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The City of San Mateo Library Department is looking for a highly qualified Deputy City Librarian

Why Join our Department?

The San Mateo Public Library is a dynamic organization that serves as a vital resource and gathering place for the community. The Main Library functions as the cultural center of the City, offering extensive programs and services, while the Hillsdale and Marina branches provide convenient neighborhood access and additional resources for a diverse set of library patrons.

The Library recently adopted a new Strategic Plan that will guide its priorities and initiatives over the next three years. This is an exciting time to join the organization and contribute to its continued growth and innovation.

The Position

The City of San Mateo is seeking a qualified and experienced Deputy City Librarian to serve in a key leadership role within the Library Department. Reporting to the City Librarian, the Deputy City Librarian acts as the Library’s chief operating officer and directly supervises division managers overseeing Children’s/Literacy Services, Information Services, and Circulation/Technical Services. The Deputy City Librarian also plays a lead role in cross-divisional project management, operational oversight, strategic plan implementation, and in representing the Library at meetings and public events.

This position requires a balance of operational excellence, strategic thinking, and strong people-centered leadership. The Deputy City Librarian helps ensure the delivery of high-quality library services while cultivating a positive, inclusive, and responsive workplace culture.

• The ideal candidate will possess:
• A collaborative, thoughtful, and pragmatic leadership style.
• Strong discernment and empathy when working with staff, partners, and the public.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• A commitment to public service and to advancing equity, access, and inclusion.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex library operations and multi-functional teams.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving and decision-making.
• A strong track record of successfully leading or contributing to strategic initiatives.
• The ability to build trust, navigate change, and foster a supportive work environment.

Examples of Duties - Duties may include but are not limited to, the following:

• Prioritizes work of staff; develops and trains staff; conducts performance evaluations; approves actions regarding hiring, promoting, and disciplining; and approves recommendations on all employee actions.
• Reviews changes in laws, regulations, and guidelines for their effect upon Library activities; evaluates the effect of such changes, and recommends and implements changes to policies and procedures as required for compliance.
• Assumes management responsibility for all daily operations, departments, programs, and services of the Library.
• Manages and participates in the development and implementation of goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for assigned services including human resources administration, library development, library service plan, outreach and marketing and is involved in the planning, implementing, and managing of new technologies.
• Monitors and evaluates the efficiency, effectiveness and quality of service delivery methods and procedures for the department.
• Reviews the work plan for the Supervising Librarians and Supervising Library Assistant; meets with each to identify and resolve problems.
• Negotiates and resolves significant and controversial issues.
• Conducts meetings and makes presentations; functions as the Library’s project manager for special projects as assigned;
• Assists in the coordination of library activities with other City departments and outside agencies.
• May participate in the delivery of library services.
• Be a community liaison and lead in fundraising relating to service outreach and marketing.
• Assists in the preparation of the annual budget for the library; estimates staffing, equipment, and supply needs based upon recent trends and planned activities; monitors monthly expenditures after budget adoption; oversees disposition of surplus materials; and approves purchase requisitions.
• Prepares a variety of reports and correspondence; reviews internal policies and procedures; develops content for press releases and other material for dissemination to the public.
• Represents the City and Library in the community, within the Peninsula Library System, and at professional meetings and committees, as necessary.
• Responds to citizen inquiries; investigates and resolves patron complaints and concerns; applies the principles of good customers service and instills it in staff members.

The San Mateo County Libraries are looking for qualified candidates for the position of Contract Administrator I/II. 

We’re seeking a detail-oriented and proactive professional who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. If you're excited about improving systems, supporting community-serving programs, and ensuring operational excellence, this is a great opportunity to join an award-winning, forward-thinking organization.

As a Contract Administrator, you will coordinate and manage the Libraries' contracts systems, working closely with division managers, vendors, and department leadership to ensure smooth and compliant procurement and contracting processes. This includes developing competitive processes; preparing negotiating, monitoring, and amending contracts; managing service provider relationships; developing internal resources to ease procurement processes; and monitoring vendor spending to ensure compliance with the Libraries' procurement policy. 

Working under the direction of the Library Finance Manager, you’ll help advance systemwide initiatives, strengthen vendor partnerships, and support innovative programs that directly impact our communities. This role offers the opportunity to combine strong analytical skills with mission-driven work in a library system committed to equity, innovation, and excellence.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
Contract Administrator I is the entry and first working level class in the Contract Administrator series. Initially, under close supervision, incumbents perform basic contract administration duties while learning County and programmatic policies, procedures, and guidelines. As experience is gained, there is greater independence of action within established guidelines. This class is flexibly staffed with the Contract Administrator II and incumbents may advance to the higher level after gaining experience and demonstrating proficiency, which meets the qualifications of the higher-level class.

Contract Administrator II is the fully experienced, journey-level class in this series, capable of independently performing the full range of contract administration duties. Employees are normally given substantial latitude in determining approach, procedures, systems, and methods in accomplishing the work goals. They make basic programmatic decisions that require the exercise of independent judgment and are responsible for coordinating multiple functions or processes. Incumbents at this level are typically assigned the more complex contracts.

 

The ideal candidate will demonstrate the ability to:

• Support and/or lead complex procurement processes by applying knowledge of spending thresholds and competitive requirements, and County policies.
• Draft clear and comprehensive purchasing documents, including scopes of work, contracts, and amendments.
• Monitor and coordinate workflows for multiple contracts and competitive processes, ensuring timely progress and attention to detail.
• Analyze vendor data, synthesize reports, and identify areas requiring follow-up or escalation.
• Create tools and resources to support staff in adopting policies, including initiatives like the Library’s Small Business First Policy.
• Leverage procurement platforms like Coupa to streamline purchasing, including use of punchouts, write-in tabs, and catalogs.
• Administer purchasing systems by coordinating user access, maintaining system settings, and resolving technical issues.
• Communicate clearly and professionally across teams to provide support, answer questions, and help resolve contract-related issues.
• Apply sound judgment to categorize procurement activity and ensure alignment with applicable policies and procedures.
• Collaborate across teams to support financial system transitions, vendor coordination, and invoice documentation requirements 

Examples Of Duties

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: 

• Coordinate the full lifecycle of contract development and amendments in collaboration with division managers, including drafting scopes of work, facilitating formal competitive processes, securing approvals, and maintaining comprehensive contract files.
• Provide technical guidance on procurement requirements and thresholds.
• Ensure compliance with insurance, credentials, service plans, and payment schedules.
• Conduct quarterly vendor monitoring through OFAS report analysis and escalate findings to management.
• Support adoption of Library procurement policies and tools, including Small Business First and Coupa features.
• Serve as Coupa Admin to manage backend settings (e.g., user access, chart of accounts, commodities) and support staff with troubleshooting.
• Monitor contracts and procurement transactions to ensure accuracy, compliance, and timely completion.
• Assist with the transition to invoice automation, including vendor communication and documentation of invoice support.
• Review, authorize, and manage contract payments and invoices.
• Provide training, technical assistance, and consultation to staff and partners.
• Maintain current knowledge of contract and procurement regulations.
• Develop RFPs, competitive solicitations, and agreements in line with organizational goals.
• Represent the Libraries at meetings and committees as needed.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:
Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to qualify is:

Contract Administrator I:  Two years of professional-level administrative or programmatic experience, primarily in the area of contract administration in a community services or related setting.  

Contract Administrator II:  Four years of professional-level administrative or programmatic experience, primarily in the area of contract administration in a community services or related setting.
 

Knowledge of: 

• Principles and practices of public administration.
• Principles and practices of the program areas to which assigned.
• Principles and practices of contract development, negotiation, and monitoring, including budgeting and financial record keeping.
• Principles, practices, and techniques of administrative and programmatic research and analysis. 
• Applicable federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations, and County and program policies and guidelines. 
• Computer applications related to the work. 
• Office administrative practices and procedures, including records management and the operation of standard office equipment.

Skill/Ability to:

• Develop and evaluate proposals and negotiate contracts and agreements.
• Develop, monitor, and analyze budgets and program performance.
• Plan, coordinate, and implement administrative and programmatic research and analysis. 
• Analyze, interpret, and apply various regulations and requirements.
• Train staff in work procedures and provide technical and programmatic assistance to staff and subcontractors.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with grantors, subcontractors, County staff, elected and appointed officials, the public, and others.
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Compile, analyze, and interpret data using research techniques; draw sound conclusions and prepare and present effective reports regarding findings and recommendations. 
• Exercise sound independent judgment within general policy and regulatory guidelines.
• Prepare clear and accurate reports, correspondence, procedures, and other written materials.
• Organize and prioritize work and meet critical deadlines.
• Maintain accurate records and files.

Application/Examination

Open & Promotional. Anyone may apply. Current County of San Mateo and County of San Mateo Superior Court of California employees with at least six months (1040 hours) of continuous service in a classified regular, probationary, or extra-help/limited term position prior to the final filing date will receive five points added to their final passing score.

Responses to the supplemental questions must be submitted in addition to our regular employment application form. A resume will not be accepted as a substitute for the required employment application and supplemental questionnaire.

The examination process will consist of an application screening based on the candidates' application and responses to the supplemental questions (weight: pass/fail). Candidates who pass the application screening may be invited to a panel interview (weight: 100%). Depending on the number of applicants, an application appraisal of education and experience may be used in place of other examinations or further evaluation of work experience may be conducted to group applicants by level of qualification. Applicants meeting the minimum qualifications are not guaranteed advancement through any subsequent phase of the examination. All examinations will be given in San Mateo County, California and applicants must participate at their own expense.

IMPORTANT: Applications for this position will only be accepted online. If you are currently on the County's website, you may click the "Apply" button. If you are not on the County's website, please go to http://jobs.smcgov.org to apply.

TENTATIVE RECRUITMENT SCHEDULE
Final Filing Date: Wednesday, May 28, 2025, by 11:59 PM PST
Application Screening: June 2 - 6, 2025
Civil Service Panel Interviews: June 13, 2025

We’re looking for a creative and organized professional to take on the role of Senior Library Assistant. You will join a fast-paced, dynamic team environment, providing youth focused services within the Youth, Bookmobile and Collections Division. This position receives direction from Senior Librarian, may exercise direct supervision over other assigned office support staff and builds relationships throughout the organization. If you are looking to bring your knowledge of youth literature and strong administrative skills to directly impact library customers and staff, this position is for you. Review our detailed job description here.

 

What You'll Do:

• Provide administrative support to all those in Division.
• Promote library services at outreach and bookmobile events as assigned.
• Answer reader’s advisory and general reference questions for a wide range of youth literature, resources andmaterials.
• Use planning, analytical, and technical skills to work on special projects.
• Support library events and programs.
• Work with library team to provide a safe and welcoming environment
• Support of safety protocols.
• Work both independently and with a team to accomplish goals.

 

The Essentials:

Senior Library Assistant

• Two years of experience performing paraprofessional or technical duties in a library setting equivalent to a Library Assistant II or Library Technician in the City of Mountain View.
• Education equivalent to an associate of arts degree.

Bonus Points:

• May need to possess a valid California Class C Driver License as required by the position.
• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university is highly desirable.
• Bi-lingual skills in Spanish, Chinese or Russian.

 

Are We a Match?

• You thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• You are adaptable, flexible and offer solutions in ambiguous situations.
• You possess solid knowledge of youth literature.
• You bring a creative mindset and are open to taking on new ideas and skills.
• You enjoy solving administrative tasks and balance your time efficiently.
• You’re able to pivot priorities and can anticipate customer and staff needs.
• You value continuous learning as a team practice and contributing to a collaborative environment.
• You enjoy resolving administrative challenges.
• You are organized, detail-oriented and organized and can manage multiple, varying processes and tasks.
• You bring patient, compassionate and friendly customer service and enjoy working with customers of all backgrounds and ages.

LIBRARIAN I/II

Level I:  $6,716 - $8,163 per month

Level II:  $7,055 - $8,575 per month

Plus excellent benefits

 

 

APPLICATION DEADLINE:  Apply by Wednesday, May 21, 2025,  at 5:00 pm

 

THE CITY is focused on enhancing our community members’ quality of life through well-designed services and a positive workplace culture. San Rafael is the economic and cultural heart of Marin County, and its high quality of life is centered on its commercial districts, engaged neighborhoods, active lifestyle, and natural environment. San Rafael, with a population of approximately 60,000, is a full-service city with a City Council/City Manager form of government with 12 departments, more than 400 employees, and a fiscal year 2024-2025 annual budget of approximately $180 million. The City’s vision is to be a vibrant economic and cultural center reflective of its diversity. The City Council is engaged and seeks to strengthen the urban and commercial areas as well as sustain the beautiful natural environment. 

San Rafael’s Organizational culture framework is an initiative called “Together San Rafael.” City employees are our greatest asset, and we seek talented individuals with diverse backgrounds who are creative, curious, and excited about a challenge. We are a results-driven team focused on the needs of community members. The Together San Rafael initiative is focused on modernizing City services and increasing the engagement of employees. This initiative recognizes the interconnectedness of the customer and employee experience. 

 

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT

The Library and Recreation Department is comprised of two divisions, Library and Recreation & Childcare, that are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of San Rafael residents. The Department’s mission is to enrich the community through discovery, learning, and play, and strives to maximize the delivery of strategically aligned programs and services to provide the highest value for the community.

The Library Division operates with a $4.4 million budget and 22 full-time employees in fiscal year 2024/2025. The San Rafael Public Library consists of three branches—Downtown, Pickleweed, and Northgate—and is part of the MARINet consortium. Exciting projects include a $3 million modernization of the Downtown branch, set for completion by July 2025, and a $2 million renovation of the Pickleweed branch, with construction beginning in August 2025. Additionally, the City is planning a new, joint Library and Community Center at Albert Park, while also focusing on operational improvements and championing innovative library programs and services.

THE POSITION

The Librarian I/II will perform varied professional library work, including collection development of library materials; development of library services, programs, outreach, and marketing; technical services work; and assisting patrons with basic and complex informational requests.  The Librarian I/II will be proficient with library systems.  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Including but not limited to)

This list is meant to be representative, not exhaustive.  CLICK HERE for the full job description.

• Provide a range of services to patrons, including complex reference and readers' advisory; circulation and patron account requests; and advanced assistance with accessing library materials, technology, and resources.
• Maintain awareness of emerging trends in technology, reference services, and librarianship.
• Participate in the development, implementation, and evaluation of library programs, events, volunteers, and services.
• Organize and lead outreach visits outside the library at events and to community partners to present and promote library services.
• May evaluate, select, and order books and media items for one or m ore collection areas in the library, and evaluate items for withdrawal from the library collection.
• Support and provide content for the development and implementation of marketing strategies.  
• May provide direction, training, and support to paraprofessional staff in one or more of the following areas:  collection development, circulation, technical services, programs and services, events, outreach, and marketing.
• Follow all safety rules and protocols; take appropriate action as required to identify and correct techniques and practices and report safety and security concerns in a timely and appropriate manner to their supervisor.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Any combination equivalent to experience and education that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities would be qualifying.  A typical way of gaining the knowledge, skill and ability outlined  in the job spec is:  

Librarian I:  

• This is the entry-level in the professional librarian series.

Librarian II:  

• Two years of professional library experience at the Librarian I level or equivalent is required

For Both Levels:

• Ability to communicate effectively in Spanish, Vietnamese, ASL, or other community languages is desired, and may be required for some assignments.
• Equivalent to a master's degree in library science, library and information services, or similar curriculum, issued by a college or university accredited by the American Library Association is preferred.  
• Progressively responsible-related experience may be substituted for the college coursework on a year-for-year basis.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• While possession of a valid California Class C Driver's License is not required, incumbents may need to report to different job sites and travel to offsite outreach, events, etc.  
• Ability to report to different locations during the workday to perform the essential functions of the position may be required. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.  the employee is occasionally required to climb or balance; stoop, kneel crouch, or crawl and smell.  The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, and ability to adjust focus.  

SENIOR LIBRARIAN

The City of San Rafael is looking to fill three (3) Senior Librarian positions with this recruitment.

$7,761 - $9,433 per month

Plus excellent benefits

 

 

APPLICATION DEADLINE:  Apply by Wednesday, May 21, 2025,  at 5:00 pm

 

THE CITY is focused on enhancing our community members’ quality of life through well-designed services and a positive workplace culture. San Rafael is the economic and cultural heart of Marin County, and its high quality of life is centered on its commercial districts, engaged neighborhoods, active lifestyle, and natural environment. San Rafael, with a population of approximately 60,000, is a full-service city with a City Council/City Manager form of government with 12 departments, more than 400 employees, and a fiscal year 2024-2025 annual budget of approximately $180 million. The City’s vision is to be a vibrant economic and cultural center reflective of its diversity. The City Council is engaged and seeks to strengthen the urban and commercial areas as well as sustain the beautiful natural environment. 

San Rafael’s Organizational culture framework is an initiative called “Together San Rafael.” City employees are our greatest asset, and we seek talented individuals with diverse backgrounds who are creative, curious, and excited about a challenge. We are a results-driven team focused on the needs of community members. The Together San Rafael initiative is focused on modernizing City services and increasing the engagement of employees. This initiative recognizes the interconnectedness of the customer and employee experience. 

 

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT

The Library and Recreation Department is comprised of two divisions, Library and Recreation & Childcare, that are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of San Rafael residents. The Department’s mission is to enrich the community through discovery, learning, and play, and strives to maximize the delivery of strategically aligned programs and services to provide the highest value for the community.

The Library Division operates with a $4.4 million budget and 22 full-time employees in fiscal year 2024/2025. The San Rafael Public Library consists of three branches—Downtown, Pickleweed, and Northgate—and is part of the MARINet consortium. Exciting projects include a $3 million modernization of the Downtown branch, set for completion by July 2025, and a $2 million renovation of the Pickleweed branch, with construction beginning in August 2025. Additionally, the City is planning a new, joint Library and Community Center at Albert Park, while also focusing on operational improvements and championing innovative library programs and services.

THE POSITION

The Senior Librarian is responsible for a full range of complex librarian duties including classification; cataloging; reference; readers advisory; collection development; program planning, development, and evaluation; outreach and marketing; and service to specialized populations including youth, adults, and/or non-English speaking individuals.  

IDEAL CANDIDATE

We are seeking three dedicated and experienced Senior Librarians to oversee key areas within our library system.  Each Senior Librarian will be responsible for one of the following units:  Children's Services, Adult/Teen Services, or Branch Services.  The ideal candidate will have a solid background in library operations, including collection development, reference services, program planning, and community outreach.  Proven leadership skills are essential, with experience in supervising and training professional and paraprofessional staff while maintaining high service standards.  Expertise in reference services, library technologies, and creating programs for diverse populations, including youth and non-English speakers, will be crucial in meeting the evolving needs of our community.

The ideal candidate will be passionate about providing exceptional library services and fostering a collaborative, supportive work environment.  Strong reference and reader's advisory skills, a deep understanding of modern library practices, and the ability to effectively evaluate and select library materials are key.  A commitment to cultural competence, customer service excellence, and creating a safe, welcoming space for all patrons is vital.  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Including but not limited to)

This list is meant to be representative, not exhaustive.  CLICK HERE for the full job description.

• Supervise and train assigned subordinate staff; assign, schedule and review staff work and write performance evaluations for professional and paraprofessional staff; instruct employees in new or existing policies, procedures and regulations; conduct on-the-job training.  
• Provide direction, training, and support to staff in one or more of the following areas:  collection development, programs and services, events, outreach, and marketing.
• Provide a range of services to patrons, including complex reference and readers' advisory; circulation and patron account requests; and advanced assistance with accessing library materials, technology, and resources.
• Assist in the development of policies and procedures relating to library services.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate library programs, events, volunteers, and services.
• Organize and lead outreach visits outside the library at events and to community partners to present and promote library services.
• Assist with the administration and organization of core library services, planning, organizing, and coordinating library-wide activities.
• Enforce library guidelines and policies to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all library visitors.

 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Any combination equivalent to experience and education that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities would be qualifying.  A typical way of gaining the knowledge, skill and ability outlined  in the job spec is:  

• Equivalent to a master's degree in library science, library and information services, or similar curriculum, issued by a college or university accredited by the American Library Association is preferred.  
• Progressively responsible related experience may be substituted for the college coursework on a year-for-year basis.
• Ability to communicate effectively in Spanish, Vietnamese, ASL, or other community languages is desired, and may be required for some assignments., AND
• At least four years of professional experience in a public library setting, including at least one year in a lead/supervisory role.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Possession of a valid California Class C Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record is desirable.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.  the employee is occasionally required to climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.  The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus.