The Anaheim Public Library is seeking an experienced and dynamic Principal Librarian to lead and coordinate specialized, complex, and advanced professional Mobile Library services including a Bookmobile and a STEAM Van. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing daily operations and delivering high-quality services across the Anaheim Community and local school Districts.
The Principal Librarian will supervise and support a team of professional and paraprofessional public service staff, ensuring excellent customer service, efficient workflows, and innovative programming. This position plays a critical role in fostering community engagement, promoting literacy, and supporting Library’s mission through collaboration.
Qualified candidates must possess a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS), Master of Library Science (MLS), or Master of Science in Library Science (MSLS) degree from an accredited college or university. A minimum of four (4) years of experience as a professional librarian, including qualifications and experience in a specialized subject area, or experience equivalent to two (2) years as a Senior Librarian.
Essential Functions
Below are the main duties of a Principal Librarian. You can review the full job description by clicking on this link.
Oversees a branch or major function of the Central Library Services such as Mobile Services, children’s services, and/or adult services, including system-wide reference services technology, and/or system-wide collection development of print and non-print materials.
Develops and implements a branch, Mobile Services or work unit service plan.
Develops, implements, and evaluates services and programs in a designated area such as branches, children’s services, adult services, literacy, outreach services, and special populations; coordinates joint projects with other Community Services Divisions and City Departments.
Resolves patron issues that have escalated to a second and third level (i.e., issues that were not resolved by a Librarian or Senior Librarian).
Oversees the collection development activities for one or more collection areas for the Division including materials selection and weeding, and donated materials.
Reviews, examines, selects, develops, maintains, promotes, and deselects materials in a variety of media formats to build a marketable Branch and/or Mobile Services collection that serves the needs and requests of a diverse community.
Responds to the most complex suggestions, requests, or concerns from library users and community members.
Creates volunteer and internship opportunities with the goal of involving students, adults with disabilities, and retired members of the community.
Provides leadership and serves as a subject matter expert in a designated area of specialized expertise and education.
Leads meetings, committees, or projects intended to enhance services or promote consistent policies and procedures.
Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.
IMPORTANT APPLICATION INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTION
Applications will be accepted until Friday, November 20, 2026, at 5:00PM. Applicants are encouraged to apply early. Applications will not be accepted after this deadline.
The selection process may include, but is not limited to, a skills assessment and oral interview.
The eligibility list established from this recruitment may also be used to fill the current and/or additional vacancies throughout the City.
Candidates must be specific and complete in describing their qualifications for this position. Failure to state all pertinent information may lead to elimination from consideration. Stating "See Resume" is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application.
The successful candidate will be required to undergo a reference / background check (to include a conviction record) and pass a post-offer pre-employment medical examination (which will include a drug/alcohol screening). The City of Anaheim utilizes E-Verify and new employees must provide documentation to establish both identity and work authorization.
Communication regarding your application and/or status will be sent to the email address listed on your application. Please check your email regularly throughout the recruitment process as you will not receive communications by any other method.
