THE SEARCH
The
Farmington Libraries, serving the greater Farmington, Connecticut area,
exist to fulfill our Mission and Vision. Our mission is to partner with
the community to provide free access to services, experiences, and
resources that offer opportunities to explore, create, and share ideas.
Our vision is to build on our proud reputation as a vibrant, energetic
and stimulating center of intellectual and social activity. Farmington Libraries Mission & Vision
We seek as our next Executive Director a collaborative, strategic, and innovative public library services expert and leader with a passion for developing and mentoring staff. The Libraries’ dedicated staff, outstanding facilities, solid financial footing, and engaged patrons make this a unique and exciting opportunity.
OPPORTUNITIES OF THE ROLE
The
new Executive Director joins a highly respected organization that is an
integral part of the Town of Farmington and surrounding communities.
Opportunities include: Lead, develop, and mentor a dedicated,
highly-skilled, and engaged staff. Focus on enhancing library services
and engaging with our diverse patrons, the community, and an active
board, thanks to the organization’s strong financial footing. Create a
robust strategic plan that will shape The Libraries’ future, with clear,
interim priorities providing a running start. Collaborate with a
generous and devoted Friends of the Library organization which provides
funding for important projects and purchases. Further The Libraries’
mission by applying creativity and leveraging our impressive facilities,
collections, and technology resources.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR EXPECTATIONS
The
new Executive Director will be expected to: Bring the Libraries’
mission to life. Apply their public library services expertise to
sustain the integral role The Libraries play in the community. Provide
exceptional leadership through supportive, collaborative, and decisive
management, including developing and mentoring staff. Communicate,
collaborate, and liaise with staff, board, patrons, and the larger
community in a direct and solution-focused manner. Demonstrate financial
acumen and savvy, maximizing and creatively using resources. Develop
and manage a sound budget. Embrace diversity through staffing,
programming, and community outreach. Provide steady operational
leadership punctuated with vision and innovation. Plan and implement
capital improvements and on-going facilities maintenance.
EXPERIENCE, SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS
The
ideal candidate will possess the following: A Master’s of Library
Science (MLS/MLIS) degree from an ALA-accredited school. 5+ years of
progressive responsibility leading a public library (or library
department) of similar size and scope. A supportive leadership style
that prioritizes mentoring, advocacy, and providing developmental
opportunities to individuals and teams. An established record of
fostering patron, board, and community engagement. A commitment to
creating unique and memorable patron experiences and offering
outstanding service to patrons and colleagues. Proven ability to manage
challenging issues and situations. Demonstrated budget, funding, and
financial experience in the public library sphere. Strategic planning
and implementation skills that have delivered measurable results. A
demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, access, and inclusion
through staffing, programming, and community outreach. Success
leveraging technology and media in service of patrons and the community.
Communication skills that help build and foster relationships. Evidence
of collaboration across a diverse array of groups and organizations,
including patrons, boards, municipalities, and donor organizations.
THE LIBRARIES & THE ORGANIZATION
Serving
the community for over 100 years, The Farmington Libraries enjoy a
reputation as a vibrant center of social interaction and intellectual
growth. Its creative and engaged staff of 40+ (currently 15 full-time,
26 part-time) shape a mission-driven program designed to serve an
increasingly diverse population.
We are an Association Library owned, governed and supported by the Farmington Village Green & Library Association (FVGLA). The members of the Library Board are all Trustees of the parent organization. Approximately 95% of The Libraries’ $3 million operating budget comes from the Town of Farmington. The Libraries also benefit from FVGLA’s $6.5 million endowment, which annually provides a percentage of endowment income towards expenses. The Libraries also draw on restricted donations from generous patrons and friends passionate about preserving and forwarding its vision and mission. These elements combine to provide a strong, enduring organizational and financial foundation for The Libraries. Farmington Libraries
SALARY & BENEFITS
The
Farmington Libraries has budgeted $110,000.00 as a starting annual
salary for this position. A generous benefits package includes medical,
prescription, vision, and dental insurance, paid time off, and a 6%
retirement contribution.
TO APPLY
To view the full job posting and to apply, visit THIS LINK.
CLOSING DATE: This position is open until filled, with preference given to application materials received by March 14, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. EST.
All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual’s race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws.
