Jobs

Posted 19 April 2008

Local Historian / Library Specialist
Everett Public Library

Deadline: 2 May

$4625- $6017/Month plus a comprehensive benefits package

The Everett Public Library seeks applicants for the full-time, appointive position of Local Historian/Library Specialist.  The Library
has long played an active and very visible role in the community in preserving and transmitting local history with a staff of two full-time historians working out of the Northwest Room of the Main Library.  The local historians manage a collection of approximately 6000 volumes, including print, manuscripts, newspapers, microfilm, government documents, over 50,000 images, audio, video, and some artifacts. The historians provide reference assistance to visitors of the Northwest Room in person, on the telephone, and via email. They provide programs to various schools, clubs, and organizations, both in the library and at
their meeting locations. They also develop web page content using ContentDM and working with the library web master and graphic designer. Additional responsibilities include writing and administering grants where appropriate, and acting as liaison with other regional heritage groups.  Work is reviewed by observation and through evaluation of reports and projects.  The successful candidate should have professional expertise in local history, knowledge of archival collection management
practices for both print and digital formats, and superior customer service skills.

Illustrative Examples of Work/Essential Functions
*       Explain and demonstrate use of various resources; answer questions and recommend appropriate resources to patrons.
*       Evaluate and select appropriate reference, adult and juvenile collection material.
*       Work and partner with the Everett and Snohomish County heritage community, or the education & training community.  Provide programs, classes, and presentations to various schools, clubs, and organizations, both in the library and at their meeting locations.
*       Catalog and process incoming historical material in an archivally appropriate manner.  Maintain collections following current standards for print and digital materials and the library's collection management policy to ensure the collection is accessible, relevant, and .well cared for.
*       Develop web page content in area of responsibility, working with the library web master and graphic designer.
*       Provide photographic services related to the library's collection of Northwest photographs, including, collecting, copying,
digitizing, and archivally storing photos and making the collection available to the public.
*       Write and administer grants that will enhance the library's collections or services relating to area of responsibility.
*       Plan and participate in educational projects, including public programs and computer training.  Give informative tours of the library facilities to groups of various sizes and interests.
*       Produce and update publications, including, informational handouts and booklists either in hardcopy or digital form for the
library's web page.
*       Supervise, coordinate and participate in the training of employees and volunteers and assure adherence to proper work methods, policies and safety precautions.
*       Perform related work and special projects as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
The following knowledge, skills and abilities are considered to be critical to successful performance in this classification:
Knowledge of:
*       Library information resources and systems including printed material, online databases, and internet searching.
*       Professional expertise in local history, grants development and project administration
*       Modern archival collection management practices and standards as set by industry organizations such as the Society of American Archivists for digital and print formats.
*       Digital imaging and cataloging standards, and content management software such as ContentDM.
        Skill Level:
*       Excellent interpersonal skills for establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with employees, other departments and city staff, city officials and the public.
*       Management and team building skills including supervisory, instruction, problem analysis and decision making, planning and organizing, adaptability/flexibility, stress tolerance and time
management.
*       Superior customer service skills required including a positive customer service orientation with both internal and external contacts.
*       Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
*       Proficient research and documentation skills.
*       Proficient in the use of all office equipment including personal computers and related software applications.
*       Proficient in MS Word and other MS Office applications.
*       High attention to detail.
        Ability to:
*       Work with other employees and the public in carrying through library policies and procedures.
*       Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with co-workers, supervisors, other city staff, and the public and relate to others in a courteous and respectful manner.
*       Prepare and make presentations in a persuasive manner to various audiences.
*       Train, supervise, evaluate and motivate personnel.
*       Write and summarize detailed and complex information in simple terms for communication to various audiences.
*       Prioritize, show initiative and independent judgement in order to deal effectively with a wide range of personnel, patrons, facilities, and resource situations.
*       Keep current with industry best practices, changes and developments in area of responsibility.
*       Maintain a work environment free of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.
*       Work safely and in compliance with Federal and State laws, city policy and standards.
*       Train and supervise, personnel; ability to plan, organize, and guide the work activities of others.
*       Proactively address potential employee issues.

        Required Education & Experience
        A combination of education and related experience may substitute for education requirements.
*       Bachelor's Degree in History or a related field (An advanced degree Is preferred) AND
*       5 years professional experience in a related position.
*       Possession of or ability to obtain a valid Washington State Driver's License.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE AND DEADLINE
All applicants are required to complete and submit (1) the standard City of Everett Application Form, (2) a resume (not to exceed three pages), and (3) a cover letter clearly detailing applicant's relevant work experience and training.  Application materials must be received no later than 5:00 p.m., Friday, May 2, 2008, by the Human Resources Department, City of Everett, 2930 Wetmore Avenue, Suite 6A, Everett, WA 98201.  Application materials may be obtained by telephone (425)
257-8767 or at www.ci.everett.wa.us.  Faxed or e-mailed applications will not be accepted.

FILING OPENS:  April 14, 2008
FILING CLOSES: May 2, 2008
An online version of the application package is available from the City of Everett's web site:
http://www.everettwa.org/ViewJob.aspx?ID=68&JobID=325