The Mystic & Noank Library is seeking an accomplished and engaging leader to serve as its next Executive Director. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the Executive Director will lead one of Southeastern Connecticut’s most respected independent libraries while advancing its mission to aspire to support the intellectual, creative and cultural interests of our library community and our visitors. Working in close partnership with the Board of Trustees and the Assistant Director, the Executive Director will provide strategic leadership to ensure the Library continues to thrive as a welcoming and responsive resource for residents and visitors alike.
This is an exciting opportunity to steward a historic community institution with more than 133 years of service. Located in the heart of downtown Mystic, the Library welcomes nearly 100,000 visitors annually and serves as a vibrant center for education, culture, and community engagement. As an independent 501(c)(3) association library, Mystic & Noank Library is supported through municipal appropriations, private philanthropy, endowment income, and community support. The Library benefits from a dedicated professional staff, an engaged Board of Trustees, active Friends of the Library, committed volunteers, and strong partnerships throughout the region.
The Executive Director will provide both strategic and operational leadership across all aspects of the organization. Working collaboratively with the Board of Trustees and Assistant Director, the Executive Director will lead implementation of the Library’s strategic priorities, oversee financial planning and stewardship, direct community engagement and government relations, and ensure that the Library continues to meet the changing needs of the communities it serves. The Executive Director will serve as the Library’s chief ambassador, cultivating relationships with municipal leaders, donors, community organizations, and other partners while promoting the Library’s mission and expanding its visibility throughout the region.
The Executive Director will also provide leadership for
organizational culture and workforce development by supporting and
mentoring staff, fostering a collaborative and inclusive workplace, and
ensuring that personnel policies and practices are administered
fairly and in compliance with applicable laws. In partnership with
the Board and Assistant Director, the Executive Director will oversee
development of the annual operating budget, monitor the Library’s
financial position and endowment funds, coordinate
audits and financial reporting, recommend capital improvements, and
ensure responsible stewardship of the Library’s historic facilities and
grounds.
A key responsibility of the position is advancing the Library’s long-term financial sustainability. The Executive Director will advocate for municipal funding, represent the Library before local government officials, participate in fundraising and development activities, and work closely with donors, volunteers, and community stakeholders to strengthen philanthropic support and expand partnerships that advance the Library’s mission.
The ideal candidate will be a collaborative, strategic, and visible leader with demonstrated success in organizational management, financial oversight, community engagement, and personnel leadership. The successful candidate will possess exceptional communication and relationship-building skills, sound administrative judgment, and a deep commitment to public service and lifelong learning.
Minimum qualifications include:
- A Master’s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or Master of Library Science (MLS) from an ALA-accredited institution.
- A minimum of five years of progressively responsible management experience with demonstrated success in administration, budgeting, planning, personnel supervision, fundraising, and community engagement.
- Experience working with governing boards, financial management, budgeting, and organizational leadership.
- Knowledge of finance and accounting sufficient to prepare and
manage budgets and work effectively with auditors and finance
committees.
Preferred qualifications include:
- Professional leadership experience in a library.
- Experience representing an organization before municipal funding bodies and community organizations.
- Knowledge of emerging technologies and their application to library services.
- Ability to think strategically while responding effectively to changing community needs.
Compensation: The salary range for this position is $77,000 - $87,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience. Benefits include paid time off, health insurance and a 401K plan.
Applications: Applicants should submit a cover letter, résumé, and the names of three references, including at least two professional references to director@mysticnoanklibrary.org by 8/21/2026. Full job description available.
The Mystic & Noank Library is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace that welcomes and supports individuals of all backgrounds.
