Assistant Director of Public Library

The Town of Needham is seeking a passionate, dedicated individual to fill the full-time position of Assistant Director of Public Library at the Needham Free Public Library. Under the direction of the Director of Public Library, the Assistant Director will provide support in the overall management of the library in administrative, professional, and supervisory duties, including matters of policy, personnel, and established strategic plan. This position supervises, directly and indirectly, an average of 14 full-time and 33 part-time employees.

The ideal candidate for this role has strong leadership experience, wishes to utilize their creativity to partner with the Library team on cutting-edge and innovative ideas, and is independently-motivated in achieving goals that support the overall strategic vision of the Library. 

We, as a Library team, offer mentorship, learning opportunities, and the ability for you to be a leader in action. We have a culture of “yes” and trying out new ideas with a focus on interfacing with colleagues and patrons in all areas of the Library’s services. It is an exciting time to join the Needham Free Public Library team! Our new Strategic Plan for FY2023-2027 positions the library to continue to meet the community’s needs for years to come. In addition, our recent Library Space Utilization Study reimagines the library’s interior space in four phases to enhance the work we do for our patrons and the community. Along with diverse collections, plentiful programming, and great services, the Needham Free Public Library is on track to be the go-to place for new and current library workers.

CON #25001

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assists the Director in the management, evaluation, assessment, and operations of overall library functions and in the implementation of new service objectives and programs; participate in planning, both short-term and long-range.
• Completes annual report (ARIS) and financial report forms for Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.
• Gathers data and prepare reports quantifying various operations of the library; evaluate current and proposed procedures; assist in creating or revising as well as implementing policies and procedures approved by the Board of Trustees.
• Assists with preparation of the annual budget and tracking budgeted expenses; prepare monthly statistical reports reflecting budget appropriations.
• Leads effort in enhancing Library’s volunteer and community outreach efforts with internal and external stakeholders.
• Leads the effort in researching, promoting, and facilitating professional development opportunities for staff across all departments.
• Proactively supports supervisors in resolving personnel matters, keeping the Director informed.
• Effectively communicates and collaborates with other Town departments, fostering and building connections to best serve the Town.
• Manages the hiring process for the library's part-time staff and participate in the hiring process for the library's full-time staff in collaboration with the Library Director.
• Provides additional support on nights and weekends, when necessary, to support Library operations and programming.

Qualifications

• Master’s Degree or higher in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or a related field.
• Four to six years of experience relevant to the position.
• Demonstrated knowledge of library services, policies, procedures, systems, and programming.
• Knowledge of current trends in library and information science field.
• Demonstrated ability to motive and lead others, maintaining confidentiality, and working collaboratively and independently.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders including patrons of all ages, Library staff, other Town employees, and media.

Full/Part Time

Full Time

Education

MLS/Masters

Salary Range$92,235.00 - $103,744.00  / year

Closing Date

11:59 p.m. on October 21, 2024

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter, and application via our applicant portal.

Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on October 21, 2024.

The Town of Needham is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive and encouraging workplace. There shall be no discrimination on the basis of race, age, gender, national origin, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, veteran status, or any other protected class. We are an inclusive organization and actively promote equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills, and potential. We welcome all applications from a wide range of candidates. Selection for roles will be based on individual merit alone.

The Town of Needham will endeavor to provide reasonable accommodation to a qualified applicant with a disability unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of our business. If you believe you require such assistance to complete this form or to participate in an interview, please contact us at [email protected].