Library Director, Pease Public Library, (Plymouth, NH)

Posted February 27, 2023

The Board of Trustees of the Pease Public Library in Plymouth, New Hampshire, is looking for an experienced, enthusiastic Director to work with and lead their top-notch staff. We would like a Director with strong communication skills to promote the Library and help to spur its continuing growth. Pease Public Library plays an important role in a growing community with a current population of approximately 6,680 people. The Library has an operating budget of $524,000. Pease Public Library is in the downtown area of Plymouth, which has a wonderful mix of businesses and entertainment and is home to Plymouth State University. This is a full-time position offering comprehensive medical and dental benefits. The Town of Plymouth participates in the NH Retirement System. Salary range is $62,400-$66,560.

Job Description:
Position Purpose:
Performs supervisory, administrative, and professional work in planning, organizing, managing, and directing all library services and activities, responsible for the daily operations of the library; responsible for the development and administration of financial resources for the development, management, and enhancement of the library; responsible for facility oversight, personnel, programs, and overall library services; and develops and implements policies in conformance with regulations. Performs all other related work as required.

Essential Functions:
(The essential functions, or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.)

Works with the Board of Trustees and library staff to provide efficient and effective library services for the community.
Plans, organizes, manages, and oversees the implementation of library services and operations for the Pease Public Library.
Develops and administers the annual budget; monitors expenditures, including payroll; prepares financial and statistical reports, and provides support information to assist the Board of Trustees in the budgeting process.
Establishes goals and measures accomplishments against recognized standards.
Enforces library rules and safety rules for the protection of patrons, library staff and library property.
Maintains a positive relationship with the library staff in order to foster an effective working environment.
Maintains a collection that satisfies the wants and needs of library patrons; orders new books and media for catalogue; catalogues new arrivals and donations.
Fosters and maintains positive community relations and a positive relationship with the Trustees. Networks with community leaders and nonprofits to encourage library usage.
Assists the Trustees in formulating overall library procedures, policies, budgets, and goals, and maintaining appropriate and timely policies.
Prepares reports and documents as required by state, town and Board of Trustees.
Administers all aspects of library operation including personnel selection and supervision; budgeting and expenditure; book and materials selection; collection development and maintenance; building and grounds maintenance; programming and community relations.
Investigates and recommends upgrades to library automation and appropriate library technologies.
Responsible for the personnel management of the Library. Recruits, selects, and trains new personnel. Evaluates the performance of employees.
Maintains involvement in professional organizations and attends professional meetings and seminars to stay abreast of current trends in library services.
Promotes the ongoing professional development of all members of the staff.
Maintains current knowledge of New Hampshire laws and regulations governing or impacting the activities of libraries.
Performs similar or related work as required, directed or as situation dictates.

Recommended Minimum Qualifications:
Education, Training and Experience:
Master’s Degree in Library Science (M.L.S) or equivalent graduate degree from an institution accredited by the American Library Association; seven years progressively responsible experience in public library management including personnel supervision, budget management and policy development; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Knowledge, Ability and Skill:
Knowledge: Thorough knowledge of the principles, practices and ethics of professional library work; knowledge of facilities management and operations including administration, finance and personnel. Working knowledge of computerization and appropriate library applications and technology.

Ability: Ability to supervise staff and volunteers in an effective and supportive manner. Ability to establish and maintain working relationships with organizations, departments and officials. Ability of leadership, independent judgment, initiative and decision-making. Ability to work under pressure. Ability to plan, implement, and evaluate effective library services, strategies, facilities and staff. Ability to communicate effectively. Ability to keep current with the pace of technology and available resources that may be offered to the public.

Skill: Excellent planning and organizational skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Proficient computer skills and budgetary skills. Excellent interpersonal and problem- solving skills. Skilled in utilizing library networks and state resources.

Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Regularly required to walk, climb on ladders and stools, stand, sit, talk, and hear; operate objects, tools, or controls; pick up paper, files, books and other common library and office objects. Ability to view computer screens and work with details for extended periods of time.

Ability to reach and bend, to stoop, kneel crouch, or crawl and push/pull or lift objects up to 60 pounds. Must be able to communicate.

Supervision:
Supervision Scope: Performs highly responsible work of a complex nature which involves the exercise of independent judgment and initiative in planning and overseeing the administration of the municipal library and in the development and delivery of library services to meet individual and community needs.

Supervision Received: Work is performed under the direction of the Library Board of Trustees.
Supervision Given: Provides supervision of all full and part-time library staff, developing job direction, assigning tasks, instructions and monitoring performance.

Job Environment:

Work is performed under typical office and library conditions; the noise level is moderate.

Operates computers and peripherals, barcode reader, dollies/hand trucks, electronic smart devices, tablets and readers, telephone, facsimile machine, copier, calculator, and other standard office equipment.

Employee has frequent contact with the public, other library agencies, Board of Trustees, town officials and employees, vendors, Friends Association, local business owners and varied organizations. Contacts are in person, by telephone, and by email and involve an information exchange dialogue.

Has access to all department-related confidential information, including personnel files and patron records.

Errors could result in adverse public relations, reduction in the level of library service and have financial repercussions for the town.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

How to Apply

Applications should be sent to The Pease Public Library Board of Trustees at [email protected].

Deadline: Position is open until filled