Job Number: 2026-00181
The King County Library System is seeking an experienced and customer service focused Selection Librarian to join our Cataloging and Access department.
The Selection Librarian performs a wide range of professional library services pertaining to the selection, development, and maintenance of the KCLS materials collections. This position serves as a system-wide collections expert in specialized areas (i.e. music, adult, children's, young adult, etc.) and formats (i.e. scores, recordings, audiobooks, etc.).
The position carries out administrative functions such as planning, budget forecasting, grant management, coordination, and the development of standards, guidelines, and procedures unique to area of specialization. Success in this role requires strong written and in-person communication skills, and along with the ability to make sound decisions in complex and sometime ambiguous situations.
The ideal candidate will have solid experience with budget planning, forecasting and prioritization, as well as extensive knowledge of collection development practices and public library collection. A strong understanding of foundational DEI principles and Intellectual Freedom is also essential.
Experience selecting or managing materials for a large library system—and evaluating items within a public library collection—is highly desirable.
This position requires a Master of Library Science degree from an American Library Association (ALA) accredited program.
Applicants must attach a current resume and cover letter which addresses why they are interested in the position and how they meet the qualifications listed.
About King County Library System (KCLS):
KCLS has a vision of a world where knowledge allows diverse communities to prosper and grow. In order to support this vision, we create opportunities through meaningful connections by acting as the knowledge sharing center for over 1.5 million diverse patrons, providing an unparalleled collection of library materials, resources, technology, services, and programs.
Approximately 1,000 engaged and passionate staff provide service in 50 community library locations and patron engagement using direct outreach, programs, and virtual assistance. Our service area includes cities, towns, tribal lands, and unincorporated districts of King County, with the exception of the city of Seattle.
From a 2021-2022 comprehensive Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Assessment Demographics and Language Report, of the more than 1.5 million residents who live within the KCLS service area, almost half identify as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color (BIPOC). Moreover, roughly one-third of the KCLS community speaks a language other than English as their first language.
The King County Library System values the diverse perspectives, lived experiences, and cultures of all qualified individuals. We seek applicants that reflect the diversity of the communities we serve and encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply, including BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and other people of color), immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQIA+, individuals with disabilities, veterans, etc.
KCLS welcomes reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities as an opportunity to assist qualified individuals to participate in the job application or interview process and/or perform the essential functions of the position upon hire. Need an accommodation to apply or interview? Call (425) 369-3224 or email employment@kcls.org.
KCLS ensures equal opportunities and consideration for all job applicants, without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
KCLS does not tolerate discrimination or harassment during any stage of employment, including in recruiting, hiring, promotion, termination, leave of absence, compensation, or training.
