Position Summary:
The Library Director is responsible for the overall administration, management, and strategic direction of the City Library. This position ensures that library services effectively meet the informational, educational, and cultural needs of the community. The Library Director provides professional leadership, develops and implements library policies, oversees staff and operations, manages the budget, and directs the continued growth of library services and facilities.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Plans, organizes, and directs all library operations, including circulation, reference, technical services, programming, and outreach.
- Develops and implements short-and long-range goals, objectives, policies, and procedures consistent with City priorities and community needs.
- Prepares and administers the annual library budget; monitors expenditures and identifies opportunities for grants, partnerships, and alternative funding.
- Selects, trains, supervises, and evaluates library staff and volunteers, promoting professional development and teamwork.
- Oversees collection development, including acquisition, cataloging, and weeding, ensuring a balanced and relevant collection.
- Develops, coordinates, and promotes library programs and events for all age groups.
- Maintains a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment for library patrons and staff.
- Build and maintain positive relationships with schools, civic groups, and community organizations to enhance library visibility and partnerships.
- Provides reports, recommendations, and professional guidance to the City Manager and City Council on library operations, needs, and performance
- Ensures compliance with state library standards, laws, and regulations.
- Oversee the maintenance and improvement of library facilities, equipment, and technology infrastructure.
- Represents the library at community events, meetings, and professional associations.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)
- Extensive knowledge of library principles, practices, and emerging technologies.
- Strong leadership and management skills with the ability to plan, direct, and evaluate staff and services.
- Excellent communication, public relations, and interpersonal skills.
- Knowledge of budgeting, personnel administration, and strategic planning in a public setting.
- Ability to develop and maintain cooperative working relationships with City officials, employees, and the public.
- Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in public service
- Proficiency with integrated library systems, digital resources, and office software.
Minimum Qualifications
- Education: Master’s degree in library and information science (MLIS) from the American Library Association (ALA)-accredited institution or willingness to complete the TN State Library’s Public Library Management Institute (PLMI) certification program.
- Experience: Three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in library administration or management, including supervisory experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Must be able to pass a drug screen and background check.
Preferred Qualifications (Optional)
- Public or municipal library experience preferred.
Work Environment and Physical Demands
- The Library Director works under general administrative direction with considerable independence in decision making. The position involves frequent contact with the public, City officials, community partners, and vendors.
- Work is typically performed in an office and public library setting
- Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally and stand or sit for extended periods.
- May require occasional evening and weekend work.
Employment Disclaimer
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The employee may perform other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the City of Kingston. The City of Kingston is an Equal Opportunity Employer