Library Manager

City of Austin•Austin, TX

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Working independently, this position manages daily operations of a branch, work unit, or major support function for the Library system. The Library Manager oversees the daily operations of the Circulation division of the Central Library within the Austin Public Library system. This role is responsible for leading a team of library staff, ensuring high-quality public service, and offering strategic oversight for programs, collections, and community engagement initiatives. The Library Manager fosters an inclusive, welcoming environment and ensures alignment with the Library’s mission, vision, and strategic goals. Key responsibilities include supervising staff, developing services, maintaining facilities, and serving as a liaison between the library and the community.

Requirements

Knowledge of books, electronic databases, internet resources, bibliographic sources, reference materials, circulation software, and library automation systems.
Knowledge of library procedures, systems, and techniques.
Knowledge of equity, diversity, and inclusion principles and practices in libraries.
Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws.
Knowledge of City practice, policies, and procedures.
Knowledge of supervisory and managerial techniques and principles.
Skill in oral and written communication.
Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
Skill in using computers and related software, including Microsoft Office products.
Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
Skill in planning and organizing.
Skill in collection development.
Ability to facilitate discussions and resolve issues.
Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
Ability to use library automation and the internet.
Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with other City employees and the public.
Ability to provide high-level customer service.
Ability to work with people of diverse backgrounds.
Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a related field, plus five (5) years of relevant experience, including two (2) years of experience which were in a lead or supervisory capacity.
OR Graduation with a Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in a related field, plus three (3) years of relevant experience, including two (2) years of experience which were in a lead or supervisory capacity.
Valid Driver Class C License.
Must have the ability to read, write, and speak fluently in English.

Nice To Haves

Experience working in a public library setting.
Experience supervising the work of others in a customer service environment.
Demonstrated experience in providing a positive customer experience, including handling escalated concerns; comfortable making decisions, and always prioritizing excellent customer service.
Demonstrated advanced skills in discovering, analyzing, and solving problems, including independent and objective decision-making, taking initiative, and utilizing critical thinking skills.
Demonstrated management experience to effectively supervise, hire, train, develop, coach, counsel, and evaluate performance; experience in providing team management and team development.
Demonstrated commitment to proactively promoting and embracing diversity in ideas, people, and organizations, and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.

Responsibilities

Develops, implements, and evaluates short- and long-term plans for a library branch.
Stays abreast of library trends.
Assists in development of budget and grant applications and directs or monitors work-unit expenditures.
Oversees cash handling and reporting.
Collects and monitors statistics and prepares reports.
Provides input into the development of policies and procedures for the library.
Oversees programs, including outreach engagement, based on community needs and City’s and department's strategic priorities.
Advises library staff on library procedures and issues.
Provides outreach services to the public.
Works or travels to several locations and serves on library-wide committees and task forces.
Conducts meetings, training, and public programs.
Ensures high level of customer service for all customers.
Oversees maintenance, security, and physical attractiveness of facility, grounds, and equipment.
Oversees resource sharing and coordination of services with other libraries and organizations.
Represents the City of Austin and Austin Public Library to the public.
Interprets and explains policies to public and staff.
Responsible for the full range of supervisory activities including selection, training, evaluation, counseling, and recommendation for dismissal.