Systems Librarian

Job Description

Job Description

WHITMAN COLLEGE

Located in the historic community of Walla Walla, Whitman’s vibrant and beautiful tree-lined campus is home to an intellectually diverse, dynamic, welcoming and supportive community of some 500 staff and faculty serving approximately 1,500 students from the local region and across the globe. With exceptional students, accomplished faculty and staff, and a fiercely loyal and growing number of engaged alumni, Whitman College continues to build on its national reputation for academic excellence as one of the top liberal arts colleges in the country.

 

Whitman College is cultivating a community built on inclusion and belonging. We recognize the value of those who can offer historically underrepresented perspectives and encourage applications from those whose background, knowledge, and insights from lived experience can add to the college’s working and learning environment. Whitman College is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer (EEO).

POSITION PURPOSE

The Systems Librarian leads the development and support of technology solutions that advance the Library’s mission, ensuring systems and digital resources effectively support research, teaching, and learning. The Systems Librarian collaborates with campus IT and serves as the library's representative to the Orbis Cascade Alliance. This position plays a key role in fostering an inclusive library environment by leveraging technology to enhance accessibility, ensure equitable access to resources, and support the diverse needs of Whitman College's community. This position reports to the College Librarian and participates in library planning and decision-making.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

Technology & Systems Administration (50%)

• Administer, maintain, and support technologies that advance library services and enhance research, teaching, and learning. 
• Oversee the library website, implement new software/tools/applications, and provide technical support for the Alma/Primo Integrated Library System (ILS), interlibrary loan services, resource sharing, library instruction, and digital projects.
• Manage library systems, troubleshoot issues, upgrade applications, and maintain technology.
• Configure, maintain, and troubleshoot library systems (e.g., ILS, OCLC platforms, ILLiad) and evaluate emerging technologies for library services.
• Collaborate with the Digital Services Team to maintain the institutional repository and other digital platforms.
• Develop and maintain documentation for library systems, manage technology replacement schedules, and document system implementation decisions.

Collaboration & Communication (20%)

• Collaborate with library and campus staff to improve resource access, borrowing, and research workflows.
• Partner with Campus IT (WCTS) to implement technical solutions supporting library operations.
• Serve as the primary contact for library systems vendors and providers, including Ex Libris, OCLC, Orbis Cascade Alliance, Springshare, Third Iron, and other local vendors.
• Work with stakeholders, WCTS, and Orbis Cascade Alliance members to achieve shared goals and support equitable access to resources.
• Communicate effectively, assess issues, propose solutions, and ensure project success.

Training & Support (15%)

• Support librarians in enhancing library instruction and research services.
• Deliver training for staff on key technologies, including OpenURL linking, discovery systems, and database management.
• Provide guidance and support to ensure effective use of library systems and digital tools.

User Experience & Service Improvement (10%)

• Design and improve services using user-centered approaches.
• Enhance website accessibility and ensure ADA compliance.

Professional Development & Other Responsibilities (5%)

• Engage in professional associations and development activities aligned with the library’s mission.
• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned in alignment with college priorities.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

Must be able to explain and/or demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skills, and abilities to safely perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation. Specifically,

• Knowledge of library systems and technologies, including integrated library systems, discovery platforms, and related applications used to support access to information resources.
• Ability to positively and actively contribute to the college’s core values of diversity, equity, inclusion, antiracism and access. 
• Ability to configure, maintain, troubleshoot, and support library technologies and digital platforms.
• Familiarity with web technologies, content management systems, and web accessibility principles.
• Understanding of user-centered approaches to service design and accessibility.
• Ability to manage projects, coordinate with multiple stakeholders, and document processes and decisions.
• Strong analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with faculty, students, and colleagues from diverse backgrounds in ways that support equity and inclusion.
• Ability to assess user needs, provide training, communicate technical concepts effectively, and engage in ongoing professional development and continuous learning.

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Familiarity with cybersecurity principles and data privacy practices.
• Familiarity with metadata standards and protocols, including MARC 21 and Dublin Core.
• Awareness of emerging technologies and trends affecting academic libraries.
• Interest in developing additional technical skills and adapting to evolving technologies.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• ALA-accredited MLIS degree or an equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant experience.
• Experience supporting library systems, discovery platforms, or related technologies.
• Experience collaborating with colleagues, vendors, or IT partners to support library services.
• Demonstrated commitment to accessibility, inclusive service, and equitable access to information.
• Demonstrated ability to learn new technologies and adapt to evolving organizational needs. 
• OR a combination of relevant education, training, and experience. 

 

Whitman College values diverse pathways to acquiring skills and knowledge and encourages applicants to demonstrate how their background aligns with the role.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with library systems and services such as Alma/Primo, OCLC platforms, ILLiad, Springshare products, BrowZine/LibKey, or comparable systems and technologies. 
• Experience maintaining websites using content management systems such as WordPress or Drupal.
• Experience with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, or related web technologies.
• Experience conducting user experience or usability studies.
• Experience with cloud-based or SaaS library platforms.
• Experience working in academic libraries or consortial environments.
• Familiarity with Linux environments or scripting tools.

Please note that while the description details both required and preferred qualifications, we want applicants to be aware that they do not need to have all of the preferred qualifications to be considered for this position. If you meet the minimum qualifications and have passion for the work, you are encouraged to apply.

BENEFITS 

Whitman College offers a competitive benefits program that is designed to attract qualified candidates and retain talented employees. Benefit offerings and eligibility described reflect current offerings and may be subject to change in accordance with College policies and plan documents. Full-time employees enjoy the following benefits:

Medical/Dental/Vision Insurances.

Basic life, accidental death and dismemberment and long term disability insurances with the capability to elect additional voluntary coverage.

403(b) Defined Contribution Retirement Plan with a matching contribution after eligibility requirements are met.

Paid Time Off: 20 accrued vacation days, 12 accrued sick days, 13 paid holidays.

Tuition Remission – Dependent Children

Employee tuition waiver for two Whitman courses per semester.

Employee Assistance Program

Relocation assistance for eligible employees. 

 

Learn more about benefits eligibility here. 

DISABILITY ACCOMMODATION FOR JOB CANDIDATES

Contact Human Resources regarding requests for disability accommodation in the employment application process.

APPLICATION REVIEW

Application review will begin on July 20, 2026, and continue until the position is filled. 

START DATE

October 2026