M.L.S., M.L.I.S. or equivalent degree from an ALA-accredited school
One year of experience as a librarian or conducting legal research Legal research experience must include case law, statutes, regulations with use of major legal databases (e.g., Westlaw, Lexis)
Significant professional experience as a law librarian, preferably in a law firm, government, or similarly fast-paced legal environment.
Demonstrated expertise in managing legal information resources, including vendor relations, acquisitions, and collection development, with a strong understanding of cost control and value optimization.
Deep familiarity with major legal research platforms (e.g., Westlaw, Lexis, Bloomberg Law) and a broad range of digital legal and business information resources.
Proven ability to evaluate and implement emerging technologies that enhance legal research and knowledge management, including an interest in and aptitude for tools such as generative AI.
Experience developing and delivering effective training programs and user education initiatives across a range of formats (in-person, virtual, and asynchronous).
Strong strategic thinking skills, with the ability to assess organizational needs, analyze resource usage, and make data-informed recommendations.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to advise attorneys and professional staff clearly, confidently, and persuasively.
Demonstrated commitment to collaboration and to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and service-oriented workplace.
Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, with a track record of managing multiple priorities, deadlines, and projects with accuracy and efficiency.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, exercising sound judgment and initiative in a dynamic environment.
Proficiency with library systems and tools (e.g., ILS platforms such as Koha, LibGuides) and standard business applications, including Microsoft Office an
Additional Information
About the Law Librarian and Library
The Law Librarian serves as a trusted advisor to attorneys and professional staff across all practice areas, ensuring seamless access to legal resources while driving the Office's transition toward a modern, primarily digital research environment. With responsibility for shaping collections, negotiating high-value vendor contracts, and guiding research strategy, the Librarian plays a critical role in enabling high-quality legal work on behalf of the City.
The library maintains a presence in both San Francisco City Hall and Fox Plaza, with a clear mandate to thoughtfully streamline physical collections and expand digital access. This is an opportunity for a librarian who is energized by change, technology, and the chance to build a best-in-class legal information program.
Law Librarian Responsibilities
The responsibilities below reflect the breadth and impact of this role and may evolve over time.
Strategic Leadership & Collection Development
Lead the strategic direction of the Office's legal information resources, aligning collections with evolving practice needs.
Develop and manage the annual library budget, balancing cost control with high-quality resource access.
Evaluate resource usage and emerging tools to optimize subscriptions, with a strong emphasis on digital transformation.
Make data-informed recommendations regarding renewals, cancellations, and new acquisitions.
Operations & Resource Management
Oversee both digital and physical library collections, including ongoing efforts to reduce print and streamline access.
Manage distribution of materials such as desk copies, newsletters, and other resources.
Ensure efficient processing of acquisitions, renewals, and invoices.
Vendor Relations & Contract Management
Lead negotiations with legal information vendors, securing favorable terms and maximizing value.
Manage contracts, subscriptions, renewals, and invoicing in coordination with internal stakeholders.
Innovation & Knowledge Management
Contribute to Office-wide knowledge management initiatives, including the evaluation and implementation of emerging technologies such as generative AI tools.
Identify opportunities to improve access to institutional knowledge and research efficiency.
Training, Outreach & Knowledge Sharing
Design and deliver engaging training programs on legal research tools and best practices (in-person, virtual, and asynchronous).
Develop user-friendly guides, newsletters, and intranet content to promote awareness and effective use of resources.
Provide onboarding support to new employees, ensuring immediate and effective access to research tools.
Legal Research & Advisory Services
Conduct sophisticated legal and non-legal research in support of attorneys and professional staff.
Partner with legal teams to develop efficient, cost-effective research strategies.
Serve as a subject matter expert on legal research platforms, tools, and methodologies.
Cityandcountyofsanfrancisco1 · San Francisco, CA