Executive Director – Manchester Community Library (Manchester, VT )

OVERVIEW

The Manchester Community Library (MCL), the modern offspring of the town’s Mark Skinner Library, founded in 1897, seeks a creative and inspiring Executive Director to lead the organization to the next level in its never-ending quest to simultaneously be a 21st century library and a community hub for residents of Manchester, Vermont, and surrounding towns in Bennington County.

Reporting to the 13-member Board of Trustees, the new Executive Director will lead a staff of 10 augmented by a corps of volunteers that will provide patrons with a broad mix of services and programs within its 18,500 square foot building that opened in 2015.

Key responsibilities include the administration and operations of the Library, staff and Board management, oversight of all fundraising, marketing and public relations, and advocacy for the Library and general outreach to residents, patrons and town office holders.

The operating budget for the Library is roughly $1 million, with revenue streams provided by an appropriation from the town of Manchester approved each year by its taxpayers, endowment income, and philanthropic support from individuals and corporations.

The Library’s tag line – “Meet you at The Library” – speaks to the essence of small-town character. MCL’s chief ambition is to connect residents with one another by providing a welcoming and comfortable place that also provides access to tools and information and presents compelling programs for kids and adults of all ages.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Executive Director is responsible for management oversight of the organization including design and implementation of all fundraising and development activities, supervising all staff, and working collaboratively with the Board of Trustees to ensure the financial integrity and accountability of the organization. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the Executive Director must possess the following attributes and experiences:

Inspiring Community Ambassador and Leader

Someone who can:

  • devote themselves to the patron experience;
  • model integrity, transparency and empathy;
  • lead by personal example;
  • hold him or herself personally accountable;
  • establish and maintain positive relationships with the Town of Manchester, its manager and Selectboard, and other regional community organizations and libraries.

Operational Experience and Expertise

Someone who can:

  • hire, manage, mentor and evaluate staff and is a proponent of professional development;
  • create and oversee administrative policies and procedures;
  • create, implement and manage the operating budget;
  • coordinate support and implement Board priorities;
  • oversee the maintenance and enhancement of Library facilities;
  • cultivate and integrate volunteers;
  • ensure stewardship of the endowment

Excellent Interpersonal Skills

Someone who:

  • is committed to collaboration and a team culture;
  • is supportive and affirms relationships;
  • has a positive perspective;
  • is proactive, with a great deal of initiative and a can-do attitude;
  • can work productively and positively with a wide range of diverse constituents.

Fundraising Acumen

Someone who:

  • has the ability to tell constituents where the library is headed, and why;
  • possesses the ability to build strong relationships with current donors, and cultivate new ones;
  • enjoys telling stories that resonate with donors;
  • has the knowledge of the basics of fundraising, including identifying, cultivating, soliciting and stewarding donors and prospects;
  • possesses the ability and courage to ask for money in a compelling and thoughtful manner.

KEY QUALIFICATIONS

  • A BA or BS is required; a Master of Library Science degree or Library Professional Certification preferable, but not absolutely essential;
  • Five years of non-profit management/administrative experience;
  • Expertise in fundraising, marketing and technology;
  • Excellent communication skills – written, editing, speaking and social media;
  • Willingness and ability to work flexible hours;
  • Avid reader;
  • Conviction in MCL’s culture, mission, and vision.

TO APPLY

Interested and qualified candidates are invited to contact the consultant in confidence. Candidates will ultimately need to submit the following materials as separate PDF documents:

  • A cover letter expressing their interest in this particular position.
  • A current résumé.
  • A list of five professional references with name, relationship, phone number, and email address of each (references will not be contacted without the candidate’s permission) to:

– Posted 4/15/22

Library Director – Bethel Library (Bethel, ME)

Position Description

The Bethel Library is seeking an outgoing, organized, and energetic individual to fill the position of Library Director. Bethel is located in Western Maine, on the banks of the Androscoggin River in the foothills of the White Mountains. The library is in Bethel’s historic district, facing the Bethel Common. The Bethel area is host to the Sunday River and Mount Abram ski areas, the Bethel Inn and Resort, and Gould Academy.

The Bethel Library Association is a private 501(c) 3 organization founded in 1879. It is overseen by a Board of Trustees and serves a combined population of about 4,000 people from the towns and townships of Bethel, Albany, Gilead, Greenwood, Mason, and Newry, as well as all students in the local school district. The Library Director reports to the Board and hires and supervises all staff, which currently consists of four part-time Assistant Librarians. The Library operates for a total of 22 hours a week, and is open part of every day except Sunday and holidays.

Continuing Responsibilities

The Library Director serves as the public face of the Bethel Library, including as appropriate or needed at the circulation desk, during programs, and at professional meetings and events. Innovative and strategic leadership, now more than ever in this era of pandemic, will be vital to the success of the Library as well as the Director. In particular, the Director will:

  • Plan programs and events that appeal to a wide range of community members.
  • Recommend policies, including as related to staffing, and draft the annual budget for the Board’s approval.
  • Oversee all aspects of the Library collection and operations, and approve expenditures as aligned with the budget.
  • Supervise the staff and remain current on professional developments, including attending Maine State Library meetings and events.
  • Work with the trustees on fundraising, and expand funding from grants, in support of Library operations.
  • Increase public knowledge about and use of the Library’s technological offerings (wi-fi, computers, printing).
  • Attend all Board meetings as a non-voting member, and Board committee meetings as necessary.  Keep the Board informed of proposed changes in Library operations, such as staffing or library hours.
  • Prepare reports for the Maine State Library, the Town of Bethel, and the Trustees.

Specific Objectives

  • In collaboration with the Board, increase Library and collection use, with a particular focus on programming and the number of opportunities that patrons, donors, and volunteers have to engage with the library, with a focus on non-traditional users.
  • Advise the Board on necessary upgrades to the library’s software systems.
  • Design and create, in coordination with the Board, a ‘Friends of the Bethel Library’ group to provide support and volunteers for fundraising and programs.

Desired Qualifications and Skills

  • A Bachelor’s degree is required.
  • A minimum of four years of professional public library experience is preferred.
  • Excellent interpersonal, communication, and writing skills.
  • Demonstrated collaborative team-oriented leadership and management experience, to include budgeting, organization, personnel, and public relations.
  • A desire to welcome all patrons in a non-judgmental and respectful manner to uphold the Library as a vibrant and welcoming public space.
  • The ability to develop the Library’s collection, including the selection and withdrawal of books, periodicals, audio-visual, and electronic materials.
  • A strong proficiency with computer and library technology and software, and social media.
  • The ability to multi-task with a focus on customer service.

Hours and Compensation

The Bethel Library Director is a 30-hour a week position with a starting salary of $36,400 a year. The position includes 15 days of paid personal leave.

How to Apply

Applicants should send their expression of interest, to include a resume and contact information for three professional references, one of which should be a supervisor, to BethelLibraryMETrustees@gmail.com.  Expressions of interest may also be mailed to:  Bethel Library, Attention Search Committee, P.O. Box 130, Bethel, ME 04217.

The position will remain open until filled.

– Posted 4/13/22

Library Director – Griffin Free Public Library (Auburn, NH)

The Griffin Free Public Library seeks a director who has a strong background in both management and working with the public. The director must be a strong leader, able to nurture positive internal and external relationships. The director will motivate, encourage teamwork and promote positive morale within the staff. The part-time nature of the five staff members requires good teamwork at all levels.
 
The director must also maintain a positive dialogue with the Board of Trustees and communicate effectively with the community. The library is fortunate to have a strong and supportive relationship with the Town. The needs and interests of the community are expected to influence the updating of the collection, services, and future development of the library. We desire that our library director be progressive and innovative in meeting the needs of the community, providing strong, credible leadership and creative problem solving.
 
The ideal candidate will have:
  • MLS or equivalent
  • 1-3 years administrative, managerial experience
  • Strong written, verbal, presentation, and organizational skills
  • Superb people skills and passionate about working with the public
  • Ability to motivate, mentor, encourage teamwork, support staff development, and promote positive
  • The ability to organize tasks and coordinate others to accomplish goals
  • Dynamic, friendly, energetic, with a sense of humor
  • Willingness to “wear all the hats”
  • Knowledge of current library services and information technology
  • Proficient in new/emerging computer and communication technology as well as social media
The following challenges await the new director:
  • Market library to broaden use and increase circulation of lending materials
  • Provide robust programing and encourage the staff to develop their own programs
  • Work with Friends to increase interest and membership
  • Inspire growth within the Library while still preserving the small town feel that is important to our patrons
  • Work to create mutually beneficial partnerships within the community
  • Embrace the challenge of facilitating the expansion of the library.
Information on Library Director position:
  • The library is open 34 hours per week, Tuesday through Saturday, year round, including one evening
  • The Director’s position is salaried, based on a 40 hour work week (qualifies for State Retirement System)
  • The Director reports to a three-member, elected Board of Trustees
  • Salary range: starting at $60,528
  • Excellent benefits, including PTO, medical insurance, state retirement and short term disability coverage
Information about Griffin Free Public Library and the Town of Auburn:
The Griffin Free Public Library has a current collection of about 17,000 items, and is a paying member of the State Downloadable eBooks program (Overdrive). The current circulation software is Koha through Bywater and the library subscribes to Wowbrary and other streaming services. It also houses a small museum with local historical artifacts.
 
Auburn (population 5,600) is a semi-rural community located in southeastern NH, near Manchester. A focal point of the Town is Lake Massabesic (about 2,500 acres), located mostly in Auburn. The watershed area provides a number of boating possibilities, fishing, and miles of trails for hiking and cross-country skiing and adds to the relaxed rural feel of the Town. Auburn is home to an active Audubon location, with many programs throughout the year, active Boy Scout and Girl Scout Troops and the Auburn Historical Association.
 
We are located close to Rte. 101 and Interstate 93, minutes from Manchester and Concord, close to the seacoast area and the many Portsmouth opportunities, and only one hour north of Boston. The Manchester-Boston Regional Airport provides travel on many major airlines.
 
The library has started work on an expansion by doing a site survey and is working with a library consultant. The Town has allocated money in the CIP to engage with an architect to work on a preliminary sketch later in 2022.
 
Auburn enjoys a good school system, with grades kindergarten through eighth located in the Village area. High School students attend Pinkerton Academy in nearby Derry, NH.
 
Email resume to: n.mayland@commcast.
 
Or mail to:
Griffin Free Public Library
Attn: Board of Trustees
PO Box 308
Auburn, NH 03032
 
Thank you for your interest in the director position at Griffin Free Public Library.
 
– Posted 4/11/22

Library Director – Brown Library, Sterling College (Craftsbury Common, VT)

The Library Director is the primary librarian for Sterling College’s Brown Library. The Director manages the library collections, oversees the library facility, and supervises student Library Assistants in the Work Program. The Library Director reports to the Dean of Academics.

This position is a part-time role (0.5 FTE), with specific working hours flexible and negotiable but required to meet the needs of the college. Projected start date is August 2022, or before.

The full position description, salary, benefits, and application instructions can be found here.

– Posted 3/29/22

Library Director – Woodbury Community Library (Woodbury, VT)

Woodbury Community Library is seeking a friendly and collaborative individual to serve as the primary staff person and director of the library. The library director will be expected to uphold the threefold mission of Woodbury Community Library: to provide free public access to diverse library materials and programs intended to interest, inform, and enlighten our community; promote curiosity and inquiry, literacy and learning, and intellectual freedom for all; and to remain trusted and valued through the unbiased provision of library services.

This is a part time position of 10-20 hours per week and may include morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend hours. The director reports to the Library Board of Trustees.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Supervision of library staff and volunteers
  • Planning and implementation of library programs
  • Delivery of circulation services
  • Management of digital outreach
  • Development of the library collection
  • Maintenance of library technology
  • Collaboration with community partners

Desired Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Bachelor’s Degree preferred, with previous experience working in a library. Possession of a Vermont Certificate of Public Librarianship or willingness to pursue a certificate is required.
  • Knowledge of library policies and library procedures
  • Familiarity with use and administration of Integrated Library Systems
  • Strong customer service and communication skills required
  • Ability to work independently and as a team member
  • Detail oriented, organized and able to set priorities
  • Ability to communicate effectively and courteously
  • Ability and desire to serve community members of all ages
  • Ability to handle and resolve disruptive behavior effectively
  • Possession of basic technical skills

Compensation depends on experience and skills, starting at $18.00 per hour with room for growth. A detailed job description is available upon request.

To apply please submit a letter of interest, resume, and three references to woodburylibrarydirector@gmail.com. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

– Posted 3/29/22

Library Director – Berlin Free Town Library (Rensselaer County, NY)

The Berlin Free Town Library is seeking an energetic and creative leader with a passionate commitment to public library service for the position of Library Director.  This position offers a unique opportunity to reimagine the library’s role in the community.

The Library Director reports to the Board of Trustees and holds primary responsibility for the overall operation and management of the Library. Duties include, but are not limited to, building community and professional relationships, planning and implementing library programs and services, managing circulation desk operations, maintaining and developing the collection, functioning within the budget, supervising library personnel, and managing the library facility. More information about the library and a detailed job description can be found on the library’s website–https://www.bftl.org/. As an official representative of the library to the Berlin Community, the Library Director will demonstrate an enthusiasm for community engagement and establish effective working relationships throughout the community.

The Berlin Free Town Library strives to provide access to information, opportunities for lifelong learning, and a gathering place for the community. A Free Association Library and a member of the Upper Hudson Library System, the library serves a user population of approximately 1,800 with a total annual operating budget of $50,000. The library occupies a beautiful 2,800-square-foot facility in the Town of Berlin, which is nestled in the rolling Taconic Hills where natural beauty and outdoor activities abound.

The minimum qualifications for this position include completion of sixty (60) credit hours from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university and three (3) years of professional experience which includes some supervisory and administrative responsibilities. The library welcomes interested applicants that meet or exceed these minimum qualifications, up to and including a Master’s Degree in library science or equivalent from a school that is accredited by the American Library Association.

This is a part-time position (approximately 20 hr. per week) with a starting salary range of $20,000-23,000, commensurate with experience. Please submit a resume, cover letter, and the names and contact information for three professional references by email to Cristi Lamontagne, Personnel Committee Chair at bftlboard@gmail.com.

Applications must be received no later than December 3, 2021.

– Posted 11/9/21

Library Director – R.K. Kittay Library (Rupert, VT)

The RK Kittay Library in Rupert, Vermont is seeking a Library Director.  The Director Reports to the Board of Trustees and is 10 hours per week, not to exceed 40 per month.  The pay rate is $15/hour.

Responsibilities include:

  • Selecting, purchasing and preparing books for circulation
  • Plan and implement programs/events for all ages
  • Recruit and train volunteers.
  • Coordinate schedule for open hours
  • Collecting monthly statistics
  • Providing customer service

Skills must include:

  • Basic knowledge of libraries and how they function
  • Excellent communication (oral and written)
  • Technology:  assist patrons with devices, maintain library computers, update social media and website
  • Ability to work within a budget

Experience/Education:
A college degree and related experience and knowledge of library functions or the willingness to pursue Vermont Public Library Certification.

Other:
Understanding the uniqueness and needs of the Rupert community is a must.  Rupert is a town of 700 residents spread out over 44.6 square miles.  The Library is currently open 7 hours a week with plans to resume 12 open hours soon.  The candidate must be energetic, organized, and able to stoop, lift and carry up to 20 pounds

The above job description describes the general work to be performed; it is not meant to be an all-inclusive list of every responsibility and duties required.

If interested, please send letter of interest, resume and references to the Board President, Judy Zinn: judybillzinn@hotmail.com.  Application deadline is December 15, 2021.

– Updated 11/9/21

Director – Bent Northrop Memorial Library (Fairfield, VT)

Bent Northrop Memorial Library seeks a dynamic, innovative, collaborative, Director to join our library, the heart and hearth of Fairfield, VT (population, 1900). The successful candidate will exhibit an energetic and positive spirit while maintaining a safe and inviting environment for pre-school to adult patrons. They will be eager to connect with community members through innovative programming, be willing to learn new things, and be able to balance details with flexibility.

The Director, at 32 hours/week, will be responsible for planning and implementing programs for children 0-18 and adults. Other responsibilities include: maintain library materials and collections; interact with local school, community organizations, and Board of Trustees; manage the facility; provide technological assistance; build and manage budget, and supervise Assistant Librarian and other library staff. Job description and requirements can be found at https://www.bentnorthrop.org/about.html.

Preference will be given to candidates with MLS, Vermont Public Library Certification and/or related experience or willingness to pursue certification. Salary commensurate with experience and education. Benefits included. The position includes some evenings and Saturdays. If interested, please send a cover letter, resume, and 3 professional references to BNMLhiringcommittee@gmail.com. Post open until position is filled.

– Posted 10/19/21