Library Director, Central Falls Public Library, Central Falls, RI
Posted May 15, 2015
The Central Falls Public Library is located in Central Falls, Rhode Island, a city that is currently undergoing significant, exciting structural changes to meet the needs and aspirations of over 19,000 residents. Since 1910, the Library has been an active, vibrant community institution committed to the education and cultural enrichment of its users. (Recently, a devoted set of volunteers was recognized by the local and national press for its tireless efforts to keep its doors open during the City’s financial distress.) As Central Falls transforms itself into an efficient, productive modern city, the Library will play a key role as a knowledge and activity center for the City’s public and private sectors, and for its diverse community. The Library’s facilities will continue to be supported and maintained by the 101 year old Adams Memorial Trust; its operations will be governed by the new Board of Trustees of the Central Falls Public Library and funded by public and private revenues.
In order to meet the ambitious goals set by the community it serves, the Board of Trustees is seeking an innovative and dynamic Library Director who will be charged with the unique and exciting opportunity to shape the Central Falls Public Library into a “library of the future” and develop new services that are responsive to its users. The Director will be responsible for an initial evaluation of all Library operations and charged with implementing a strategic plan that not only meets community needs, but also incorporates efficient, technology-rich best practices within all significant areas of Library operations. The Director will also be responsible for the hiring and management of all staff, and serve as the Library’s principal promoter, fundraiser, and point-of-contact for all strategic relationships, including those with professional associations, the state’s Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS), and the Ocean State Libraries (OSL) consortium. With significant support from the Board, the Rhode Island and regional library communities, city and state agencies, and the local business community, the Director will have the opportunity to develop and grow a unique institution that the Board expects will serve as a leading model for urban public libraries in New England.
Minimum Qualifications
- Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science from an ALA-accredited program.
- At least 5 years of work experience in a professional setting.
- At least 1 year of supervisory experience in a professional setting.
- Excellent written and oral communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong project management skills.
- Skill in strategic planning, financial management, and grant writing; knowledge of standard office procedures, practices, forms and equipment.
- Excellent time management skills; ability to prioritize multiple tasks and deal effectively with interruptions; ability to identify and analyze complex issues and to develop appropriate recommendations.
- Appreciation of, and superior knowledge of, library-related software, including social media tools.
- Excellent public speaking skills.
- Demonstrable knowledge of the latest consumer technology trends and their increasing impact on library operations.
- A strong, service-oriented attitude focused on designing, implementing, and evaluating new services and improving existing services, as well as the ability to instill and support this attitude among staff.
Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Demonstrated development skills and fundraising experience, either in library or non-library settings.
- Ability to lead change, develop staff competencies, and build high-performance teams.
- Fluency in Spanish.
- Experience with low-income communities and their needs.
- Experience with the feature and workflows of at least one Integrated Library System (ILS.)
- Experience with the interpretation of local and state government regulations.
- Community organizing experience.
- Knowledge of marketing and public relations.
Compensation and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $50,000 – $63,000. The selected candidate will also enjoy benefits competitive with those enjoyed by other Rhode Island public library directors, and have the option of participating in a salary incentive program.
Application Guidelines
The Board of Trustees of the Central Falls Public Library welcomes all applicants who meet the above criteria, including those with significant experience in, or currently employed in, non-library settings. The Board of Trustees of the Central Falls Public Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values diversity. All qualified applicants will receive due consideration by the Board.
To receive first consideration, please submit a cover letter and resume, via email, by June 1, 2015 to the following:
All inquiries regarding this position must be submitted via email. The Board reserves the right to modify the application deadline, and/or to accept applications after the deadline, to best serve the interest of the Library and the community.