About Otis Library:
Otis Library, functioning as the public library of Norwich and its environs, provides free and open access to information, ideas, and services that assist residents of the greater Norwich area to meet their educational, professional, and information needs. The library enriches our region by maintaining a safe and welcoming environment and by offering resources that promote lifelong learning.
The award-winning Otis Library in Norwich CT seeks an innovative, collaborative full-time Executive Director. Otis Library is an association 501(c)(3) library with a governing board. Otis Library is situated in downtown Norwich and is an integral and active part of a vibrant, rural, community of approximately 40,000. Otis Library offers the successful candidate an opportunity to work with a collegial and highly capable service-oriented staff and a committed and enthusiastic Board of Directors.
As part of its commitment to its diverse community, Otis Library has a Multicultural Services Coordinator. The Library is a hub for the Connecticut State Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, which provides materials in braille and audio as well as audio equipment. The Library is also a Passport Application Center that accepts applications on behalf of the U.S. Department of State.
Description of Duties: The Executive Director works under the direction of the governing Board of Directors of Otis Library and is responsible for all aspects of library operations and functions. The Executive Director advocates for the library at the local level, meets the requirements of the Board, complies with all applicable laws and regulations, and meets the needs of the community and staff. The candidate should have in-depth knowledge of current issues impacting library services, a strong vision to guide the staff and Board members, and communication skills to tell the Library’s story to the community and stakeholders.
About the Position:
Board Relations: The Executive Director shall administer and execute policies adopted by the board; prepare regular monthly reports and apprise the board of significant activities, events, problems, and concerns of the library; evaluate the effectiveness of library services necessary to meet the changing needs of the Norwich community and develop plans to meet those needs; formulate and recommend policies for board approval and inform the board of library initiatives; maintain statistical records on library activities; submit monthly and annual reports to the board; serve as technical adviser to the board; attend board meetings; and participate in all fund- raising activities.
Planning: The Executive Director shall supervise the planning and implementation of operations, programs, and activities under the general direction of the board; evaluate future needs of library services and the resources to meet those needs; and prepare long-range plans for the library.
Finance: The Executive Director shall develop the annual budget in cooperation with the board Treasurer and committee. To ensure adequate funding from the City of Norwich, the Executive Director should periodically meet with the City Manager and Finance Director of the City of Norwich to articulate the financial needs of the library and its importance to the quality of life for Norwich citizens and the general region. At least annually, the Executive Director should meet with the Norwich City Council to ensure that the city budget allocates adequate financial resources for the library.
Staffing: The Executive Director shall employ, direct, supervise, and evaluate all library staff, including volunteers, in the performance of their duties; advise the board of any staff disciplinary issues; develop personnel policies and procedures; provide recurring training and development opportunities for all staff; and maintain a positive working environment in behalf of staff morale.
Public and Patron Relations: The Executive Director shall advocate for and promote the library in the Norwich community in tandem with staff, the board, volunteers, patrons, and educational and literacy organizations; work to establish effective communications through news releases, e-mail or print newsletters, blogs, websites, etc.; establish and maintain effective working relationships with schools, agencies, civic and community groups, the general public, and the media; represent the library before community, civic, public library, and other groups by effectively communicating the objectives and activities of Otis Library; effectively address patron and public complaints and advise the board of such interactions; and respond to the needs of the community as its demography and diversity may encourage.
Collections: The Executive Director shall supervise the selection, acquisition, and processing of all library materials to meet public needs within the protocols of library selection policies and the library budget.
Property and Grounds: The Executive Director shall supervise the maintenance and appearance of building interiors, exteriors, and grounds.
Professional Development: The Executive Director shall keep current in library trends by participating in professional and other meetings as appropriate, by membership in state and national library associations, and by networking with regional libraries. Otis Library strongly encourages its professional staff in their pursuit of professional growth and renewal.
Education and Experience: Master's degree from a school of library or information science program accredited by the American Library Association in library science, and a minimum of five (5) years of public library supervisory experience in the administration and management of public library operations, personnel, and programs. Strong technology background and excellent customer service skills are required.
Required Skills:
Master’s degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited program. At
least 5 years of recent public library experience. At least 5 years of
supervisory experience at an administrator, department head, or
supervisory level. Highly developed interpersonal skills. Experience
engaging and promoting services to stakeholders. Experience with
budgeting and fiscal matters. Experience developing and implementing
fundraising campaigns. Experience in community engagement and outreach
to diverse communities. Demonstrated grant writing experience.
Preferred Qualifications: Bilingual
Salary Range: $85,000 - $95,000. Within the salary range, the successful candidate will be paid commensurate with experience.
Benefits: This is a full-time position with a benefits package that includes health and life insurance, 401k retirement plan, vacation, personal, and sick leave, and paid holidays.
Apply: Please send a letter of application, references, and resume to the Executive Director Search Committee at search@otislibrarynorwich.org. Priority will be given to applicants to respond by May 12, 2023.
