Washington County Library System – Director Position Opening
Position Title: Director
Location: Washington County, Mississippi
Organization: Washington County Library System (WCLS)
The Washington County Library System (WCLS) seeks an experienced, visionary, and community-focused Director to lead a dynamic seven-branch public library system serving Washington County, Mississippi.
This position serves as the chief administrative officer of the system, responsible for strategic leadership, operational excellence, financial stewardship, and the continued advancement of library services, facilities, and partnerships throughout the county.
The Director reports directly to the Board of Trustees and provides leadership for all library operations, staff, programs, and long-term planning.
Primary Responsibilities
I. Strategic Leadership & Vision
- Develop and implement long-range strategic plans aligned with community needs and Board priorities
- Lead modernization initiatives in technology, facilities, services, and organizational structure
- Identify emerging trends and integrate innovative library solutions
- Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and service excellence
II. Governance & Board Relations
- Serve as chief advisor to the Board of Trustees
- Prepare materials and reports for all Board meetings
- Lead policy development and ensure compliance with state and federal requirements
- Coordinate trustee training and orientation programs
- Ensure transparent communication and effective governance practices
III. Operations & Administration
- Provide oversight of all library branches, departments, and staff
- Recruit, supervise, evaluate, and develop personnel
- Oversee facilities management, capital projects, and maintenance planning
- Direct system-wide technology strategy and implementation
- Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards
IV. Financial Stewardship
- Prepare and administer the system’s annual operating and capital budgets
- Oversee purchasing, contracts, and financial controls
- Lead grant development, management, and reporting at the local, state, and federal levels
- Coordinate annual audits and financial reporting
- Advise the Board on long-term fiscal planning and sustainability
V. Community Engagement & Advocacy
- Serve as the primary public representative and advocate for WCLS
- Build strong partnerships with schools, governments, nonprofits, businesses, and civic organizations
- Lead public relations, marketing, and community outreach initiatives
- Communicate regularly with local, state, and federal officials regarding library priorities
VI. State & Professional Leadership
- Maintain active collaboration with the Mississippi Library Commission
- Ensure timely submission of all accreditation, grant, audit, and statistical reports
- Participate in professional organizations and continuing education
- Represent WCLS at conferences, workshops, and regional initiatives
Qualifications
- Master’s degree in library & information science (ALA-accredited) required
- Minimum five years of progressively responsible leadership in public library administration or related executive management
- Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, financial management, staff leadership, and community engagement
- Proven record of grant writing, partnership development, and organizational transformation
- Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills
Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $60,000 – $70,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications
Annual performance and budget-based increases if funding allows
Includes full Mississippi state benefits package.
Application Process
Submit:
- Cover letter
- Résumé
- Professional references
Finalists may be asked to provide a public presentation to the Board of Trustees as part of the selection process.
Includes full Mississippi state benefits package and cafeteria plan.
Washington County was formed under the First Mississippi Constitution (1817-1832) on January 29, 1827, largely from the western part of Yazoo County and also from the northern part of Warren County. It was the state's 22nd county to organize. Washington County was named for George Washington (1723-1799) of Virginia, the commanding general of the Continental Army and the first President of the United States (1789-1797). Greenville, the seat of the county government, was named for General Nathaniel Greene of Revolutionary War fame. Washington County is located in the Yazoo-Mississippi Delta soil area in the northwest part of the state, bordering the Mississippi River and state of Arkansas.
Greenville will fire your imagination. From day trips and weekend getaways to leisurely vacations, the colors of Greenville will inspire and rejuvenate you. Not just the ambers and purples of sunset over the Mississippi River, but the lush greens of cypress groves and cane brakes… the subtle hues of historic buildings and churches… the neon of juke joints, and of course, the blues.
Elizabeth Alexander, WCLS Business Manager, [email protected]