Collection Development Librarian

The Whatcom County Library System (WCLS) is accepting applications for a full-time Collection Development Librarian position with the Whatcom County Library System.

SUMMARY: The Collection Development Librarian performs a variety of professional library services pertaining to the selection, development and maintenance of the WCLS materials collections; evaluates the usage of collection materials; conducts materials research; liaises with vendors; leads and/or coordinates special collection projects; and performs other duties as assigned.

APPLICATION: Please upload a cover letter along with your resume for this position. This posting will close at midnight on Thursday, April 23, 2026. Upon completion of the initial application online, candidates will be sent an email invitation to complete the full application, which is required for consideration. Please check the email address that was provided for this important next step in the application process. Applicants may need to check their junk or spam folder.

WORKING HOURS: Average of forty (40) regular scheduled weekly hours. Typical schedule would be Monday - Friday, approximately 9am - 5pm, may include some evening and weekend hours due to events or programming. Successful candidates may be required to adapt to future schedule and/or worksite changes depending on library needs.

QUALIFICATIONS: Excellent interpersonal skills required: Ability to gain thorough knowledge of Whatcom County Library System's policies and procedures; Upholds the Whatcom County Library System's commitment to intellectual freedom, as described in the American Library Association's "Library Bill of Rights" and "Freedom to Read Statement," and the Washington Library Association's "Intellectual Freedom Statement"; Ability to act as a representative of WCLS to the public; Knowledge of the principles and procedures related to selection, acquisition, and processing of library materials in multiple formats; Knowledge of trends, publishers, vendors and suppliers; Knowledge of relevant computer systems and applications; Ability to learn new systems, software and programs as needed; Knowledge of a wide range of literature; Ability to stay abreast of popular culture and current events; Ability to communicate effectively in writing to staff and the public, including writing book reviews and other pieces to promote the use of the collection; Considerable knowledge of the needs of the public and patterns of use of assigned collections; Ability to establish priorities and organize workload; Ability to maintain a pleasant and productive working atmosphere; Ability to keep all relevant parties informed of all major issues and programs and to recommend changes as appropriate; Ability to work and communicate effectively with diverse staff, vendors and patrons to accomplish library and department goals and objectives; Ability to train and motivate staff; Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other professionals; and Ability to obtain a valid Washington Driver's License and ability to cross the US/Canada border. A sense of humor. A passion to learn new things continuously. Requires the ability to speak, understand, and write English clearly and concisely. Requires Master of Library Science; State of Washington Librarian certification, three (3) or more years of relevant experience, or equivalent training, education and/or experience. Requires physical and visual ability to utilize reference sources and to manipulate equipment. The Whatcom County Library System will comply with any pandemic related state or federal mandates and any other COVID mitigation practices deemed appropriate now or in the future.

The Whatcom County Library System values diversity and inclusion and we are interested in hiring candidates that are representative of the communities and patrons we serve.

New employees are subject to a CRC (criminal records check) per RCW 43.43.832.