Director of Library Services - The Town of West Hartford

Director of Library Services - The Town of West Hartford, with a population of 63,268, is a vibrant and diverse community, which prides itself on its quality municipal services, educational opportunities, citizen involvement and cultural events. West Hartford has been repeatedly recognized for these qualities by its citizens, visitors and numerous educational and lifestyle studies including Time/Money Magazine‘s Top 50 Small Cities for Best Places to Live 2014. With a history dating back over a century, the West Hartford Library has evolved from an initial collection of 78 books donated by Noah Webster to a system of three facilities with over 240,000 volumes, a growing collection of downloadable materials, seventy online research databases, a digital collection, public computer labs, a local history room, professional information and research services, and a varied and wide-ranging selection of programs for all ages. Working closely with the community, the library develops and maintains services that reflect the diverse needs and interests of the town including reading, listening and viewing for pleasure, life-long learning, digital literacy, cultural appreciation and citizenship preparation. Emphasis is placed on accessibility to the library’s offerings by providing WI-FI access, a user-friendly website featuring 24/7 access to downloadable and digital materials, homebound loan delivery, and equipment for individuals with vision, mobility and hearing challenges. The library's size and central location make it the library of choice for many users in the Greater Hartford area. The town is currently seeking an experienced, community-oriented, visionary leader for the position of Director of Library Services. Reporting to a library board appointed by the West Hartford Town Council and coordinating operations with the town manager, the successful candidate will be responsible for managing and providing leadership in planning, directing and coordinating all library activities. The position will manage a $3+ million dollar operating budget, supervise 24 full-time and 85 part-time (20.62 FTEs) staff, and work closely with municipal departments, community leaders, community organizations, and the West Hartford Board of Education to identify and meet community needs. The position requires an ALA-accredited MLS and a minimum of eight (8) years’ experience in professional library work (public library preferred) that includes five years’ supervisory experience. The salary range for this position is $81,000 - $144,000 and includes a competitive benefit program. The starting annual salary will be based upon the qualifications and experience of the successful candidate. To apply visit the Town of West Hartford website at www.westhartford.org and click on “Jobs” in the left hand Quick Links. Only electronic applications will be accepted. Additional information about the West Hartford Public Library and the community can be found on the Town’s website. Applications will be accepted through December 15, 2014 or until the positon is filled. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their application and background information early in the recruitment process.