Regional Library Director

Human Resources Division•Columbia, TN

3d•$80,000

About The Position

Employees in this classification lead the development and delivery of library services across Tennessee. Each director oversees a regional library center and its local public libraries, ensuring programs align with statewide goals. Responsibilities include planning and implementing regional library initiatives, fostering collaboration with other directors and the State Library and Archives, and maintaining a comprehensive understanding of local libraries' history, services, and needs. Regional Directors build strong relationships with library boards, directors, and staff, providing guidance on policy, planning, advocacy, and training. They work with local officials and support groups to promote public awareness and strengthen library services. Through observation, data collection, and engagement, directors identify strategies for regional and statewide improvement. Regional Directors will be expected to travel throughout the region and to attend meetings and training programs at the State Library and Archives in Nashville or in other areas of the state.

Requirements

Master's Degree in Library or Information Science.
Five years of experience in professional library work in an increasingly responsible position, preferably in a public library setting, with at least three years in a responsible supervisory or administrative capacity.
Demonstrates excellent oral and written communication skills.
Possesses intermediate to advanced skills in computer operations.
Has thorough knowledge of current public library practices and trends, including modern library building design and equipment, and modern library technology.
Has working knowledge of online library management systems.
Possesses strong organizational skills, including the ability to establish priorities, follow project timelines, and meet project deadlines.
Has demonstrated skills in public speaking.
Understands the requirements of adult education and has the ability to plan and present effective library in-service training and continuing education programs.
Must be willing to work a flexible schedule and travel independently throughout the region and the state.
Requires normal visual acuity and field of vision, hearing, and speaking.
Must possess a good driving record and a valid Tennessee driver’s license.
Must exhibit the ability to be a positive influence within the region and while representing the region and state government.
Ability to move and lift materials up to 35 pounds.
Ability to stoop, bend, and lift to file and retrieve materials.
Ability to work in an environment with books and materials that contain dust and other allergens.

Responsibilities

Provides advice and guidance to public library directors in library management, principles and trends, and legal and ethics issues.
Assists public library directors and staff by providing training, assistance, and guidance in areas including planning, budgeting, supervision, technology, collection development, resource sharing, service improvements, data collection, and statistical analysis.
Provides advice and guidance to public library trustees in addition to attending local library board meetings to ascertain and assist with library policy, planning, and development.
Works with local government officials and library support groups, providing advocacy and awareness.
Develops an annual program of workshops and in-service training for local library staff, public library trustees, and regional staff.
Directs and evaluates regional library staff.
Manages State and Federal dollars, approving/denying all expenditures using mandated guidelines.
Monitors state’s “Maintenance of Effort” requirements for library boards.
Prepares reports for local libraries, the regional board, and the State Library and Archives.
Attends mandatory meetings and training sessions, which may require overnight travel.
Works in conjunction with Planning and Development staff in implementing statewide initiatives.
Other duties as assigned.