The University of Washington’s librarian promotion process offers multiple pathways for career advancement, each tailored to the unique career stage and rank of the candidate. Understanding these potential outcomes—whether seeking promotion from Assistant to Senior Assistant Librarian, navigating the path to permanent status, or advancing to the highest Librarian rank—helps candidates and institutions alike prepare for a process that values professional growth and demonstrated impact. As outlined in CBA Article 18.1, these outcomes reflect UW’s four-tiered librarian ranking system, where each level builds upon the previous one’s qualifications and expectations, ultimately rewarding excellence in professional responsibilities rather than supervisory duties.
Assistant Librarian
Promotion to Senior Assistant Librarian
- Promotion to Senior Assistant Librarian with provisional status effective the beginning of the next academic year; or
- Nonrenewal of appointment at the end of the next academic year.
Senior Assistant Librarian
Renewal of Appointment Status (Reappointment)
- Renewal of appointment with provisional status for an additional, and final, three (3)-year renewal period effective the beginning of the next academic year; or
- Nonrenewal of appointment at the end of the next academic year.
Promotion to Associate Librarian in 3rd year of appointment
- Renewal of appointment with provisional status for an additional, and final, three (3)-year period effective the beginning of the next academic year; or
- Promotion to Associate Librarian with permanent status effective the beginning of the next academic year; or
- Nonrenewal of appointment at the end of the next academic year.
Promotion to Associate Librarian during the first and second years of renewed provisional appointment
- Promotion to Associate Librarian with permanent status effective the beginning of the next academic year; or
- Continuation of renewed appointment.
Promotion to Associate Librarian during the third year of renewed appointment
- Promotion to Associate Librarian with permanent status effective the beginning of the next academic year; or
- Nonrenewal of appointment at the end of the next academic year.
Associate Librarian
Review for Permanent Status for Associate Librarian with provisional status
- Permanent status effective the beginning of the next academic year; or
- Nonrenewal of appointment at the end of the next academic year.
Promotion to Librarian
- Promotion to Librarian effective the beginning of the next academic year; or
- Denial. Additional applications may be made in future years.