Executive Director, Metropolitan Library System, Oklahoma City OK
Posted June 13, 2014
“Awesome as Ever!”
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR – METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM – OKLAHOMA CITY, OK
Is the Metropolitan Library System…your inviting, innovative link to the world as its new Executive Director? The Metropolitan Library System (http://www.mls.lib.ok.us/) Commission seeks a talented, thoughtful, and pioneering leader to chart the exciting future for 14 large, full-service libraries and five smaller extension libraries located throughout the communities of Oklahoma County. Funded by a 5.2 mill property tax ($33 million annual budget) and governed by a 27-member appointed Library Commission, this large, diverse system of urban, suburban and rural libraries serves 750,000 Oklahoma County residents living within 708 square miles. In 2013, 500 dedicated staff welcomed 2.9 million visitors circulating 6.6 million items. With its vast array of programs, services and events, the Library promotes flexibility and change as it reaches out to the many communities throughout the County. The Friends of the Library raise funds, volunteer, and advocate for the Library and the Library Endowment Trust provides an excellent opportunity for contributions to be invested on a permanent basis.
The deep-rooted charm and energetic atmosphere of Oklahoma City (https://www.okc.gov/) and central Oklahoma invite people to call it home. The City is part of a spirited urban renaissance which includes the Bricktown Entertainment District, Film Row, the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, and the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum. Dubbed the “Loud City,” sports fans have the opportunity to cheer on the NBA basketball team, the Oklahoma City Thunder, and the Oklahoma City Red Hawks (Houston Astros Triple A baseball team). Families enjoy a wide range of events throughout the year-Olympic and Paralympic Rowing in the Boathouse District on the Oklahoma River, The Red Earth Festival, deadCENTER Film Festival, Festival of the Arts, Downtown in December and the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon. The area is also rich in history and tradition. In addition to forging new entrepreneurial frontiers and a dynamic creative economy, the area is also part of the Great American Frontier. Supported by a renowned accelerator infrastructure, the city attracts entrepreneurs from both coasts. Oklahoma City’s solid and successful economy is fueled by 5 key business ecosystems: Energy, Information & Financial Services, Transportation & Distribution, Aviation & Defense, and Agriculture & Biosciences. These ecosystems are supported by an engaged academic community with five major universities in the region including the renowned University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Too, since 1997, i2E has fueled Oklahoma small business development. The Metropolitan Library System is a key partner shaping the future in economic and cultural/arts development with the County and the City. For additional information, visit Metro Links, http://www.gossagesager.com/MLSlinks.htm.
Responsibilities. The Executive Director plans, coordinates, and directs the Library system’s staff, services, and programs administratively, under the direction of the Library Commission. The Executive Director serves as the Secretary and non-voting ex-officio member of the Library Commission. The Executive Director is responsible for working with the Library Commission and staff to develop long-term plans and directions for the Library; planning and directing the overall operations and management of MLS; providing effective leadership to the staff; working collaboratively with civic organizations and community agencies; and working effectively with state and local elected officials. The Executive Director also functions with a maximum degree of latitude for independent action within the scope of the organizational policy set by the Library Commission.
Qualifications. Minimum qualifications include a Master’s degree in Library Science/Information Studies from an ALA-accredited institution and a minimum eight years of progressively responsible administrative supervisory experience, preferably in a major urban public library/library system. Additional qualifications are a demonstrated proven ability to formulate and implement policies and procedures, strategic planning, and management and development of staff, services, finances, collection, and facilities. The successful candidate will also have experience working in a multi-branch system, success working with talented and self-directed staff, success in developing internal and external relationships, and proven ability to provide vision and direction for future public library services and expertise in working with political structures, multiple governmental agencies and an administrative board. Advanced degrees such as an MPA or MBA are highly desirable.
Compensation. The starting salary range is $135,000-$165,000 with a competitive benefits package.
For further information, contact Bradbury Associates/Gossage Sager Associates (www.gossagesager.com) via email or phone. To start the application process, send a meaningful cover letter and your résumé as Word or pdf attachments to Dan Bradbury, [email protected], or Jobeth Bradbury, [email protected], on or before the closing date of August 17, 2014.
The Metropolitan Library System provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants for employment and does not discriminate on the basis of any attribute outlawed by applicable federal, state or local laws.