Executive Director, Mystic & Noank Library (Mystic, CT)
Posted August 5, 2026
Description:
The Mystic & Noank Library is seeking an accomplished and engaging leader to serve as its next Executive Director. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the Executive Director will lead one of Southeastern Connecticut’s most respected independent
libraries while advancing its mission to aspire to support the intellectual, creative and cultural interests of our library community and our visitors. Working in close partnership with the Board of Trustees and the Assistant Director, the Executive Director will provide strategic leadership to ensure the Library continues to thrive as a welcoming and responsive resource for residents and visitors alike.
This is an exciting opportunity to steward a historic community institution with more than 133 years of service. Located in the heart of downtown Mystic, the Library welcomes nearly 100,000 visitors annually and serves as a vibrant center for education, culture, and community engagement. As an independent 501(c)(3) association library, Mystic & Noank Library is supported through municipal appropriations, private philanthropy, endowment income, and community support. The Library benefits from a dedicated professional staff, an engaged Board of Trustees, active Friends of the Library, committed volunteers, and strong partnerships throughout the region.
Essential Functions:
The Executive Director will provide both strategic and operational leadership across all aspects of the organization. Working collaboratively with the Board of Trustees and Assistant Director, the Executive Director will lead implementation of the Library’s
strategic priorities, oversee financial planning and stewardship, direct community engagement and government relations, and ensure that the Library continues to meet the changing needs of the communities it serves. The Executive Director will serve as
the Library’s chief ambassador, cultivating relationships with municipal leaders, donors, community organizations, and other partners while promoting the Library’s mission and expanding its visibility throughout the region.
The Executive Director will also provide leadership for organizational culture and workforce development by supporting and mentoring staff, fostering a collaborative and inclusive workplace, and ensuring that personnel policies and practices are
administered fairly and in compliance with applicable laws. In partnership with the Board and Assistant Director, the Executive Director will oversee development of the annual operating budget, monitor the Library’s financial position and endowment funds, coordinate audits and financial reporting, recommend capital improvements, and ensure responsible stewardship of the Library’s historic facilities and grounds.
A key responsibility of the position is advancing the Library’s long-term financial sustainability. The Executive Director will advocate for municipal funding, represent the Library before local government officials, participate in fundraising and development activities, and work closely with donors, volunteers, and community stakeholders to strengthen philanthropic support and expand partnerships that advance the Library’s mission.
The ideal candidate will be a collaborative, strategic, and visible leader with demonstrated success in organizational management, financial oversight, community engagement, and personnel leadership. The successful candidate will possess exceptional communication and relationship-building skills, sound administrative judgment, and a deep commitment to public service and lifelong learning.
MINIMUM Qualifications:
- Master’s Degree in Library Science (MLS)
- Progressively responsible experience in leadership with proven ability in Board management and organizational governance, administration, budgeting and fiscal management, planning, human resource management, fundraising and community engagement.
PREFERRED Qualifications:
- Leadership expertise within a Library environment.
- Experience as a community leader and as a representative to municipal funding bodies.
- Ability to provide own transportation as needed for job and travel requirements.
Compensation
The salary range for this position is $77,000 – $87,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience. Benefits include paid time off, health insurance and a 401K plan.
How to Apply
Applicants should submit a cover letter, résumé, and the names of three references, including at least two professional references to [email protected] by 8/21/2026. Full job description available here: https://mysticnoanklibrary.org/jobs.