The Utica Public Library
Board of Trustees (NY) seeks an experienced library professional and
exceptional communicator to lead the organization as the next Library
Director. The Utica Public Library is a cherished historic landmark on
the National Register of Historic Places, and a community hub that
provides essential library services and collections to a diverse and
high-needs patron population. Recently, the 120-year-old standalone
location underwent a restoration process, resulting in a revitalized
physical space for the 31,000-square-foot building. An accomplished and
imaginative staff of 18 FTE offers library services that address the
needs of its unique and diverse patron base with a budget of $1.8
million. The expertise, compassion, and fortitude of library staff is
evident through mutually beneficial local and school partnerships,
well-attended library programs, and a positive working environment. The
next Library Director will lead this competent team of library staff,
have strong working relationships with various government leaders, and
report to a supportive, and collaborative fifteen-member Board of
Trustees.
Key initiatives of
this role will include fund development for upcoming capital campaigns
and infrastructure improvement projects for the building, maintaining
established relationships with local organizations, cultivating new
relationships as a key partner in the community, library policy
development, and long-range plan implementation. This individual will be
accessible to the library staff, board, and wider community as a
representative of the library, utilizing keen networking abilities and
being a good source of communication both internally and externally.
The
city of Utica is the county seat of Oneida County and has a population
of 65,000. Located on the Mohawk River at the foot of the Adirondack Mountains,
Utica has a rich history as a river-town, and much to offer with a
variety of outdoor recreational activities such as hiking at F.T. Proctor Park or Roscoe Conkling Park, biking the Erie Canalway Trail, or riding the Adirondack Scenic Railroad. There are plentiful arts and cultural attractions, including the Munson Museum, the Broadway Theater League of Utica, and the historic Stanley Theater. Numerous farmers’ markets, open mic nights, and free concert-series
provide diverse and accessible entertainment. Famous for its unique
cuisine, the city offers several restaurants with waterfront views and
specialty dishes that can only be found in Utica. Recently recognized by
Travel + Leisure magazine for its affordability, Utica is located within a 3.5- to 4-hour drive of Toronto, Montreal, Boston, New York City, and Philadelphia.
Responsibilities: The
Library Director will oversee operations and personnel, ensuring that
staff provide quality, patron-oriented library services to the public;
ensure the entire community is aware of Utica Public Library’s programs
and services through effective public relations; ensure the facility is
welcoming and suitable for the public and staff; assess the library's
services and collections aligning them with the mission and strategic
plan; develop an annual budget; monitor revenue and expenditures;
prepare financial administration and reports to the Board of Trustees;
participate and lead fund development; research, identify, and apply for
alternative revenue streams; and regularly communicate progress towards
goals to internal and external audiences. Additional responsibilities
are outlined in the job description.
Qualifications: Master's Degree in Library Information Science from an ALA accredited University, a New York State Public Library Certificate
(or the ability to obtain certificate prior to start date), five years
public library experience with increasing management responsibility, a
demonstrated commitment to patron-centered library service and extensive
community involvement and outreach. Familiarity with New York State
Public Library Systems is preferred.
Compensation: The hiring salary range is $85,000 – $110,000 (with placement negotiable dependent on experience and qualifications) and an excellent fringe benefits package.
For further information, contact Bradbury Miller Associates. Interested candidates should submit their resume through the application portal by selecting the position and then the “Apply” button. This position closes on Sunday, August 3, 2025.
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