Library Director

General Statement of Responsibilities
The Library Director is responsible for all aspects of the general administration of the Essex Library, a non-profit association library, according to policies determined by its Board of Trustees.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

• Administer all operations of the library according to policy and within budget.
• Supervise all library personnel, including hiring, staff development, performance reviews, general management, scheduling and oversight.
• Select, order and process all books and other materials (or delegate these tasks) according to policy.
• Promote use of the library.
• Actively seek partnership and cooperative ventures with other organizations as appropriate and to seek to strengthen the library’s role among its network of collaborative organizations.
• Report and recommend to the Board of Trustees issues regarding library services, general policy, personnel and staffing needs, budget requirements and related library needs.
• Recommend annual budget for Board review and approval.
•  Assist in preparing and presenting requests for municipal, private and grant funding.
• Participate in fundraising and development projects, including the Annual Operating Appeal.
• Maintain all library records as required by the Board of Trustees and the Connecticut State Library and in accordance with applicable laws.
• File reports as required by the Board of Trustees and the Connecticut State Library and in accordance with applicable laws.
• Implement action items as specified in Board approved Long Range Plan.
• Coordinate and supervise volunteer activities (or delegation of these tasks).
• Maintain important relationship with Friends of the Essex Library.
• Attend all Board of Trustee meetings and Board sub-committee meetings as required.
• Supervise library facility operations and grounds maintenance.

Necessary qualifications
ALA accredited MLS preferred; a related BA and other Master’s degree and/or relevant library experience will be considered. The Library Director must be able to provide and foster excellent customer service and have the interpersonal skills necessary to work with a dynamic board, community leaders, patrons and other stakeholders.  He or she should be aware of and sensitive to the unique role of a small town library in the community and be comfortable in public settings. A history of successful fundraising and grant writing will be advantageous. Experience within an automated library system environment and competence in general computer programs and maintenance is required. Staff supervision experience is also required. The Director must posses the leadership and communication skills that will enable him or her to work and lead in a flexible, cross-functional, team-oriented environment and to positively represent the Library to the community.

Hours and Compensation

40 plus-hours per week. Salary commensurate with experience, skills and education and is in keeping with State Library recommendations.

January 2008