Library Director Job Descriptions
Director Of Library Services
Town Of Bloomfield
General Description
This is highly responsible administrative work involving the direction of a broad range of public library functions.
Work involves responsibility for the management of a public library collection and for the provision of library services to patrons and community organizations. Duties include policy recommendation, departmental planning, and direction and administration of library activities. The position is also invested with making the most difficult library technical decisions. The work requires that the employee have thorough knowledge, skill and ability in every phase of the public library field.
Supervision Received
Works under the administrative direction of the Prosser Library Board of Directors.
Examples Of Duties
- Drafts and recommends policy to the Library Board and plans for the implementation of public library goals and objectives.
- Directs the operations of Technical and Children's services at Prosser Library and directly supervises Adult outreach services and the Wintonbury Branch Library.
- Evaluates and administers library programs such as circulation, reference, reader's advisory services, children's services, community services, and public information.
- Directs the development and maintenance of a public library collection of books, periodicals, records, films, tapes and a variety of other library materials.
- Directs the development, repair and maintenance of the Library buildings.
- Provides staff support to the Library Board of Directors by assisting with meetings, preparing reports, and implementing policy decided by the Board.
- Prepares the annual departmental budget and presents and defends budget requests before the Library Board and Town Council.
- Directs and controls the expenditure of departmental fund allocations within the constraints of approved budgets.
- Confers with State agencies, other public libraries, corporations, and community groups in the development of library programs for the Town and assists in coordinating interlibrary program efforts.
- Provides reference and reader's advisory services on a regular schedule to library patrons as supervisor of that department.
- Prepares various kinds of statistical reports on finances or book stock utilizing a microcomputer.
- Confers with Town officials and the general public to provide information and to resolve problems and complaints.
- Directs the training of library staff in technical and administrative library skills.
- Directs and participates in personnel actions such as hiring, termination, assignment, evaluation, and labor relations.
- Represents the library on regional and state committees and serves as the Town's authority on library issues. Performs related work as required.
Knowledge, Skills And Abilities
- Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of public library functions.
- Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of public administration as applied to a public library.
- Thorough ability in oral and written communications.
- Thorough ability to administer the activities of a public library and to supervise the work of others.
- Thorough ability to make decisions in an environment of limited resources and competing claims.
- Thorough ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors, subordinates, associates, officials of other agencies, and the general public.
Qualifications
A Master's Degree in Library Science from an accredited college or university plus five years of progressively responsible library administration experience including at least three years in a supervisory capacity, OR, an equivalent combination of education and experience substituting on the basis of one year for each year of education.
Special Requirements
None
Revised 9/93
TOWN OF ENFIELD
ENFIELD LIBRARY
DIRECTOR OF LIBRARIES
GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES: Highly responsible administrative work involving the direction of a broad range of public library functions. Work involves responsibility for the management of a large public library collection and for the provision of library services to patrons and community organizations. Duties include policy recommendation, departmental planning and direction and administration of library activities. The position is also invested with making the most difficult library technical decisions. The work requires that the employee have thorough knowledge, skill and ability in every phase of the public library field.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Works under the general supervision of the Town Manager.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED: Directly supervises all employees.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: Trains employees in library routines; prepares work schedules and assigns areas of responsibility; prepares department budget and various reports; approves expenditure of appropriations for library purposes; checks bills and employee time records; assists users in obtaining best results from the use of library facilities; prepares and makes annual report of operations for Town Manager and State Library Grant; confers with Town officials and the general public to provide information and to resolve problems or complaints; confers with agencies, other public libraries, corporations and community groups in the development of library programs for the Town, region and state and assists in coordinating inter-library program efforts; directs and participates in personnel actions such as hiring, termination, assignment, evaluation and labor relations; fills in at public service desk as needed.; regular and punctual attendance.
OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS: Selects and purchases new books and supplies; performs related work as required.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representatives of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job the employee is frequently required to reach with hands and arms, stand, walk, sit, use hands to finger, grasp, handle, feel or operate objects, tools or controls and talk and hear. The employee is occasionally required to kneel and crouch.
The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Performs highly complex and varied tasks requiring independent knowledge, its application to a variety of situations as well as exercise of independent judgment.
The noise level in the work environment is generally quiet.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY: Thorough knowledge of the principles of library science, organization and functions; thorough knowledge of library administration including fundamentals and budgeting; 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 Computer skills essential as well as knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software, LANS, WANS, CD ROM product. Must keep up with computer changes.
EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: A Master's Degree in Library Science from a recognized college or university plus five (5) years of progressively responsible library administration experience including at least three (3) years in a supervisory capacity or any combination of experience and training which provides a demonstrated potential for performing the duties of the position.
This job description is not, nor is it intended to be, a complete statement of all duties, functions and responsibilities that comprise this position.
Director of Library Services
Town Of Groton
Position Overview
Plans, organizes, and directs a comprehensive program of community library, informational, educational, cultural, communications and related services; oversees the care and maintenance of the Town Library building, equipment, and systems and formulates library policies and programs for review by the Library Board and direction by the Town Manager.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities
Plans and organizes the activities, programs, and services of the Library according to perceived needs of the community, Town departments, and seasonal demand. Administers library services through subordinates in the functional areas of information services, loans, acquisitions, events, instruction, equipment repair, video and other communications projects, and facilities management. Performs near term and long range planning for development services. Develops system improvements as needed. Prepares budget and program recommendations. Administers adopted budget. Oversees the collection and accounting of fees and charges. Supervises the employment and performance evaluation of staff members. Administers personnel regulations and a collective bargaining agreement for employees. Prepares narrative and statistical reports for the Town Manager, the Library Board, the State Library, and the Town Council as appropriate. Plans agenda items and coordinates records and materials of the Library Board. Prepares policy and recommends fees for Library Board review and advisement. Plans and implements procedures to augment library goals and services through Friends of the Library, and in cooperation worth community educational, cultural, civic organizations. Presents special programs, such as book reviews, lectures, and instructional activities to extend library services and facilities into the community. Attends night meetings as required by position.
Additional Duties And Responsibilities
Furnishes specific research information and materials to departments upon request. Provides training and development programs for Library and other Town employees. Participates in professional library associations, and other professional organizations to remain current on developments and advancements in Library Science, public administration, and training. Performs routine library duties as needed.
Qualifications
The skills and knowledge required would usually be acquired with a Master's Degree in Library Science and ten (10) years of progressively responsible library work, including five (5) years in the supervision of a public library major department or as a director of a smaller public library. A combination of education and experience which demonstrates the ability to successfully meet the requirements of the position may be considered.
Excellent communication skills both verbal and written. Ability to read, analyze and interpret business and professional journals, financial reports and legal documents. Skill in sensitively and effectively responding to inquiries and complaints from customers, regulatory agencies and the business community. Ability to effectively prepare and present information to top management and public groups. Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions. Able to appropriately deal with a variety of abstract and concrete variables.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
Valid driver's license.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, and distance vision. The employee will occasionally be required to attend off-site meetings.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet. The employee will be required to operate typical business office equipment, including computer hardware.
Accommodations
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
TOWN OF MONROE
JOB DESCRIPTION
LIBRARY DIRECTOR
Department: Library
Position Overview: Under the general supervision of the First Selectman and with policy advice from the Library Board of Trustees, performs responsible and varied administrative and professional work related to planning, organizing, and directing all aspects of library services for the Town of Monroe.
Primary Responsibilities:
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Supervises the library staff, directly or through appropriate delegation, to create a harmonious team environment
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Administers personnel policies and procedures for library employees, including training, development, scheduling, and evaluation, either directly or through appropriate delegation
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Participates in the recruitment and selection of library personnel
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Responsible for developing print and non-print collections, including selection, organization, maintenance, preservation, withdrawal, and disposal of materials, either directly or through appropriate delegation
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Prepares and presents library budget proposal for approval, and monitors and approves expenditures from the official operating budget
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Confers with the Library Board of Trustees to establish operating policies and to review the library's menu of services
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Develops short-term and long-range goals and plans for collections, services, and programs in keeping with the library's mission statement and operating policies; studies and plans development of library services to meet present and future community needs
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Participates in the planning, organization, and management of technical and automation services for the library
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Directs a public relations program to promote and publicize the library's collections, services, and programs within the community
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Maintains knowledge of new developments in the library profession, including technological advances, through professional development opportunities, including but not limited to participation in activities of professional organizations and networks and of the Connecticut State Library
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Interacts with the appropriate town employees for the maintenance of the library's building, furnishings, and equipment
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Responsible for the collection and accounting of fines, fees, and other charges
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Administers the volunteer program, including recruitment, training, scheduling, and evaluating
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Prepares regular narrative and statistical reports for the First Selectman, the Library Board of Trustees, and others as designated
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Assists in preparing meeting agendas and materials and participates in Library Board of Trustees meetings
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Establishes priorities as determined by need
Additional Responsibilities:
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Advises, consults, and confers with other libraries, professionals, officials, citizens, and community groups
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Reviews and evaluates the library's services and programs on an annual basis
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Prepares grant requests to state and federal agencies and non-profit foundations, and administers grant funds upon award
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Maintains inventory of department equipment, furniture, and supplies
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Prepares specifications for purchase of equipment and supplies
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Assists with direct patron services, as needed
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Works with the Friends of the Library organization in promoting the library before the community
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Attends conferences, workshops, and meetings and reads professional literature to stay informed on issues related to library management and services
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Serves on professional and community committees, as requested, to advance the library and the library profession
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Performs other duties, as required
Supervision Received: Receives general supervision from the First Selectman and policy advice from the Library Board of Trustees
Supervision Exercised: Supervises all library staff and volunteers
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
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Thorough knowledge of the principles, theories, objectives, and practices of library management and library science
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Committed to excellence in customer service
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Strong oral and written communications skills
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Ability to work independently
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Ability to organize work for efficient use of time
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Ability to prepare administrative reports in a clear, logical manner
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Ability to understand and interpret library policies, procedures, and rules
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Ability to keep records accurately
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Ability to interact courteously and effectively with elected and appointed officials, town employees, library staff and volunteers, the library's business contacts, and the general public
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Considerable knowledge of supervision, training, and staff utilization principles
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Ability to plan, organize, supervise, and evaluate the work of employees and volunteers in diversified library activities
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Ability to initiate, organize, and follow through on programs, services, and projects
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Solid knowledge of current trends and developments in the library profession
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Thorough knowledge of library resources: print, non-print, and electronic
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Knowledge of library automation
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Working knowledge of public relations procedures
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Ability to represent the library at professional and community meetings
Minimum Qualifications: Master's Degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited institution required, plus 7 years of increasingly responsible experience as a librarian in a public library, including 5 years of supervisory experience.
Physical Requirements:
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Ability to perform duties in an office environment
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Ability to work in an environment subject to continuous interruptions and background noises
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Ability to work under stress from deadlines, public contact, and changing priorities, and conditions
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Ability to operate computers with proficiency using library software, word processing, and the Internet
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Ability to view a computer monitor and/or operate a keyboard for extended periods of time
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Ability to move and/or lift materials up to 25 pounds
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Regularly required to stand, walk, bend, kneel, crawl, reach, climb, balance, and sit
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Regularly required to talk and/or hear; use hands to operate objects, tools, and controls; and reach with hands and arms
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Vision and hearing at or correctable to "normal ranges"
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Ability to read printed materials and information on computer screens
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Ability to communicate effectively with individuals in person, over the telephone, and via the printed word
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Ability to file books, periodicals, files, reports, notebooks, etc. on shelves ranging from 1 to 7 feet from the floor
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Ability to work flexible hours to observe library during all hours of public operation
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Ability to travel to attend meetings both inside and outside of Monroe
ACCOMMODATIONS: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
3/08
Library Director
New Fairfield Library
Supervisor
Library Board of Trustees
Hours of Work
Salaried, Full Time
Primary Function
Under the direction of the Library Board of Trustees, develops, administers, supervises, and coordinates the work of the Library and staff, performs managerial duties related to personnel, budget, collection development, building maintenance, and library operations and services in conformity of the policies established by the Board of Trustees and the regulations of the Connecticut State Library.
Qualifications, Education, Experience, and Skills Required
- A Master's Degree in Library Science from an accredited college or university plus five years of progressively responsible library administration experience including at least three years in a supervisory capacity.
- Excellent communication skills and organizational skills
- Ability to administer the activities of a public library and to supervise the work of others
- Ability to develop short and long term development, plans, and objectives
- Maintains knowledge of standard library principles and practices, concepts of freedom of speech, copyrights, collection development, patron confidentiality, censorship, and other library ethical issues
- Proficiency with computers, popular library software, internet and digital communications
- Thorough ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors, subordinates, associates, officials of other agencies, and the general public
Specific Duties
- Plans, implements, and evaluates library services
- Develops, implements, and evaluates long and short term goals and objectives
- Develops and administers policies concerning library operations, budgets and programs
- Handles complaints in accordance with policy
- Provides supervision and delegates responsibilities to the library staff
- Recruits and recommends employment of library personnel recommends promotions, transfers, or termination of staff
- Organizes, trains, assigns, and evaluates personnel and volunteers
- Conducts staff meetings
- Prepares the annual budget and presents and defends budget requests before the Library Board.
- Directs and controls the expenditure of fund allocations within constraints of approved budgets.
- Purchases new equipment and furnishings
- Accepts and acknowledges gifts of money and library materials
- Pursues and applies for grant money
- Prepares monthly and annual financial and statistical reports to Library Board , Town officials and State Library
- Attends monthly Board of Trustee meetings
- Supervises maintenance of library building equipment, and furnishings
- Oversees equipment of furnishings and book collection
- Evaluates collection for balance and comprehensiveness
- Schedules withdrawals and inventory of materials
- Selects adult materials
- Cooperates with community groups and town officials to implement library services
- Speaks before local groups
- Oversees and approves scheduled use of library by outside groups
- Prepares questionnaires and surveys to evaluate public responses to the library
- Keeps informed of current developments in library field by attending workshops, professional meetings, and reading current literature
- Maintains membership in professional organizations
- Provides reference and reader's advisory services to patrons as needed
- Performs other related responsibilities as necessary such as circulation
Library Director
Sherman Public Library
Job Title: Library Director
Position reports to: Sherman Library Board of Trustees
In keeping with the mission of the Sherman Library Association (SLA), the Library Director is responsible for developing and supporting all efforts necessary to maintain a free library, responsive to the community’s needs for information, education, and recreation. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, the Library Director develops library policies, monitors library services, develops and manages the budget, creates public relations materials, supervises staff and volunteers, oversees the physical plant, and stays informed of developments in library management. In addition, the Library Director serves as a member ex officio of the Board of Trustees to insure a consistent flow of communication.
Planning and Policy-Making
A clear statement of library policies insures that decisions about all aspects of the SLA are consistent and fair. Working with the Board, the Library Director:
- Develops long range plans to support and promote the mission of the library.
- Develops short term plans to address specific issues facing the library as they arise.
- Formulates and recommends policies to the Board and implements the procedures to carry out these goals.
- Develops clear descriptions of staff positions including a non-discrimination statement, qualifications for employment, evaluation procedures, and causes for dismissal.
Library Services
The regular assessment and development of library services is important to fulfilling the SLA mission. To support these efforts the Library Director:
- Plans, organizes, and regularly evaluates a program of service that supports the mission of the SLA and reflects the needs of the Sherman community.
- Selects and maintains library materials including books, media, computer programs and other materials and insures that these materials meet the needs of the community.
- Supervises the purchase, utilization, and maintenance of technology to deliver, monitor and enhance library services.
- Compiles and records library statistics and assembles them for monthly meetings of the Board of Trustees, the SLA annual report and Connecticut State.
Financial Operations
The coordination of all aspects of fundraising and expenses is vital to insuring the financial stability of the SLA. In order to insure efficient and responsible management of the library budget the Library Director:
- Prepares the annual budget for Board review and approval in a timely manner.
- Presents budget requests to Board of Selectmen.
- Administers and monitors expenditure of library funds to stay within approved budget.
- Works with Treasurer to review monthly reports and keep abreast of various funds and accounts.
- Identifies, pursues and supports all fundraising efforts through grant writing, planned giving, underwriting and the annual appeal.
- Prepares grant proposals for state agencies, foundations and other organizations to fund programs.
- Acts as a conduit between Board, staff and volunteers to ensure smooth implementation of fund-raising activities within the daily operations of the library.
Public Relations
As per the Public Relations Policy of the SLA, the Library Director:
- Manages internal and external communication of the SLA including but not limited to brochures, newsletters, fliers, and newspaper articles.
- Identifies and pursues public relations opportunities that engender good will toward and promotion of the SLA.
- Develops and maintains cooperative relationships with the Sherman Town Government, the Sherman School, the Sherman Historical Society, and other community organizations.
Personnel Management
As the immediate supervisor of all library personnel, the Library Director:
- Recruits, trains, evaluates and, when necessary, terminates all staff and volunteers.
- Assigns duties, defines staff responsibilities, and administers wages.
- Promotes staff development by providing opportunities for staff to attend workshops and conferences.
Physical Plant Management
The Library Director’s oversees all aspects of the physical plant, grounds and equipment. The Library Director:
- Schedules and supervises contract services, maintenance personnel and takes appropriate action in emergencies.
- Purchases equipment and furnishings as needed.
- Provides leadership and direction for major development projects including construction and renovation of facilities.
Board of Trustees Representative
The Library Director informs the Board of Trustees of all relevant library business. As an ex officio member of the board, the Library Director:
- Participates in monthly meetings of the Board of Trustees and provides a detailed report of library operations and developments at each meeting.
- Provides professional expertise and guidance to the board including but not limited to presenting information on pertinent legislation from local, state, and federal agencies, discussing trends in library technology, funding, and management wherever possible.
- Serves as ex officio member on Board committees.
Professional Development
To stay aware of new trends in library management and technology, legal issues facing libraries, and new ideas for programming the Library Director:
- Attends meetings, workshops and conferences.
- Maintains membership and participates in professional library associations.
The Library Director’s job also includes any other duties that are requested by the Board of Directors or that are essential to ensuring that the SLA provides the best possible library service to the community. The Library Director will be evaluated by the Board annually.
December 2005
Library Director
Wilton Library
Summary of Responsibilities:
Communication
Manages the internal and external communications and public relations of the Association
Leads in the communication of Library needs to the community.
Expands community outreach to provide broader channels for the exchange of information, encouraging the Association's responsiveness to the needs of the community.
Relays changes in Library services, programs, and collection to the Board.
Relays developments in Library fund-raising, expansion, and strategic planning to staff.
Provides liaison initiatives to business and school communities, positioning the Library as a partner to these two segments of Wilton.
Encourages the publication and dissemination of internal policies and procedures to staff.
Personnel & Staff
Oversees the recruiting, training, performance management and retention of staff.
Maintains an overview of Library activities that enables redeployment of staff in areas of heavy use or to provide enhanced service.
Encourages professional development among staff members and mines the talents of staff to benefit the activities of the Association.
Creates opportunities for staff to suggest and implement improvements in Library service, programs and collection within a customer-focused framework that supports the vision and mission of the Association.
Develops and implements the necessary human capital infrastructure which supports the Association's objectives and positions the Association for future expansion.
Library Services & Operations
Provides leadership with regard to creation and implementation of "best practices" in library management/administration, consulting others in the field as appropriate.
Oversees the utilization and maintenance of the Library's physical plant.
Leads the day-to-day operations of the Library, including but not limited to: reference, circulation, programs, volunteer utilization, community outreach and relations, staff training and development, community database creation and maintenance.
Oversees the continual development of the Library's Web site so that it is an instrument for service delivery, information exchange and public awareness.
Supervises the utilization and maintenance of technology to deliver, monitor, and enhance Library service.
Stays abreast of demographic and usage trends to make efficient and effective use of limited collection resources.
Budget/Finance
Creates the annual Budget for the Association.
Maintains the financial integrity of the Budget's implementation and administration.
Working with the Treasurer of the Association, provides information to staff, Trustees, and appropriate outside parties regarding reconciliation of actual income and expense to budgeted amounts.
Strategic Planning/Fund-Raising
Supports and advises the Board of Trustees in its fund-raising initiatives.
Attends Board of Trustee and Board Committee meetings as deemed appropriate to inform the ongoing business of the Association.
Works with the Board of Trustees in carrying out affairs of the Association, including assistance in the formulation of policies and practices of the Board.
Acts as a conduit between Board of Trustees and staff to ensure smooth implementation of fund-raising activities within the daily operations of the Library.
Plays an active role in strategic planning for building expansion .
Interacts as appropriate with such consultants as the Board of Trustees may engage to provide guidance in the expansion of the Library facility.
Responsible to:
Library Board of Trustees
Reports to:
Library Board President
Education and Training Required:
Holds a Master of Library Science degree from an accredited university. Exhibits strong skills in traditional, online database and Internet research. Attends appropriate continuing education workshops and conferences. Reads professional journals to remain abreast of developments in the profession. Has served five years or more in progressively more responsible administrative positions.
Works:
Full-time position. 35 hours per week.
revised 8/02
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