Youth Services Librarian – Brookline Public Library (Brookline, NH)

YOUTH SERVICES LIBRARIAN, FULL-TIME, Brookline Public Library, Brookline, NH

SALARY: $25/hour

HOURS: 40

Summary of Position: The town of Brookline, New Hampshire (5,800 pop), with its unique blend of rural charm and vibrant community, is seeking a full time Youth Services Librarian. Hours include a combination of weekdays, some evenings, and Saturdays. A positive, can-do attitude and a sense of humor are vital in this role.

The Youth Services Librarian is a dynamic, innovative & dedicated professional Librarian with a genuine passion for and commitment to working with, engaging & inspiring children of all ages and their caregivers. They plan and coordinate all aspects of youth services including collection development, community outreach and programming, as well as supervising youth services staff. All Brookline Public Library staff work in a team-oriented environment and, under the supervision of the Library Director, are responsible for assisting with library circulation, reference, readers’ advisory, collection promotion, and programming in both adult and youth service areas.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

Responsible for all aspects of Youth Services for the Library
Maintain a fun, safe, and positive environment which encourages intellectual curiosity and a love of reading.
Cultivate a contemporary collection for youth ages 0-18, guided by professional reviews and suggestions from staff and patrons.
Supervises the daily operation of the youth room and the young adult area. Upholds the library’s behavior and child safety policies.
Plan, organize, and implement programs for youth birth to 18, including coordinating with other community stakeholders.
Provide outreach services and community relations activities to area schools, after school programs, and other community groups.
Shelve Youth Services library materials and perform other stack maintenance activities including shelf reading, tidying, and weeding.
Create book displays that promote the library’s youth collections.
Stay current on trends and practices related to library youth services.
Supervise Library Assistant for Youth Services, Pages, and Volunteers.
Serve as the Library Supervisor in absence of the Library Director
Deliver excellent customer service for all visitors to the library.
Represent the library in local and regional community and professional activities.
Provide readers’ advisory and reference services and refers patrons to additional resources as appropriate.
Assist patrons with use of library services and equipment.
Perform all other related duties as needed including, but not limited to:
- Staff the circulation desk and perform circulation functions including checking items in/out, reserving and renewing materials, answering the phone, collecting fees, and maintaining patron records.
- Train Library Pages, Substitutes and Volunteers
- Assist in maintaining the library’s website and social media.
- May assist with Youth Services sections of the State Library Report and town Annual Report.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Ability to deal courteously and efficiently with a diverse population of library patrons.
Demonstrated knowledge of youth literature and youth programming needs
Excellent general office, computer, and technology skills including working in a Windows environment, familiarity with Web browsers and Microsoft software, experience with any ILS software.
Comfortable in a fast-paced environment and able to manage time effectively.
Capacity to work both independently with minimal supervision and as part of a team
Effective written and spoken communication skills, and the ability to follow oral and written instructions.
Deliver excellent customer service for all visitors to the library.
Proven reader’s advisory skills
Available to work a flexible schedule including evening and weekend hours.
Physically able to carry/lift to 35lbs, bend low and reach high to shelve books, and push a library cart.
Creativity and a sense of humor preferred.

Education, Experience and Training:

An ALA-accredited Master’s in Library and Information Science is preferred.
A minimum of five (5) years in a library setting, with at least three (3) years of recent experience in Youth Services is preferred.
Demonstrated aptitude for programming and direction in library youth services.

Proven skills in storytelling and working with children, especially pre-school children, and their parents.

Benefits: Full medical and dental insurance, paid holidays, sick and personal time, NH Retirement.

To Apply: Please send cover letter, resume and contact information for three professional references to: Diane Lynch, Brookline Public Library Director at liibrary.director@brooklinenh.gov

This position will remain open until filled.

The Brookline Public Library is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

– Posted 10/31/24

Outreach and Programming Library Assistant – Richmond Free Library (Richmond, VT)

The Richmond Free Library is seeking an Outreach and Programming Library Assistant. This position is ideal for someone who loves the role and potential of libraries, enjoys working with people, and is a team player who can work independently and see projects to completion.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Richmond Free Library

Library Assistant 2: Outreach and Programming

Part-time, 24 hours per week

Some evening and weekend hours required

The Outreach and Programming Librarian is responsible for developing and implementing programming for the library (primarily adult, with some support of youth and family programs) and promoting the Richmond Free Library’s services, resources, and programs in the community. This person will also curate our art displays and assist with book displays and our growing Library of Things. In addition, this person will assist patrons and carry out general library services and duties as needed.

Essential Job Functions

Develops and implements effective programming and events for adults, and in conjunction with youth librarian for families and youth.
Develops, implements and monitors promotion and outreach about programs & library services including communication through online portals, such as our webpage, Facebook and Instagram pages, and Front Porch Forum; posters; local print newspapers and online calendars with direction from the Director and Youth Librarian.
Organizes art shows for library gallery space.
Monitors, curates and grows the Library of Things in conjunction with the Director.
Knowledge of and ability to facilitate use of digital resources such as Libby, Hoopla and Library’s catalog with patrons.
Fosters collaborative relationships with individuals and organizations.
Assists patrons and carries out general library services as needed.

Experience and Qualifications

Professional experience in a public library setting is preferred.
Familiarity with and passion for the role and importance of public libraries.
Demonstrated results in creating engaging, successful programming, and event management with diverse topics.
Familiarity with digital communication avenues and demonstrated ability to promote/market events, programs and services through various channels.
Knowledge of PC/Windows functions and applications (including Microsoft Office, Internet browsers, associated devices, email applications, basic technical trouble-shooting).
Attention to detail and careful accuracy in work.
Excellent written and verbal skills and public speaking ability.
Experience working with volunteers is preferred.

Education

BA or BS required.

Physical Requirements: Work is performed under typical library and office conditions. Duties require intermittent light to moderate physical effort in carrying, lifting, or moving materials, boxes, or equipment. Duties may also include some general maintenance, such as light cleaning, removal of trash and recycling, and snow shoveling.

Compensation: This is a part-time position of 24 hours per week and includes paid holidays, vacation, sick time and retirement benefits through VMERS. This role requires some weekend and evening availability. Pay begins at $20.91/hr.

Application review will begin on October 2nd and continue until the position is filled.

Please send a cover letter, resume and three references to Richmond Free Library, Assistant Director, Wendy DeForest, at wdeforest@richmondvt.gov or Richmond Free Library, PO Box 997, Richmond VT 05477.

– Posted 9/18/24

Library Director – Maxfield Public Library (Loudon, NH)

The Maxfield Public Library is seeking a new Library Director who is enthusiastic, knowledgeable, professional, and possesses excellent leadership skills.

The Maxfield Public Library recently received a modern expansion and boasts a fireplace reading area, children’s craft and activities room, and large multi-purpose meeting room with a kitchenette and an array of digital media equipment.

Loudon is only 5 miles from Concord, the State Capitol. Other great attractions like the White Mountains, Boston, the seacoast, and skiing, are all within a one-hour drive. Loudon is a quaint New Hampshire town and nearly half of our residents are registered library card holders and patrons of the Library. The new Library Director will be leading our outstanding current staff including a full-time Youth Services Librarian.

Salary and Benefits:

Full time, 40 hours per week, position with an annual salary range of $51,000 to $56,000. Salary is commensurate with experience and education. A full benefits package includes health, dental, life insurance, NH State Retirement System, and education reimbursement.

The Maxfield Library Trustees are also contributing a $1,000 signing bonus.

Requirements:

A Bachelor’s Degree is required, with at least three years library or equivalent experience. A Master of Library Science from an ALA accredited institution is preferred. Current MLS candidates are encouraged to apply. Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides similar knowledge, ability, and skills may be considered.

Responsibilities:

Except as specifically noted, the following functions are considered fundamental to this position:

Administers and oversees all aspects of library operations, including plans and procedures; reports and presentations; personnel selection, supervision and performance evaluations; budgeting and expenditures using Quickbooks; collection development and maintenance; materials processing; oversight of building and grounds maintenance; automation and the use of appropriate technology; grant writing; programming; marketing; and vendor and community relations.

Provides positive leadership for the staff. Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with library patrons and responds positively to community requests and input. Positive working relationship and regular communication with the Library Trustees.

Represents the Library and is actively involved with the community and makes a strong effort to involve the Maxfield Public Library in local Loudon events, functions, local grade school, and organizations.

Ensures that the Maxfield Public Library is up to date with current trends along with new and innovative ideas to ensure the best possible experience for the community.

Apply Now

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, a resume with examples of accomplishments, and two (2) professional references. Recent MLS graduates and candidates are encouraged to apply. Send resumes and references to: emosermaxlib@loudonnh.org Position is open until filled and application review begins September 9, 2024. Complete job description is available at http://maxfieldlibrary.com

All applicants are subject to background check.

Maxfield Public Library is an Equal Opportunity employer.

– Posted 8/27/24

Assistant Director – Richards Free Library (Newport, NH)

The Richards Free Library of Newport NH seeks a tech savvy, forward-thinking individual with proven management skills in a public library to serve as Assistant Director.

Our library is a 501(c)3 non-profit entity. The building is an 1899 colonial revival mansion that has been on the national registry of historic buildings since 1984. The Board of Trustees for the library consists of 1 elected member and 8 appointed members. Employing 9 staff members, 3 of those full-time, we are open 47 hours weekly.

With 2400 registered patrons in a town with a population of 6300, we enjoy wide community support. Our regular programming includes a robust summer reading program for all ages, after school programs for children and teens, monthly programs for adults, and 6 book clubs.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Manages the library and supervises staff in the absence of the library director.
Attends department head meetings in the absence of the library director.
Conducts staff meetings in the absence of the library director.
Runs payroll, pays bills, does bank deposits in the absence of the library director.
Assists the library director in formulating the annual budget.
Maintains the library’s OPAC.
Runs and manages monthly materials reports.
Catalogs all adult and children’s materials.
Trains and supervises staff and volunteers in processing materials.
Assists with adult collection development.
Assists with regular weeding of the collection.
Plans and manages an annual inventory of the collection.
Performs ILL services including training a back-up staff member in those procedures.
Oversees marketing and social media.
Orders library supplies, office supplies, and janitorial supplies.
Performs all duties of the circulation desk including assisting patrons with library needs including quick reference, detailed research, reader’s advisory assistance, explanation of policies and procedures to the public, room scheduling.
Troubleshoots computer, printer and other equipment issues.
Trains staff in library systems, procedures and policies.
Assists with development and coordination of special projects, programs and grant funding.
Performs other duties as assigned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Be physically able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
Skill in the latest computer technology.
Ability to adopt and integrate emerging technologies.
Effective written and oral communication skills.
Comfort with presenting to groups and teaching classes.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, staff of other libraries, and the public.
Ability to conduct oneself with tact and courtesy.
Have a sense of humor and a commitment to friendly customer service.
Ability to work evenings and weekends as scheduled.
Ability to form relationships that give the library a high profile role in the community.

QUALIFICATIONS

Master’s Degree in Library Science from an ALA accredited institution and three years of professional library work including at least one year of supervisory experience at a public library is required.

Status: Full-time salary exempt

Salary: 45,000-55,000
Closing Date: September 6, 2024

To Apply: Send resume, cover letter, and three references to director@newport.lib.nh.us

– Posted 8/12/24

Library Director – Richmond Free Library (Richmond, Vermont)

Richmond Free Library is a vital and valued institution in our community and we are looking for an experienced and passionate Library Director who will continue to build strong relationships, create vibrant programs and curate a collection that meet the needs of a diverse group of patrons. The Library Director will work closely with the Trustees to keep the library financially sound, develop and implement Strategic Plans, and foster a welcoming environment for all.

Our Library: Richmond Free Library is a public, municipal library, funded by the voters as part of the Town budget and governed by an elected Board of Trustees. Our library serves the 4,167 citizens of Richmond and the 1,301 residents of Bolton and is part of Vermont’s Home Card system. The library is housed in a circa 1879 repurposed church owned by the Town of Richmond in the heart of our walkable downtown. The Library also houses a community meeting space which is used for programming, town government and nonprofit organizations and is rented to the public.

Key Responsibilities:

Oversees all library operations and activities.
Hires and manages staff, including training, scheduling and evaluation.
Develops and manages the collection to serve all members of our diverse community.
Explores and interprets community needs to inform programming for all ages.
Oversees and updates library communications to the community, including through the website and social media.
Develops an annual budget, in collaboration with the Board of Trustees, and tracks and administers Library finances.
Maintains the integrity of library databases and generates reports using that data.
Attends monthly meetings and communicates regularly with the Board of Trustees on operational, fiscal, staffing, and facilities issues and carries out policies as adopted by the Board.
Works with municipal administration as a department head and adheres to Town policies (including personnel and purchasing), unless excepted by Library Trustees.
Oversees building maintenance, security and space rentals.
Collaborates with the Friends of Richmond Free Library, peer libraries and other organizations to develop and fund programming and to follow best practices .
Works with the Town of Richmond and Vermont Department of Libraries for contracted services, grant funding and to data reporting.

Supervisory Responsibilities: The Library Director currently supervises a staff of 5 full- and part-time employees.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

A strong commitment to meeting the needs of all citizens in our diverse community.
Experience in public library administration, including staff supervision.
Well organized and able to multi-task and provide quality customer service.
Positive and effective communications skills with staff, patrons, Town officials, Board of Trustees, and other constituencies.
Understanding of state and federal statutes regulating public libraries.
Strong proficiency in library technology and information systems.
Ability to understand and analyze new technologies to enhance library services.

Educational/Professional Requirements:

A Masters in Library Science from an ALA-accredited program and 3+ years of relevant library experience is strongly recommended. A BA or BS degree in a related field plus a Vermont Certificate of Public Librarianship and 3+ years of relevant experience is a minimum requirement.

Hours and Compensation: This is a 32 hour/week position and the annual salary range is $54,900-$59,900, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Competitive benefits include health insurance, paid vacation, VMERS retirement plan and disability.

For more information, go to https://www.richmondfreelibraryvt.org and click on “We’re Hiring”

To apply: Please submit a cover letter and resume to RichmondVTLibrarySearch@gmail.com The application deadline is August 15, 2024.

– Posted 7/28/24

Library Director – Troy Public Library (Troy, NY)

The Board of Trustees of the Troy Public Library is seeking a community-minded, forward-thinking individual to serve in the position of Library Director. The position combines an exciting mix of opportunities and challenges for an engaged and energetic library professional. The Director will be an experienced, effective leader with a commitment to providing our community with the very best of public library services.

Position
The Library Director is responsible for directing, planning, organizing, and coordinating all aspects of public library services and the work of the library and the staff.

Within the library organization, the Director develops and recommends policies to the Board of Trustees and implements policies as they are adopted. The Director also works with the Board to ensure that the Library's historic structures meet the current needs of our community. The Director maintains a strong working relationship and excellent lines of communication with the Board. In collaboration with the Library’s Department Heads, the Director manages a staff of 30 employees. The Director administers personnel policies and oversees annual performance reviews of staff members.

In the community, the Library Director pursues public relations opportunities and represents the library to governmental agencies and community groups. The Director participates in professional organizations, systems meetings, and continuing education workshops and other professional development. The Director works collaboratively with the Friends of the Troy Public Library.

The starting salary for this position is $90,000 – $100,000, based on the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.

This full-time position features a comprehensive benefits package, which includes participation in the New York State Retirement System. Please note that this is a Director 1 civil service position under the Troy Civil Service Commission. Appointment to this position will be provisional, with permanent appointment contingent upon passing the Troy Civil Service Exam.

About the Troy Public Library and the City of Troy
Troy Public Library is a NYS Special District Library with a budget of approximately $1.7m and has enjoyed a recent trend of increased funding support. The library is governed by a seven member publicly elected Board of Trustees. The Troy Public Library serves its growing population of just over 50,000 from two locations. The Main Library is housed in a 127-year-old, purpose-built structure that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Library’s Lansingburgh Branch is also in a historic structure.

Troy is home to a diverse community with renowned entertainment venues and a bustling cultural scene. The region has access to many recreational activities with easy access to areas for hiking, biking, skiing, swimming and more. Its proximity to major cities such as New York City, Boston, and Montreal make Troy a very attractive place to live and work.

Minimum Requirements
Minimum Qualifications: A) Possession of a Master’s Degree in Library Science (MLS) or a Master’s Degree of Library and Information Science (MLIS) from a school accredited by the American Library Association AND B) Eligibility for a NYS Public Librarian’s professional certificate at time of application. AND C) Five (5) years of progressively more responsible experience in a public library.

How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a resume, concise cover letter, and three professional references to the Search Committee at tpldirectorapplications@gmail.com. The search deadline has been extended to August 9th, 2024. Applications received after this date may be considered but will not be given priority.

– Posted 7/24/24

Temporary Assistant Librarian – Essex Free Library (Essex, VT)

The Essex Free Library in Essex, VT is receiving applications for temporary employment for an Assistant Librarian.

The qualified candidate will have interest, experience, and familiarity with literature, excellent patron service skills, and proficient technology skills. Some college experience and some prior library experience is desired. The salary for this role is $17-$19 per hour depending on qualifications and experience of the candidate.

This role is Temporary and is anticipated to last for approximately 18 weeks. The chosen candidate will work Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm and every other Saturday from 9am to 2pm. On weeks when they are working on Saturday, their Monday hours would be 9am to 12pm. Each week’s total is approximately 40 hours. There may be an opportunity for the chosen candidate to join the library’s substitute pool at the end of this assignment.

Applications can be submitted online at https://essexvt.bamboohr.com/careers/133, or interested candidates can pick up a paper application at 81 Main St, Essex Junction, VT 05452. This position is open until filled.

The Town of Essex is an equal opportunity employer.

– Posted 7/18/24

Youth Services Librarian – Jeudevine Memorial Library (Hardwick, VT)

The Youth Services Librarian is responsible for all aspects of library service relevant to patrons from birth through young adulthood and their families. This work includes year-round programming, community outreach, assisting with collection development and maintenance, and seeking ways to promote library services to young people and families. Additionally, the youth
librarian assists in the library’s day-to-day operations as needed.

The Jeudevine is a municipal library. This is a part-time professional position for the town of Hardwick.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Creates, plans, and presents diverse and creative programs for children, their caregivers, and teens, including story time, craft programs, the summer reading program, and after-school and homeschool programs; facilitates the Teen Advisory Board
Plans and provides outreach services for area schools, preschools, daycares, caregivers and community organizations.
Assists in the selection and maintenance of the birth through Young Adult collections.
Responsible for creating promotional materials for all youth-related programming, including posters, social media, press releases and the library’s website.
Keeps informed of trends in children’s literature, library services and issues affecting children.
Represents library services for young people outside the library at relevant community events and meetings.
Responsible for creating a welcoming and spirited space in the youth area of the library.
Ability to perform all daily operations of the circulation desk when needed.
Prepares narrative report ahead of monthly board of trustees meetings.
Assists with grant-writing opportunities to support youth materials and programs.
Collaborates with staff, patrons, and others to celebrate everything the library offers as a hub for learning and community.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Primary functions require sufficient physical ability and mobility to work in an office setting, stand or sit for prolonged periods, occasionally stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, reach, and twist, lift, carry, push, and pull light to moderate amounts of weight, operate office equipment requiring repetitive hand movement and fine coordination, including use of a computer keyboard, and verbally communicate to exchange information. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable people with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Ability to work well under stress and maintain a welcoming attitude is essential.
Computer literacy.
Must possess creativity, motivation, flexibility, excellent written and verbal communication skills, imagination, and enthusiasm.
Considerable knowledge of children’s literature and literacy development for children from birth through young adulthood and willingness to continue learning through in-person workshops and webinars.
Previous experience and demonstrated ability to work with children, teens, and families.
Able to work independently and as part of a team with staff, patrons, community members and organizations.
Capacity to manage time and effectively perform time-sensitive tasks.
Demonstrate a working knowledge of library principles and practices.
Flexibility to work occasional evenings and Saturdays, substitute for other staff and attend meetings as needed.
Capacity to lead the successful creation, facilitation, and evaluation of programs and carry out work unsupervised with personal initiative.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
A BA or BS degree in a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience, along with a Vermont Certificate of Public Librarianship or a willingness to acquire one, is required. MLS from an ALA-accredited program is preferred. Prior work experience with children, teens, and/or families is required. Library experience is preferred.

HOURS AND COMPENSATION
20-hour work week is generally split over three days: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, or Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. Part-time employees receive some paid holiday, personal, sick, and vacation hours. $19.65/hour.

How To Apply: Please send a cover letter, resume, and contacts for three references to the library director, Diane Grenkow, at jeudevinelibrary@hardwickvt.gov with the subject line Youth
Services Librarian. The deadline for applications is July 14, 2024.

– Posted 7/2/24

Director – Sutton Free Library (Sutton, NH)

The Sutton Free Library (SFL) seeks a Director (30-40 hours a week) who will be engaged, enthusiastic, and passionate about supporting the Library and the residents of Sutton.

The Sutton Free Library (SFL) is a small rural library serving a town of approximately 2,000 residents. Many programs and services are relatively new to the community as an aggressive revitalization of the library is underway. The SFL Director reports to the SFL Board of Trustees and may serve more than half of their allotted work hours as a solo staff member. Staff members wear numerous and varied hats in this patron-focused environment. A strong command of technology is highly valued while appreciation for classic library processes is essential.

Key Responsibilities:

Oversees daily library operations, including hiring and management of staff.
Communicates regularly and consistently with the SFL Board of Trustees and the Town of Sutton.
Oversees and updates library communications to the community, including through the website and social media.
Envisions and interprets community needs to inform materials selection and programming.
Develops and recommends an annual budget, in collaboration with the Board of Trustees, and tracks and administers expenditures.
Advises the Library Board on operational, fiscal, staffing, and facilities issues.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Well organized and able to multi-task and provide quality customer service.
Positive and effective communications skills with library patrons, the Town of Sutton, Board of Trustees, and other constituencies.
Experience in public library administration.
Understanding of state and federal statues regulating public libraries.
Strong proficiency in computers, library technology, internet, and social media. Experience with the Apollo or other OPAC systems is preferred.

Educational/Professional Requirements:

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
Three to five years of relevant library work experience.

Essential Functions:

Ability to stand for extended periods; reach overhead; use hands, fingers; bend, stoop, and kneel.
Ability to lift and carry materials weighing up to 50 pounds; operate a wheeled book cart weighing up to 140 pounds.

Compensation: Minimum salary is $42,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Competitive benefits package including health, vacation, short-term and long-term disability.
Employees of the SFL are also eligible for a generous leave policy.

To apply: Please submit a cover letter and resume to SuttonLibrarySearch@gmail.com. Applications will be reviewed as they are submitted and the position will remain open until filled.

– Posted 6/24/24

Library Director – Richards Free Library (Newport, NH)

The Richards Free Library is seeking an innovative, creative, tech savvy, and forward-thinking leader with proven management skills in a public library to serve as Library Director. The library is a 501(c)3 non-profit entity and the building at 58 N. Main St has been on the national registry of historic buildings since 1984.

The library employs 9 staff members including three full-time positions, with a total full time equivalent of 5.5. The Friends of the Richards Free Library are an active group, volunteering at the library once a month and organizing two large annual fundraisers: a membership drive, and a book sale. The Board of Trustees consists of 1 town elected trustee and 8 self-appointed trustees.

The 2024 Operating Budget of $495,200 includes:

$366,000 from the town
$98,000 from grants, fees, and donations
$24,500 from the Rollins Fund- an endowment specifically for building maintenance
$5,500 from the Holden Yeoman’s Fund- an endowment specifically for the Hale Award
$1,200 from the Harwick Fund- an endowment specifically for children’s books

The library enjoys wide community support. With 2400 registered patrons, the library is always busy. Some of our regular programming includes: weekly story time, summer story time at the local farmer’s market, an average of three teen afterschool programs each week, a knitting group, a poetry group, a writers’ group, two book clubs for adults, two book clubs for teens, and two book clubs for kids.

The library hosts three large annual events: Bookport: a Local Author Celebration in March, the Library Book Festival during Apple Pie Craft Fair in August, and the Hale Award honoring an author with a connection to New England in the fall. The Library Director works with the staff to organize Bookport; works with the Friends, staff and trustees to organize the Book Festival; and works with the trustees, staff, and Hale board of Judges to organize the Hale Award. Of course, we also host a Summer Reading Program with reading challenges and events for children, teens, and adults, with an average of 125 participants each year.

Newport, New Hampshire (population 6300) is located in the Dartmouth/Lake Sunapee region of New Hampshire. The community boasts a vibrant recreation department with a new facility planned to open in early 2025, an active Opera House Association, and The Library Arts Center located in the Library’s carriage house. The Richards Free Library acts as Fiscal Agent for the Library Arts Center.

A Master’s Degree in Library Science from an ALA accredited school with five years of professional library work and three years of administrative and supervisory responsibility at a public library is required.

The pay range is $60,000 -$70,000 dependent upon qualifications and experience. For a detailed job description, visit richardsfreelib.org.

Apply with cover letter, resume, and three references to directorsearch@newport.lib.nh.us by July 12, 2024.

LIBRARY DIRECTOR

JOB DESCRIPTION

Responsible for administrative, supervisory and management duties according to library policies.
Works closely with board of trustees, attends and reports at all board meetings, and provides orientation for new board members.
Attends bi-weekly town department head meetings.
Develops library collections, services and programs.
Prepares annual budget with trustees and presents at town budget hearings.
Works with Assistant Director and Youth Services Librarian to find, apply for, and report on grant opportunities.
Responsible for payroll for library and arts center including filing with the IRS and NH Employment Security.
Handles personnel matters including hiring, promoting and firing with the trustees.
Acts as library’s public relations representative in the community.
Responsible for material, equipment and service expenditures.
Exercises leadership in the further development of library services in community, region and state.
Develops professional skills through continuing education.
Participates in state, regional and national library organizations.
Assumes other duties as needed.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Be physically able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation
Knowledge of a variety of hardware and software as well as Internet services
Ability to use computers and to utilize computer databases
Effective written and oral communication skills
Comfort with presenting to groups and teaching classes
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, staff of other libraries, and the public
Ability to conduct oneself with tact and courtesy

– Posted 6/21/24