Equity & Inclusion Consultant

Job Description

Created in response to the growing call of South Carolina public libraries for knowledge and guidance on issues of access and inclusion, this position will promote and support accessible services, resources and programs, and improved staff skills for working with the state’s diverse population. The E&C Consultant will work closely with agency colleagues to ensure equitable access and opportunities in public libraries and the State Library, for participation by individuals of diverse groups or with differing abilities, their families, and caregivers.

Job Responsibilities
  • Provide consultation and expertise in all matters related to inclusivity and accessibility for services provided by the State Library and public libraries to diverse populations, including people of various cultural and ethnic groups, people with physical and intellectual conditions that make it difficult for them to access library services and collections
  • Visit public libraries regularly and on request to assess and recommend services, programming, and equipment appropriate for the service population
  • Recommend and spearhead special projects such as small grant programs, learning events, and other projects as needed to improve library services to diverse populations
  • Offer skills training in a variety of formats: One on one, in group settings, and online to improve library staff skills in providing inclusive services
  • Conduct an annual Exchange bringing together library staff interested in inclusive services
  • Investigate and recommend improvements to State Library and public library facilities to improve accessibility for all users and ensure ADA compliance
  • Investigate and recommend equipment and devices best suited to providing an inclusive response to the needs of the community
  • Investigate and recommend programs, services and resources to meet the needs of South Carolina’s diverse audiences, including sensitivity and awareness training for library staff
  • Assist other Library Development staff with projects as needed, providing an appropriate perspective on serving diverse populations through new and improved services and programs

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • MLIS from an ALA-accredited college or university; three years experience with designing and implementing inclusive services in a library or comparable setting
  • Familiarity with public library audiences, services, facilities, general trends and current issues
  • Familiarity with a wide variety of conditions that limit access to library resources, including intellectual, emotional, physical and learning disabilities
  • Sensitivity to and interest in issues of age-related, cultural, social, racial, ethnic, and economic diversity
  • Knowledge of adaptive devices and equipment and their intended use, as well as some familiarity with cost and maintenance considerations; must be able to compare features and recommend for specific library applications
  • Ability to assess environments, program plans, and work processes for aspects in which accessibility and inclusion can be improved, and to recommend corrective measures and solutions
  • Must possess empathy and interest in individual abilities and barriers, as well as thinking about the big picture of services in a public setting
  • Skill in training in a variety of formats on topics related to disability issues including sensitivity and awareness
  • Must be comfortable and confident in discussing how to address issues of inclusivity and access in libraries
  • Familiarity with ADA guidelines; ability to work with library staff to help them understand the laws and resources that affect people with disabilities

Preferred Qualifications

  • Additional degree or training in disability services or closely related field; additional public library experience with ADA compliance, and/or special needs populations
  • Program planning and project management skills
  • Familiarity with social media tools and general public relations activities needed for program awareness
  • Experience with outreach, program planning, and/or service provision to diverse populations
  • Should enjoy making field visits, talking to library staff, and pursuing partnerships and other cooperative arrangements outside the agency

Benefits
  • Starting salary range $39,960-$50,000 depending on experience.
  • Benefits Include: vacation (15 days per year); sick leave (15 days per year); holidays (13 days per year), standard benefits package and South Carolina State Retirement System.

How to Apply

All applications must be submitted online at www.jobs.sc.gov

Additional Comments

  • Occasional day travel required; occasional overnight travel expected.
  • Complete the State application to include all current and previous work/salary history and education. A resume will not be accepted nor reviewed in lieu of a completed state application to determine if an applicant has met the qualifications for the position. Include a cover letter, resume and three professional references; reference and background check will be conducted.