State Librarian Richard Burns is retiring at the end of the year, according to a news release from the Hawaii State Public Library System.

Burns has been in charge of Hawaii’s public libraries since January 2008 and has worked for the Hawaii public library system for 30 years. His tenure includes stints at libraries in Kahuku, Waianae, Manoa, Ewa Beach, Hawaii Kai, Kailua, Kaneohe, Waimanalo and Kapolei.

A search committee has been set up to find Burns’ successor. The salary for the head of the state’s public libraries is set by law at no more than $120,000 a year.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to have served as State Librarian during this extraordinary time when public libraries have been transformed by technological advancements and resources,” Burns said in a news release.

Board of Education Chairman Don Horner said: “Hawaii’s 50 libraries are strategically located throughout our State and are a vital information and community resource. Under Richard’s leadership and our board’s planning process, we have positioned our libraries to become more communities gathering spaces that also provide access to technology, vocational training, and are a resource for digital literacy.”

The Board of Education selection committee will be chaired by Board Member Amy Asselbaye and include Chairman Don Horner, and a representative from the Friends of the Library of Hawaii. The committee will begin a local and national search for Hawaii’s next state librarian, with the goal of announcing an appointment before the end of the year.