Program Managers within the Washington State Library, Library Development program. This position works to develop the management direction and policies that support the State Library to provide leadership and coordination of services to all libraries in the state of Washington. Services are primarily provided using federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funding.

The Assistant Program Manager – LSTA Coordinator is responsible for management of the Agency's LSTA State Programs grant, developing library policies and procedures, and ensuring effective implementation of this grant. This position reports directly to the State Librarian.

Manages LSTA administrative operations

• Maintains signature authority for approval of invoices and claims; signs invoices and claims within areas of delegated authority
• Works with the Washington State Librarian and Deputy State Librarian, library program managers, and Library Development project managers to develop program budgets and detailed allotments. As such, this position manages complex budgets, tracks expenditures, and regularly updates the State Librarian
• Responsible for tactical planning that includes the development of the annual work plan for the Library Development program which provides information on the projects to be implemented during the upcoming year and the resources, e.g., funding and staffing, to support these projects
• Works closely with the Library Council of Washington, a division level statewide advisory committee that advises on statewide library development issues, LSTA program policy direction, and the use of LSTA funding
• Agency's expert on the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) and IMLS
• In coordination with the Washington State Librarian and other staff:
  • Ensures that LSTA planning and implementation is responsive to the stated needs and desires of the Washington library community
  • Develops the LSTA Five-Year Plan which directs the state's efforts to further develop and enhance the services and programs provided by all types of libraries across the state and that gives direction for the expenditure of approximately 17 million dollars over the five year planning period
  • Conducts statewide assessments of need and service. Toward the end of each five-year planning period, the position is responsible for the development of the federally required program evaluation which provides analysis of program activities and their impact on both libraries and the residents of the state

Supports Library Development in project implementation

• Provides project support to other staff in areas of expertise and experience
• Travels with other staff to provide consulting, training, and conduct site visits in assigned areas
• May manage one or more professional level library projects
• Maintains knowledge of the state's libraries and their needs, major programs, and principles of library administration and service
• Maintains effective public relations with Washington library staff at all levels of responsibility utilizing a strong customer service orientation

Federally-designated liaison with the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)

• Acts as one of two federally-designated liaisons with IMLS in Washington state
• Develops a strong working relationship with the staff of IMLS
• Works closely with IMLS staff to resolve questions that arise, discuss issues of importance to the Office and the Washington library community, and provide information that may be requested
• Works in a political environment maintaining awareness of issues and concern which emanate from both IMLS and others within the federal government, and from the State and the Washington library community;  Work effectively with these groups while maintaining the effectiveness and standards of the program

Required Qualifications:

• A Master's degree in library science from an institution accredited by the American Library Association 
• Four years' experience as a professional librarian in a library setting
• Two years of full time experience in a team environment as a working manager
• Professional level knowledge of the principles and applications of management, including budget management at the equivalent of the agency program level
• Ability to multi-task, to analyze complex data and make recommendations
• Communicates well in writing and orally across all ranges of executive, managerial, technical and non-technical levels
• Make effective public presentations
• Proficient in using standard office software, social media, Internet searching and use of library information technology

Desired Qualifications:

• Two years of full time experience in administering, coordinating or developing programs and projects for a state or local agency, or community organization
• Professional knowledge of project management techniques
• Knowledgeable about the state and federal government regulations and procedures and the ability to clearly interpret those regulations to people of all backgrounds and at all levels of responsibility
• Experience working in a State Library setting as part of a Library Development program
• Ability to handle stressful or adverse situations while working calmly and accurately, and maintaining a professional demeanor at all times
• Knowledgeable about the state and federal government regulations and procedures and the ability to clearly interpret those regulations to people of all backgrounds and at all levels of responsibility

HR Info

lissa.kelsey@sos.wa.gov

Resume and cover letter required