Public Relations Director

Huntsville-Madison County Public Library•Huntsville, AL

just now•$31•Onsite

About The Position

The Huntsville-Madison County Public Library is a non-profit library system comprised of ten locations providing library and information services to the city of Huntsville and the surrounding Madison County area. HMCPL is seeking a Public Relations Director to lead HMCPL's PR department. The selected candidate will be responsible directly for overseeing the public relations efforts of the library system and promote the Library’s efforts to allow the public to safely and to creatively explore the universe of ideas and connect with our community and the world. The ideal candidate will be organized, highly knowledgeable about public relations and the communications field, and demonstrate reliability, knowledge, and enthusiasm towards the Library’s mission and goals.

Requirements

Thorough knowledge of the principles of modern journalistic principles and practices
Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of fundraising
Considerable knowledge of effective methods of promotion of services and programs in the community to achieve library goals
Considerable knowledge of public relations principles and practices used in the preparation and dissemination of informational and promotional material for use in all types of media
Considerable knowledge of library organization and operation
Ability to analyze and solve major problems
Ability to develop data and recommendations influencing policy
Complete competence in oral and written communications
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors, subordinates, associates, corporate representatives, officials of other agencies, and the general public
Proficiency with current computer and internet technology as well as knowledge of evolving technological developments within the library industry
A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in journalism, communications, marketing, public relations, or a related area and at least two (2) years of experience in the preparation of library promotional material or informational material for popular release; or any combination of education, training, and experience which provides a demonstrated potential for performing the above listed duties of the position is required.

Responsibilities

Oversees the day-to-day operations of the PR department and directs PR efforts for all library locations.
Advises the director and Library Board on responses to external communications including but not limited to customers, local officials, and the media.
Plans and directs the production of library publications such as brochures, rack cards, signage, book lists, informational flyers, donor reports, and digital media including websites and social media accounts.
Plans and directs the development, design, execution and promotion of special events and activities, including large-scale publicity campaigns and events.
Confers with community groups and individuals to determine public perception of the Library’s services and facilities.
Determines promotional and public relations needs of the Library including formulating strategies and planning promotional materials and programs.
Solicits media coverage and responds to all requests for media representation on behalf of the Library; prepares news releases for dissemination to local and national media and for use on the internet in required formats; arranges for local and national press, radio, and television coverage of library events and grant funded programs; writes and directs the content of official statements, speeches, and feature stories for the library director.
Participates in special projects and performs additional duties as required.