Library Technology Specialist

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 Library Technology Specialist is responsible for identifying, implementing, and supporting technology that improves the Library’s services. Key duties include managing library systems, maintaining technology, troubleshooting, upgrading applications, and training staff. The role also involves overseeing the library website, implementing new software/tools/applications, providing technical support for the Alma/PrimoIntegrated Library System (ILS), resource sharing, interlibrary loan services, library instructions, and digital projects. The Specialist collaborates with campus IT and serves as the library's representative to the Orbis Cascade Alliance. Strong analytical and communication skills, along with knowledge of library systems and technology, are essential. 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 also participates in library planning and decision-making.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Collaborate with library and campus staff to enhance resource access, borrowing, and research practices. Configure, maintain, and troubleshoot library systems (e.g., ILS, OCLC platforms, ILLiad) while evaluating new technologies for library services. Work with Campus IT (WCTS) to implement solutions that support library operations. Manage the library website and instructional technologies.
• Work alongside librarians to enhance library instruction and research support. Facilitate training for library staff on essential technologies, including OpenURL linking, discovery systems, and database management.
• Design and improve services using user-centered approaches, enhance website accessibility, and ensure ADA compliance.
• Act as the primary contact for library systems vendors and providers, including Ex Libris, OCLC, the Orbis Cascade Alliance, Springshare, Third Iron, and other local systems vendors.
• Collaborate with the Digital Services Team to support the institutional repository and manage other digital platforms.
• Develop and maintain documentation for library systems, including the ILS, ILLiad and other software/applications/tools/platforms maintained by the library. Manage technology replacement schedules and document decisions on system implementation.
• Work with library stakeholders, WCTS, and Orbis Cascade Alliance members to achieve shared goals, and support equitable access to resources, ensuring that all users, regardless of background or ability, can fully engage with the library's offerings.s. Provide training where needed, communicate effectively with stakeholders, understand issues, propose solutions, and ensure project success.
• Engage in professional associations and development activities aligned with the library's mission.
• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned.

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 applications, including Integrated Library Systems (ILS), interlibrary loan software (e.g., ILLiad), and discovery systems (e.g., Alma/Primo, OCLC platforms). Proficiency in web design and development technologies, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, and experience with content management systems (CMS) such as WordPress or Drupal. Familiarity with web accessibility standards (WCAG) and SEO best practices.
• Ability to configure, maintain, and troubleshoot library systems while evaluating and implementing new technologies. Experience managing digital platforms and collaborating with IT teams to support library technology needs.
• Strong understanding of user-centered approaches to service design, particularly in enhancing the accessibility and usability of the library’s website and digital tools, ensuring ADA compliance.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and coordinate with various stakeholders, including vendors (e.g., Ex Libris, Springshare), campus IT, and library consortia (e.g., Orbis Cascade Alliance). Ability to balance multiple responsibilities, meet deadlines, and document decisions effectively.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of working independently and collaboratively with faculty, students, and library staff from diverse backgrounds in ways that support equity and inclusion. Ability to assess needs and deliver technology training, engage with stakeholders, and present solutions clearly.
• Strong analytical skills for diagnosing and resolving technical issues related to library systems, digital collections, and other platforms.
• Demonstrated ability to positively contribute to the College’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism, particularly through technology solutions that promote equitable access and representation.
• Eagerness to engage in professional development activities, staying current with emerging technologies and trends in library services.

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Willingness to adapt to evolving technologies and continuously improve technical skills.
• Understanding of cybersecurity practices, including data privacy and security protocols.
• Familiarity with national standards for library systems (e.g., MARC 21, Dublin Core) and related protocols.
• Knowledge of current technology trends in libraries and the ability to apply them to support the Library's mission.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology or a related field with at least one year of experience, OR an Associate degree with two years of experience, OR equivalent qualifications with a minimum of two years of relevant experience.
• Proficiency in contemporary web design and front-end development, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP. Familiarity with responsive design frameworks, content management systems (e.g., WordPress, Drupal), and web accessibility standards (WCAG). Understanding of SEO best practices, basic back-end development, and performance optimization techniques.
• Experience addressing usability and ADA compliance through user-centered design, particularly in library settings.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) with at least one year of experience in technology.
• Experience managing an Integrated Library System (ILS) and its front-end interface, along with other library software such as ILLiad, EzProxy, Springshare products, and BrowZine/LibKey.
• Experience with Angular, Linux servers, and other web development tools.
• Experience conducting user experience (UX) or usability studies.
• Experience with cloud-based platforms, particularly SaaS applications for library management systems like Ex Libris Alma/Primo, with in-depth knowledge of Ex Libris systems.
• Experience with mobile and responsive web design to optimize user experience across devices.

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. 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 10% 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 benefit to 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 February 3, 2025 and continue until the position is filled. 

START DATE

April 1, 2025

Salary : $60,000 - $70,000