Library Director Jobs

About The Position

Requirements

• Master of Science degree in Library/Information Science from an American Library Association-accredited institution.
• Ten or more years of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Three years of supervisory experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Professional communication skills and leadership qualities sufficient to manage library staff and address sensitive inquiries or complaints.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret complex documents; write speeches and articles; and deliver persuasive presentations to management, public groups, and boards.
• Ability to calculate figures and amounts and apply basic algebra and geometry.
• Ability to solve practical problems in situations with limited standardization and interpret written, oral, diagrammatic, or schedule-based instructions.
• Working knowledge of computer and network operating systems, Microsoft Office, automated systems, online systems, and Internet resources.
• Ability to work independently and cooperatively in a team environment, handle stressful situations, and maintain confidentiality of customer records and transactions.
• Ability to perform the physical demands of the position, including frequent standing, walking, sitting, reaching, handling items, and communicating; occasional climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling; and regularly lifting or moving up to 10 pounds and occasionally up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to work a schedule that may include evening and Saturday rotations.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of library services, policies, procedures, and programs in accordance with the library’s mission and goals.
• Lead development and delivery of library services to the community and mentor staff with a focus on excellent customer service.
• Train staff in the use and support of new technology and applications.
• Maintain effective communication with library staff, patrons, City administration, the community, vendors, and library support groups.
• Plan and conduct staff meetings and support library board meetings.
• Participate in community and professional meetings, attend City and community meetings as a library representative, and prepare and deliver public presentations.
• Prepare library policies for City Administration approval and create, interpret, implement, and recommend library policies and procedures.
• Develop strategic planning and marketing for library services, including overseeing press releases and other public-awareness efforts.
• Resolve customer complaints and issues concerning library rules and regulations in a timely and professional manner.
• Analyze administrative policies, work procedures, and library usage data to assess the effectiveness of services.
• Gather statistical information and evaluate building plans and community growth to assess library programs and expansion needs.
• Participate in professional associations, conferences, workshops, training, forums, and review of professional publications to stay current on library issues and trends.
• Prepare and administer the library budget; coordinate estimates, control expenditures, and seek new funding sources, including through grant writing.
• Approve gifts, authorize invoice payments, and oversee compliance with purchasing and contractual requirements.
• Oversee facility and grounds maintenance and repair, and approve plans, designs, improvements, and construction projects.
• Provide community outreach, represent the library at events and committees, conduct library tours, and provide library and information assistance to users.
• Participate in opening and closing the library and securing the facility; perform circulation, adult reference, and children’s services as needed.
• Supervise and approve librarians’ value-added programming, including storytimes, crafts, summer reading, film programs, computer workshops, book discussions, and other community-based programs.
• Maintain authority over the library collection, approve material purchases, and supervise and approve collection development and management practices.
• Evaluate integrated library automated systems and recommend improvements; stay informed about information technologies to meet changing public needs.
• Build and maintain relationships with publishers and library vendors and respond to account-information requests from vendors and staff.
• Direct, coordinate, and evaluate the unit; interview, hire, train, assign, and direct employees; appraise performance; reward and discipline employees; and address complaints and resolve problems.
• Oversee the Bentonville History Museum’s operations, personnel, budget, strategic projects, and policies as directed by the Mayor.