Colorado Department of Revenue is hiring: Colorado State Librarian in Denver

Job Title

Colorado State Librarian

Department

Colorado Department of Education (CDE)

Job Summary

The Colorado State Librarian will lead all activities of the Colorado State Library (CSL) and set the vision for statewide library services. Responsibilities include strategic planning, budget management, policy development, collaboration with libraries and educational partners, and advocacy on behalf of librarians at the state and national level.

Work Environment

• Full‑time, hybrid (remote/home office with requirement to work from the office as directed)
• Office hours Monday‑Friday, 8 am‑5 pm with occasional evening or weekend work
• Up to 25 % travel within Colorado; some overnight travel may be required
• Required to report to the office location as needed by business
• Work is primarily sedentary with occasional standing or lifting of library materials

Major Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and vision to CSL staff and partner libraries across Colorado.
• Develop and implement Colorado’s Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) federal 5‑year plan.
• Serve as a thought leader on library topics and communicate with state and national leaders.
• Administer state and federal library laws and provide guidance to the State Board of Education and other stakeholders.
• Collaborate with CDE and other agencies to develop and improve library services for public and school libraries.
• Prepare and manage a $10 million budget, ensuring legal compliance with IMLS guidelines.
• Work with the Colorado Association of Libraries (CAL) and Colorado Library Consortium (CLiC) to advance learning goals.
• Ensure public and school libraries support K‑12 early literacy initiatives.
• Represent CSL at national and local library conferences and conventions.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree from an institution accredited by the American Library Association (ALA) or equivalent experience.
• At least seven years of progressive library experience, five of which in administrative roles within large library organizations.
• Demonstrated knowledge of current library issues and trends.
• Experience in strategic planning, budgeting, personnel management, policy development, and public speaking.
• Five years of staff supervision and experience leading team‑based decision making.
• Commitment to PK‑12 education and lifelong learning.
• Willingness to travel within and outside Colorado, and ability to pass a background check.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience managing resources in a budget‑constrained environment.
• Work experience in multiple library types (public, school, academic).

Conditions of Employment

• Required to complete pre‑screening and pass a background check.
• Will independently arrange required travel up to 25 % of time.
• Expect extended schedule as business needs dictate.
• Report to office location as directed.

Application Requirements

• Completed online application (through the ATS).
• Cover letter.
• Resume.
• Working email address for correspondence.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Statement

The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments. Applications from all qualified candidates are welcome regardless of race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected status.

Recruiting Information

Recruiting is currently underway. Please submit your application by the posted posting deadline. The position is not yet expired, and no hiring freeze restrictions apply.