The state librarian shall have the complete management of the state library, including all extension library services or reader services for the blind and other handicapped persons. The state librarian shall employ a director of reference and such other employees as are required to administer the laws providing for the state library and reference services. Except as otherwise provided by law, all employees of the state librarian shall be within the classified service under the Kansas civil service act. The state librarian may employ student assistants to perform research or other duties prescribed by the state librarian. Each student assistant shall be within the unclassified service under the Kansas civil service act.