Job Description
Island Free Library
Library Director
The Island Free Library, beloved for its role of literacy and enrichment at the center of island life, is seeking a collaborative full-time Library Director to lead our vibrant team in serving the Block Island community. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, the Director will advance our mission to fulfill our patrons’ informational, cultural, and recreational needs. Our newly renovated building holds our 28,500+ physical collection and is maintained by a staff of 5 full-time and part-time employees. Nationally recognized by Library Journal and the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the Island Free Library proudly serves Block Island’s 1,400 year-round residents, as well as thousands of seasonal visitors each year. Complete Job Description is below and at https://www.newshorehamri.gov/jobs.aspx. Salary commensurate with experience. Generous family benefits. To apply, please send a cover letter, resume and 3 professional references with contact information to the Island Free Board of Trustees at htarbox@newshorehamri.gov. Position open until filled. Applications received by September 15, 2023, will receive first consideration. EEO.
Purpose of Position
Plans, organizes, directs, evaluates, and reviews the Library’s resources, services and programs to respond to the needs of the community. Plans, directs and coordinates library operations in accordance with the policies established by the Library Board of Trustees. Responsible for advising the Library Board on technical matters and library policy.
Education and Experience
· Master’s Degree in Library Science from an American Library Association accredited institution
· Five years of public library experience that includes management responsibilities and staff supervision in a multitasking environment
Background Check
· As part of the hiring procedure demonstration of good character will be determined through a background investigation
Environmental/Working Conditions
· Flexible work hours; possible evening and weekend hours
· Inside work environment
Essential Functions
· Acts as executive and administrative officer to the Library Board. Advises the Board on policy matters
· Implements the policies and goals of the Island Free Library as established by the Library Board
· Prepares, coordinates and submits the annual library budget proposal for review by Board and participates in its presentation to local officials. Responsible for the expenditure of all library funds within established Town budget
· Implements Board-approved capital improvement projects
· Recruits, selects, supervises, evaluates, and terminates library staff. Oversees the staff training program. Recommends improvements in staffing, organization, salaries and benefits to the Board in accord with Town employee contract and Town Council action
· Plans and conducts regular staff meetings
· Maintains a functional understanding of all operations
· Helps prepare Board meeting agendas and necessary reports in cooperation with the Library Board chair
· Directs and supervises the maintenance of the library building and grounds and makes determinations as to necessary repairs
· Informs and advises the Board as to local, regional, state and national developments in the library field and works to maintain communication with other area libraries
· Serves as chief consultant to the Library Board in regard to technical matters and library policies. Conducts ongoing evaluation of existing library programs, services, policies and procedures, and submits recommendations for improvement to the Board
· Acts as spokesperson for the library. Relates library objectives to community needs, and represents the library on community boards and committees
· Oversees the library’s ongoing collection development plan and supervises the selection, purchase and withdrawal of library materials in accordance with that plan
· Develops and administers the library’s overall public relations plan; prepares press releases
· Actively participates in professional library organizations
· Develops short-term, long-term, and technology plans in conjunction with state regulations
· Performs other related work as required by the Board
Knowledge and Abilities
· Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationship with Library Board and staff, volunteer groups, local and state officials, the general public and community groups
· Ability to gain a working understanding of current and developing technologies as they relate to public library operations
· Ability to guide and direct the growth and development of the library
· Ability to train, supervise and recommend discipline for employees, coordinate and delegate workloads and work schedules, evaluate work performance and maintain high standards of library service
· Ability to understand, develop, interpret and enforce library policies, rules and procedures and to make recommendations to the Library Board
· Knowledge and ability to understand and evaluate computer networks, trouble shoot problems as they arise and communicate these problems to technology consultants
· Together with Library Board, Town Manager, Finance Director create and maintain budgets, and pay bills
· Together with Library Board, ability to manage grants
· Ability to interpret statistical data, analyze information, evaluate programs and prepare clear and concise reports and recommendations
· Ability to foster and maintain positive relations for the library within the community
· Have broad understanding of modern library techniques, methods and procedures as they apply to public library administrations
· Willingness to maintain skills in above mentioned areas through active participation in appropriate continuing education activities
· Working knowledge of English grammar and spelling
Additional Requirements
· Ability to apply technical knowledge and keep current with emerging technologies
· Ability to deal with abstract and concrete variables
· Ability to interpret technical regulations and instructions
· Analytical Skills: identify problems and opportunities; review possible alternative courses of action
before selecting one, utilize information resources available when making decisions
· Communication Skills: effectively communicate ideas and information both in written and oral form
· Creative Decision-making Skills: effectively evaluate or make independent decisions based upon experience, knowledge or training, without supervision
· Planning and Organizational Skills: develop long-range plans to solve complex problems or take advantage of opportunities; establish systematic methods of accomplishing goals
· Problem-solving Skills: develop feasible, realistic solutions to problems; recommend actions designed to prevent problems from occurring and refer problems to Library Board when necessary
· Reading Ability: effectively read and understand information contained in memoranda, reports and bulletins, etc.
· Time management: set priorities in order to meet assignment deadlines
Benefits & Additional Compensation Info
Generous Family Benefits Package
Additional Info & Requirements
Town sponsored rental housing not available
The Community
Block Island, Rhode Island is a charming island town 12 miles offshore. A beloved tourist destination rich in maritime history, Block Island is known for its breathtaking scenic viewsheds, pristine trails and beaches, historic lighthouses, Victorian hotels and shops, and activities such as bicycling, hiking, sailing, fishing, surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. Nationally recognized by Library Journal and the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the Island Free Library proudly serves Block Island’s 1,400 year-round residents, as well as thousands of seasonal visitors each year.
Website
https://islandfreelibrary.org/
Human Resources / Job Listings
https://newshorehamri.gov/jobs.aspx