Library Director, Plaistow Public Library (Plaistow, NH)

Posted October 27, 2025

Job Description
The Board of Trustees of the Plaistow Public Library invites applications for the position of Library Director. Our beautiful and well-supported library on Main St. serves a population of just under 8,000 residents. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced, innovative, and community-oriented leader. The Director will direct all phases of library operations, ensuring it continues to thrive as the cultural and informational hub of Plaistow. The Library works closely with local officials but functions with a high degree of independence from the Town, managing internally most of its financial, HR, technological, and building needs. The ideal candidate must be a collaborative leader with proven leadership and communication skills, experience in supervision and delegation, and an understanding of the operations and functions of public libraries. The successful applicant will be a creative, energetic individual with a growth mindset and a clear vision of the current and future place of the public library in our community. Our 25-year-old library is a community treasure: beautiful, well-loved, and ready for renewal. With significant trust funds dedicated to its future, we invite leaders experienced in capital project planning to help shape our future.

A full job description and profile of the library and community are available at: https://www.plaistowlibrary.com/work-us.

Requirements & Qualifications
1. Education & Experience
* Master of Library Science (MLS/MLIS) from an ALA-accredited institution (strongly preferred).
* Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in public library management, including staff supervision, budgeting, and policy development.
* An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

2. Required Knowledge & Skills
* Strong knowledge of library services, practices, and policies.
* Proven leadership and organizational skills with the ability to manage people, budgets, and policies effectively.
* Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
* Ability to build positive working relationships with the public, staff, Trustees, and town officials.
* Proficiency with current technologies, including integrated library systems, internet resources, and productivity software (Microsoft Word, Excel, Google Workspace, etc.)
* Familiarity with HR practices, payroll, and relevant state and federal labor laws.
* Capacity to work on multiple priorities in a fast-paced, service-oriented environment.

Status (full-time, part-time, temporary)
Full-time, 40 hrs/ week on-site

Compensation & Benefits
Salary: $80,000 – $90,000, based on experience and qualifications
Insurance: Health & dental, life, short-term and long-term disability
Pension: NH Retirement System
Other: Paid time off. Professional development support

How to Apply

Please submit the following materials to [email protected] by November 30, 2025:
* Cover letter – please share your vision for the future of public libraries and how you would realize that vision
* Resume/CV
* Contact information for three professional references (will be contacted only with prior notice)