Digital Service Librarian

Lsslibraries; Beltsville (MD); Hybrid; USD 68,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)

Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)

Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)

Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)

Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)

Short Term & Long-Term Disability

Training & Development

Job summary

A digital services organization is seeking an experienced Digital Services Librarian to manage and enhance digital library systems in Beltsville, Maryland. The role includes configuring library systems, optimizing user experience, and administering research databases. Candidates should have a Master's degree in Library Science and strong scripting skills. This position allows for remote work depending on project needs, offering a comprehensive benefits package including health care and retirement plans.

Qualifications

• Experience with APIs and data transformation tools.
• 3–5+ years of experience in digital library environments.
• Excellent communication and training skills.
• Experience with research databases and digital content platforms (PubAg).
• Strong scripting/programming skills in Python and JavaScript.
• Familiarity with APIs, data transformation tools, and metadata workflows (MARC, JSON, XML).
• Knowledge of UI/UX principles and WCAG accessibility.

Responsibilities

• Configure and manage library systems including Ex Libris Alma.
• Administer research databases for content delivery.
• Design and configure UI components for library platforms.
• Monitor performance, troubleshoot and coordinate with IT vendors.
• Design UI components to enhance usability and accessibility of platforms.
• Develop scripts to automate workflows and integrate APIs.
• Provide end‑user support and training materials for system use.
• Collaborate with digital initiatives to align platforms with goals.

Skills

Scripting skills in Python

JavaScript programming

UI/UX design understanding

Customer service

Analytical skills

End-user support

Education

Master’s degree in Library and Information Science

Tools

Ex Libris Alma

Ex Libris Primo

PubAg

Symplectic Elements

Job description

Description

LAC Federal is seeking an experienced Digital Services Librarian. The Librarian will play a critical role in the configuration, management, and enhancement of digital library systems and research databases. This role emphasizes user interface (UI) design, user experience (UX) optimization, systems configuration, scripting automation, and direct user support. The Digital Librarian will administer key platforms including PubAg, Ex Libris Alma, Ex Libris Primo, Symplectic Elements (Research Management Software) and other digital tools that support discovery, access, and research workflows.

This position may be performed remotely or onsite in Beltsville, Maryland, depending on project needs.

Responsibilities

• Configure and manage library systems, including Ex Libris Alma and Primo; optimize workflows, cataloging parameters, discovery layers, and integrations.
• Administer and support research databases for content delivery and database services.
• Provide ongoing management of Symplectic Elements or similar research information management systems (RIMS).
• Monitor system performance, troubleshoot issues, and coordinate with vendors and IT to resolve system‑level challenges.
• Participate in system upgrades, testing, and quality assurance.
• Design and configure UI components and user‑focused interfaces within library platforms to enhance usability and accessibility.
• Conduct usability testing and recommend enhancements to navigation, search behaviour, and interface layouts.
• Work with stakeholders to gather UI/UX requirements for digital services.
• Use scripting languages such as Python, JavaScript, and other relevant languages (e.g., Bash, SQL) to automate workflows, configure interfaces, transform data, and enhance system functionality.
• Develop scripts for batch processes, API integrations, metadata manipulation, and custom system behaviours.
• Ensure data integrity, metadata quality, and system consistency across digital platforms.
• Provide direct support to end‑users, including librarians, researchers, and administrative staff.
• Develop and deliver training materials and workshops on system use, advanced search techniques, and custom features.
• Create documentation, FAQs, knowledge‑base entries, and “how‑to” guides.
• Collaborate with digital initiatives teams to align library platforms with organisational goals.
• Track user feedback, performance metrics, and service analytics to inform upgrades and refinements.
• Stay current with emerging digital library trends, best practices, and tools.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an ALA‑accredited programme, or related field (e.g., Information Science, Informatics, Computer Science) with equivalent library experience.
• Proven experience administering library systems such as Ex Libris Alma and Primo.
• Experience working with research databases, discovery services, and digital content platforms (e.g., PubAg).
• Strong scripting/programming skills in Python and JavaScript/Java.
• Experience with APIs, data transformation tools, and metadata workflows (MARC, JSON, XML).
• Familiarity with research management systems such as Symplectic Elements or equivalents.
• Understanding of UI/UX principles, accessibility (WCAG), and web‑based systems configuration.
• 3–5+ years of experience working in digital library environments or academic/research library systems.
• Demonstrated experience configuring library platforms, supporting end‑users, and managing digital services.
• Experience creating scripts or automation tools to support system functions and data quality.
• Excellent communication and training skills.
• Customer‑focused with ability to work collaboratively.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving capabilities.
• Ability to work independently in an onsite environment and manage multiple priorities.

Physical Requirements

• Primarily sedentary work requiring extended periods of sitting and regular use of a computer, specialised library systems, and standard office equipment.
• Ability to review, analyse, and interpret technical and visual information on screens, including system interfaces, metadata records, and analytics.
• Occasional movement within the work environment and light lifting of up to 10 pounds (e.g., equipment peripherals, materials, or documentation).

Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Short Term & Long-Term Disability
• Training & Development

EEO Statement

The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.