Library Programs Series

California State Personnel Board Specification

Series established August 3, 1999

Scope

This series specification describes two class levels used by the California State Library to provide libraries throughout the State with professional library consultative, program, management, and administrative services on complex library programs and issues. Entry into this class series is generally through classes in the Librarian Series including Senior Librarian, Supervising Librarian I, or Supervising Librarian II.

Definition of Levels

Library Programs Consultant

This is the entry and full journey level in the series. Under direction, incumbents provide advice and consultative services to State, local, and other library administrators on the development and coordination of complex, statewide library programs; develop, award, and administer library grant programs, including distribution of funds and review of program results; develop, review, analyze, and interpret applicable State and Federal regulations; and conduct studies and do research regarding the planning, evaluation, and administration of new library programs.

Library Programs Administrator

This class is the supervisory level in the series over professionals at the Consultant level. Under general direction, incumbents plan, organize, and direct the most complex, statewide library programs; develop and administer statewide library policies and programs; supervise, develop, and evaluate staff; and provide guidance and consultative services to other libraries on resource sharing and program development and evaluation.

Minimum Qualifications

Education Requirements

All Levels:

Equivalent to graduation from a college or university and completion of a graduate degree from an accredited library school; or a library media credential issued by a teacher-credentialing commission authorizing service in California; or a graduate degree in a relevant or appropriate field.

Experience Requirements

Library Programs Consultant

Either I

One year of experience in the California state service performing professional librarian duties at a level of responsibility equivalent to that of a Supervising Librarian II.

Or II

Two years of experience in the California state service performing professional librarian duties at a level of responsibility equivalent to that of a Supervising Librarian I or a Senior Librarian.

Or III

Four years of increasingly responsible experience in the development and administration of varied and complex library programs, at least two years of which shall have been comparable in level of responsibility to the class of Supervising Librarian I or Senior Librarian.

Library Programs Administrator

Either I

One year of experience in the California state service performing professional librarian duties at a level of responsibility equivalent to that of a Library Programs Consultant or a Principal Librarian.

Or II

Two years of experience in the California state service performing professional librarian duties at a level of responsibility equivalent to that of a Supervising Librarian II.

Or III

More than five years of increasingly responsible experience in the development and administration of varied and complex library programs, at least two years of which shall have included supervision over library programs comparable in level of responsibility to the class of Principal Librarian.

Knowledge and Abilities

Library Programs Consultant

Knowledge of: Principles and practices of professional library work; modern library methods, techniques, and terminology; library administration, finance, and economic and social trends as they relate to library program development; library service patterns and library subject specialties; community organizations, public relations channels, and survey techniques; grant administration practices; computer applications necessary to provide a full range of library services.

Ability to: Effectively consult with and advise staff, administrators, officials, and governmental agents involved in library establishment, development, and financing; apply professional knowledge and program expertise in specific program areas; reason logically and think independently and creatively; provide persuasive and skilled leadership in program work; establish and maintain cooperative relations; communicate effectively; analyze situations accurately and take effective action.

Library Programs Administrator

Knowledge of: All of the above, and the Department's mission, goals, programs, and policies; principles and practices of organizational management; program development and planning techniques; principles of employee development, training, and supervision; a supervisor's responsibility for promoting equal opportunity in hiring and employee development and promotion, and for maintaining a work environment that is free of discrimination and harassment.

Ability to: All of the above, and direct a staff of professional consultants engaged in major, complex statewide programs; work cooperatively with management and staff in the Department and a variety of other agencies; prepare budget reports; effectively deal with pressures and ambiguities in the workplace; find solutions to complex program needs; encourage and facilitate cooperation and teamwork; resolve conflicts; effectively promote equal opportunity in employment and maintain a work environment that is free of discrimination and harassment.

Class History