Librarian III – Specialist - Archivist/Curator

Under general supervision, is responsible for a specialty library function or service requiring in-depth knowledge of specialized subject area, collection, function, or service for the Detroit Public Library (DPL); responsible for the day-to-day administration and oversight of the specialty collection, function, or service; and participates in and supports organizational goals, policies, and guidelines.

To apply, submit a completed resume with cover letter to dplrecruitment@detroitpubliclibrary.org

APPLICATIONS MUST BE SUBMITTED TO THE HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICE BY 4:00 p.m., May 4th, 2026

Under general supervision, is responsible for a specialty library function or service requiring in-depth knowledge of specialized subject area, collection, function, or service for the Detroit Public Library (DPL); responsible for the day-to-day administration and oversight of the specialty collection, function, or service; and participates in and supports organizational goals, policies, and guidelines.

Works under the general supervision of assigned Library – coordinator or manager; and does exercise supervisory responsibility.

This is third in a series of three in the Librarian job series. It is distinguished from the Librarian II in that incumbents in this classification exist to assist with supervision and administration of the day-to-day operation of a branch or main library department or program, including directing the work of lower level library and clerical staff. Incumbents may also lead or coordinate one or more system-wide library programs. Incumbents have considerable latitude in the application of professional practices in the assigned area of responsibility. Progression from Librarian II to Librarian III requires four years of full-time professional library experience.

Education and Experience:

Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science from an ALA accredited institution and four years of professional library experience in specialty function or area of assignment, including one year of supervisory/lead responsibility over staff and/or programs; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Required Licenses or Certifications:

Must possess a valid State of Michigan Driver’s License.

Certifications Preferred:

Level I Librarian Certification by the State of Michigan.

Required Knowledge of:

• Advanced principles and practices of library science.
• Principles and techniques of library materials selection and cataloging in specialty program area of assignment.
• Dewey Decimal system, the alphabetical systems of shelving, and computer searching techniques.
• Books, publishing, the book trade, and book review media.
• Reference tools and services.
• Automated library information retrieval system. Reference and circulation processes and procedures.
• Understanding of different classification schemes for library materials.
• Significant authors, associations and publishers of books and reference sources in the assigned field.
• Project/program planning and management principles and practices.
• Public and community relations principles and practices.
• Other pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
• Modern office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and computer applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and statistical databases.
• Public library operations, services, and policies.
• Customer service standards and procedures.
• Supervisory principles, practices, and methods.
• ARC, MARC expertise in bibliographic/cataloging
• Interacting with people of different social, economic, and ethnic backgrounds.
• Analyzing, evaluating, and appropriately selecting popular level library materials in specialty program area of assignment. Researching and finding answers to complex reference questions.
• Managing and administering the coordination of the development and maintenance of library collections.
• Selecting materials and collections of contemporary significance and of permanent value.
• Command of all reference tools used.
• Library research techniques, including the use of technology.
• Database records management.
• Problem solving and decision-making.
• Program design and development.
• Presenting ideas and concepts orally and in writing.
• Working cooperatively with internal and external customers in a professional, friendly and cooperative manner.
• Responding to inquiries in effective oral and written communications.
• Utilizing personal computer software programs affecting assigned work and in compiling and preparing spreadsheets and reports.
• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with Library and department staff, board members, outside agencies, and the general public.
• Supervising, leading, and delegating tasks and authority.

Physical Demands / Work Environment:

• Work is performed in a standard library environment.
• Subject to sitting, standing, walking, stair climbing, reaching, and lifting of objects up to 25 pounds.
• Must be able to push/pull library carts and lift/carry library materials.