Library Director

City of Kodiak•Kodiak, AK

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The City of Kodiak is recruiting an executive-level Library Director for the Kodiak Public Library Department. Under general administrative supervision, the Director plans, organizes, and oversees library operations, maintenance, and programming. The role provides leadership in developing policies, budgets, and long-term strategies to ensure residents have accessible, safe, and inclusive literacy and recreational opportunities. The Director works with community stakeholders, staff, and other City departments to foster partnerships, manage special events, and promote sustainable use of the library. The Director oversees the Department’s management, development, and operations, and is responsible for carrying out duties in a manner that reflects favorably on the City and Department while promoting efficient use of available resources. The role includes managing staff and services, overseeing budgets and strategic planning, representing the Department, and responding to community needs. The position requires a high school diploma or GED and a bachelor’s degree in education, public administration, information management, or a related field. A Master of Library Science or Master of Library and Information Science is preferred. Candidates must have seven to ten years of progressively responsible professional library experience, including three to five years of executive management experience and three years of supervisory experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to perform the essential duties. A valid Alaska driver’s license, or the ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire, and First Aid/CPR certification are required. Work is performed in a routine office environment, with some out-of-office duties and possible travel. Non-traditional work hours may be necessary, and attendance at City Council or other public meetings may be required. The position involves regular interaction with the public, including complex or occasionally adversarial contacts, and light physical work in a library setting.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED and a bachelor’s degree in education, public administration, information management, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to perform the essential duties.
Seven to ten years of progressively responsible professional library experience.
Three to five years of executive management experience.
Three years of supervisory experience.
Valid Alaska driver’s license or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire.
First Aid/CPR certification.
Knowledge of library science and library management, grant and contract administration, applicable laws and regulations, municipal budgeting, personnel management, collection management, workplace safety, public relations, record keeping, and office procedures and equipment.
Skill in developing, evaluating, recommending, and implementing processes and procedures; analyzing complex issues; maintaining public relations; and communicating effectively with staff, the public, and other contacts.
Ability to manage changing priorities; develop and administer departmental goals and procedures; assess programs and operations; select, supervise, train, and evaluate staff; apply progressive discipline; analyze problems and implement recommendations; interpret and apply policies and laws; respond appropriately to inquiries; evaluate service delivery methods; communicate clearly orally and in writing; and maintain effective working relationships.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Library Science (MLS) or Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS).

Responsibilities

Develop and administer departmental policies and procedures for library programs, events, and services.
Oversee, plan, organize, direct, manage, and evaluate the Department’s programs, staff, and functions.
Develop and implement departmental policies, procedures, programs, goals, and objectives, including long-range planning, financial management, and strategic plan implementation.
Manage and supervise staff, including assigning and prioritizing work, conducting performance evaluations, ensuring training, addressing performance deficiencies, enforcing policies and procedures, maintaining a safe and healthy workplace, and making hiring, termination, and disciplinary recommendations.
Establish appropriate service and staffing levels within City policy; evaluate service delivery efficiency and effectiveness and allocate resources accordingly.
Collaborate with City officials, community stakeholders, and local organizations to enhance recreational services and align the Department with the City’s long-term goals.
Inform the public about rules, regulations, and fees governing library facilities and services.
Develop and administer the Department budget, forecast funding needs, approve expenditures, and implement budget adjustments as necessary.
Prepare and present staff reports and other correspondence.
Represent the Library Department to other departments, elected officials, and outside agencies, and coordinate activities with them and other organizations.
Respond to citizens’ requests and complaints concerning library programs and the facility.
Attend professional group meetings, stay informed about trends and developments in libraries, and incorporate developments as appropriate.
Perform other duties as assigned.