Tuesday, September 01, 2015

Library Director

Russell Library, Middletown, CT.  The Board of Trustees of the award-winning Russell Library seeks a visionary, energetic, innovative individual with a demonstrated track record of effective collaboration, action, and execution for the position of Library Director with an anticipated start date of March 1, 2016. Reporting to the Russell Library Company Board of Trustees, the Library Director administers a budget of $3 million, heads an 85-person staff of service-minded and resourceful individuals, and leads a public library committed to growing its mission of public service and to linking to the community’s numerous educational, cultural, and social assets. The Library Director will lead the planning and ultimate execution of the Russell Library’s strategic plan for the future of the library in terms of public service, daily functionality, and physical space. Russell Library, recognized by the Connecticut Library Association with the Excellence in Public Library Services Award, is dedicated to serving the diverse community that is Middletown, Connecticut by offering services and programs suited to all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.  Duties of the Library Director include, but are not limited to: Leads the Library through Department Heads and oversees services, collection development and maintenance, educational and cultural programs, building renovations, and the evolution of a robust, responsive technology. Acts as principal public spokesperson for the Library in daily public activities, and maintains effective working relationships with City officials, departmental personnel, union representatives, community organizations, school groups and the general public.  Leads near term and long range planning in the development and expansion of services, programs, and library space. Oversees the business operations of the Library, developing annual budget recommendations and administering the approved budget. Directs the employment process, arranges training, and supports professional development. Prepares Board meeting agenda and submits policy, program, and procedural recommendations to the Board. Participates in regional, state, and national professional library and public administration organizations. Responds to building emergencies or community needs during non-scheduled hours.  For complete job description see http://russelllibrary.org/about_us/pdfs/Director_2015.pdf Qualifications: The required skills and knowledge would be acquired with a Master’s Degree in Library Science and at least seven years of progressively responsible experience in library work, including five years in the supervision of a major library department, or equivalent combination of training and experience. Further training such as a second master’s degree or completion of CPLA (Certified Public Library Administrator Program) or NELLS (New England Library Leadership Symposium) is desired. Alternate and appropriate combinations of education and professional experiences may be considered. Compensation: This position offers a salary commensurate with experience and education, and an accompanying health & retirement package.  Applicants should submit a letter of interest and resume with application. Applications are available online at the Russell Library website: http://russelllibrary.org/about_us/employment.html  Applications must be submitted by 4:00 pm, September 28, 2015 to: dirsearch@russell.lioninc.org For further information, contact dirsearch@russell.lioninc.org