Revised July 2024. The Kent Memorial Library Commission and the Town of Suffield are excited to announce an opportunity for a dynamic and motivated Library Director to join our town Library. Our Library enjoys robust support from the community and boasts a dedicated and professional staff that consistently offers varied programming for patrons. Community engagement is a cornerstone, featuring extensive support for seasonal reading programs, museum passes, special events, and a wide array of community-led initiatives. Employees and volunteers alike are deeply committed to cultivating a strong sense of community among Suffield's residents.
Although we are located midway between the Boston and New York City metropolitan areas, the Town of Suffield remains a quintessential New England town with a longstanding pledge to preserve its historic architecture and agricultural roots. Literally, dozens of working farms spread out over our 42 square miles provide locally produced farm products year-round. Our Town is bordered by the Connecticut River to the east, Massachusetts to the north, and Bradley International Airport to the south, with Interstate access, regional Amtrak, and light rail routes nearby.
General Summary: The Library Director will undertake a range of administrative, supervisory, and professional duties to oversee Kent Memorial Library's employees, resources, budget, and facilities. The role encompasses managing the public library collection and delivering essential services to patrons and community groups. The primary objective will be to foster a positive, customer-centric environment that enhances the Library's and our Town government's welcoming and professional reputation among Suffield residents.
Qualifications: Education & Experience:
1.
A Master's degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited college or
university is welcome but not required. A bachelor's degree in
management or a related field will also be considered.
2. Five (5)
years of experience, preferably in library administration, including a
minimum of three (3) years of supervisory experience.
3. Extensive
experience may be substituted for education attainment if the Library
Commission and First Selectman deem it appropriate.
Knowledge, Skills, and Expectations: Knowledge of principles and practices of public library functions preferred. Knowledge of developments in the field of leadership management, public administration, grants, and foundations. Leadership skills in managing employees, ideally in a union setting, with an understanding of collective bargaining practices. Skill in financial management and administering budgets. Skill in using computers, including Microsoft suites, Library-related software, and technology infrastructure necessary to operate a modern library. Expected to work independently, be flexible, and adapt to a fast-paced work environment. Expected to work cooperatively with patrons of all ages, volunteers, community partners, colleagues, supervisors, and boards. Expected to plan, direct, and evaluate the work of library programs. Expected to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, local government officials, school officials, community and civic groups, corporations, and the public. Expected to compose clear and correct written correspondence and reports; ability to effectively present information verbally and respond to questions from employees, government officials, community and civic groups, patrons, and the general public. Expected to analyze and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, and government regulations.
Hours: This is a full-time forty (40) hours per week position. This position will occasionally require longer hours beyond those scheduled, including monthly evening commission meetings, evening work, and weekend work, as job duties demand.
Compensation and Benefits: $70,000 - $85,000 commensurate with experience, benefits package to include: 13 Paid Holidays per Year • Paid Sick and Vacation Days • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance • Defined Contribution Plan with Town Match • Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability and Life Insurance
PLEASE SEE THE FULL JOB POSTING HERE
How to Apply: Applications can be found on the town website at suffieldct.gov/departments/hr. Please submit an application and resume by email to sfoley@suffieldct.gov or by mail to the Town of Suffield, Human Resources Department, Attention: Shannon Foley, 83 Mountain Rd, Suffield, CT 06078. Open until filled.
The Town of Suffield is an equal opportunity employer m/f/d/v.
