Introduction
The Maryland State Library Agency (MSLA) ensures all Marylanders have access to outstanding services and welcoming, innovative spaces by administering state and federal funding, empowering library professionals through certification and training programs, and facilitating collaboration across public, school and academic libraries. The Deaf Culture Digital Library (DCDL), a division of MSLA, is the primary information center on deaf resources for library customers and staff in the State.
GRADE
22
LOCATION OF POSITION
Maryland State Library Agency Headquarters
25 South Charles Street
Suite 1310
Baltimore, MD 21201
POSITION DUTIES
The main purpose of this professional position is to oversee the functions and development of the Deaf Culture Digital Library (DCDL) as outlined in COMAR § 23-109. Duties outlined in COMAR include, but are not limited to:
● Conducting needs assessments, identifying and implementing responsive strategies;
● Developing and providing sensitivity training for State and county library staff to help them better understand deaf patrons and their needs;
● Developing a website that promotes information sharing and coordination between the Deaf Culture Digital Library and county library systems;
● Developing deaf-related programs and materials for all ages and sharing them with county library systems and other libraries in the State;
● Developing partnerships and strategic alliances with other entities including the Governor’s Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, the National Association of the Deaf, and the Maryland Association of the Deaf;
● Encouraging partnerships and collaborations with information service providers to help provide virtual access to information and research.
Primary responsibilities of this position are the administration and development of programs, training, resources and partnerships to increase awareness of deaf culture and services to libraries and communities throughout the state. This will be accomplished by partnering with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community and networks within the community, providing relevant and timely trainings, programs and marketing of resources.
The incumbent will be the lead employee or coordinator who manages the Deaf Culture Digital Library.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education: A Master’s degree or the equivalent of 36 credit hours of post-baccalaureate course work from an accredited college or university.
Experience: Five years of administrative or teaching experience in, or affiliated with, an education program, including two years of experience in coordinating or administering an education program or service directly related to serving Deaf and Hard of Hearing customers.
Notes:
1. Candidates may substitute two additional years of experience directly related to serving the Deaf and Hard of Hearing for the required education.
2. Candidates may substitute the possession of a Doctorate degree at an accredited college or university in a field related to the position for one year of the required experience.
3. Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a commissioned officer in Education Program classifications or Education Program specialty codes in the Education field of work on a year-for-year basis for the required experience and education.
DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Fluency in American Sign Language (ASL).
Two years combined work experience in, or affiliated with, community organizing, librarianship or education.
Experience creating professional training or public programming.
Experience in promoting services and resources.
Professional experience with collaboration and partnerships.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
This position is only for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing per COMAR, MD Education Code § 23-109, 8(c).
The selected candidate for this position shall be a deaf or hard-of-hearing individual and knowledgeable and experienced concerning issues affecting deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals
SELECTION PROCESS
Please make sure that you provide sufficient information on your application to show that you meet the qualifications for this recruitment. All information concerning your qualifications must be submitted by the closing date. We will not consider information submitted after this date. Successful candidates will be ranked as Best Qualified, Better Qualified, or Qualified and placed on the eligible (employment) list for at least one year.
EXAMINATION PROCESS
The assessment may consist of a rating of your education, training, and experience related to the requirements of the position. It is important that you provide complete and accurate information on your application. Please report all experience and education that is related to this position.
BENEFITS
FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS
Online applications are highly recommended. However, if you are unable to apply online, the paper application and supplemental questionnaire may be submitted to: Department of Budget and Management, Recruitment and Examination Division, 301 W. Preston St., Baltimore, MD 21201. Paper application materials must be received in our office by the closing date for the recruitment. No postmarks will be accepted.
For questions regarding this recruitment, please contact the DBM Recruitment and Examination Division at Application.Help@maryland.gov or 410-767-4850, MD TTY Relay Service 1-800-735-2258.
We thank our Veterans for their service to our country.
People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.
As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruitment, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity.
