Job Description
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.
Benefits & Additional Compensation Info
A generous benefits package includes medical, prescription, vision, and dental insurance, paid time off, and a 6% retirement contribution.
Additional Info & Requirements
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.The main library’s modern 52,000 sq. foot building is home to a rich collection, accessible in comfortable spaces that invite patrons to meet, discuss, and debate. The recently renovated children’s services section, well-equipped maker’s space, and a new podcasting studio are among its highlights. The Barney Library, a 9,000 sq. foot historic building located in the heart of Farmington Village, houses special collections and art, and hosts innovative programming. The Barney's recent $3 million renovation restored many of its original, early 1900's design features.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.
The Community
THE TOWN OF FARMINGTON
Farmington is a vibrant New England town with stunning colonial architecture, an active historical district, bustling riverfront eateries, and inviting town gardens. The extensive rails-to-trails greenway, the Farmington River’s world-class trout fishing, and numerous hiking, kayaking, and biking spots combine to make the area a four-season outdoor paradise. Farmington’s schools have been awarded Blue Ribbon status by the US Department of Education, and Newsweek named Farmington High School one of the top high schools in the country. The town is also home to the University of Connecticut Health Center and the research facilities of Jackson Laboratories.
West Hartford, Hartford, and New Haven’s museums, theaters, award-winning eateries, and event venues are within a short drive. Connecticut’s beautiful shoreline beaches and quaint towns are easily accessible. New York City and Boston are within two hours, and Bradley Airport is within a half hour’s drive. Choose Farmington
HR Info
The full job announcement, including required experience, skills, and qualifications, along with application instructions, can be found here:
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.
The Farmington Libraries/FVGLA is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to hiring and maintaining a diverse workforce of highly qualified staff to ensure broad perspectives, promote equity and inclusion, and connect to our wider community. Applicants with racially, ethnically, or culturally diverse identities or backgrounds are encouraged to apply.