Public Services Director

Description

FVRLibraries is seeking a full-time Public Services Area Director for our Operations Center in Vancouver, WA. The Public Services Area Director  is responsible for overseeing and managing their assigned branch locations across the district, and their branch managers. The position reports to the Deputy Director who ensures alignment of direction and priorities across all branch locations.  While contributing to the strategic and functional direction for district-wide public services, this role is more directly involved in the day-to-day operations of specific branches, ensuring the successful delivery of services, programs, and resources at those locations. The Public Services Director works closely with assigned Branch Managers to develop and implement operational plans that meet community needs and support district goals. In addition, they are responsible for the overall management of Information Services across the district, overseeing district-wide reference programs, services, and staff training to ensure consistency and quality in serving patrons. The role also supports community engagement, fosters cross-departmental collaboration, and contributes to the ongoing improvement of library services.

The essential functions of this position include:

• Provide strategic direction, leadership oversight and direct supervision to assigned Branch Managers, bookmobile service, and Reference Services.
  Review and evaluate employee performance, give coaching and feedback, and make personnel decisions as necessary; participate in interviewing, hiring and training of staff.  
• Lead the development and implementation of district-wide strategies for public services, ensuring they align with community needs and library goals.  
• Manage special projects, new initiatives, and service innovations, ensuring quality and timely execution.
• Collaborate with leadership and other managers to address operational challenges and improve service efficiency.
• Monitor staffing, materials, and operational resources, identifying needs and opportunities for improvement.
• Represent the library district at external events and community meetings; build partnerships with community organizations and stakeholders. Develop outreach strategies to engage diverse communities and ensure library services meet their needs.
• Ensure the delivery of high-quality, equitable, and customer-focused services across all branches. Address patron inquiries, feedback, and complaints, ensuring consistent communication and resolution.
• Builds and maintains strong and collaborative relationships with staff across the district. Serves as a liaison between staff and FVRL administration.
• Foster a culture of teamwork, continuous improvement, and professional development within the public services team.
• Oversee and manage budgets for areas of responsibility, with input and collaboration of division directors, Branch Managers and Information Services. Ensure financial accountability and efficient use of resources.
• Stay informed on industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies to enhance library services.
• Report on service outcomes, project progress, and operational performance to stakeholders.

This position works Monday - Friday, 8am-5pm at the district's Operations Center in Vancouver, WA.  While the role is exempt from overtime, the exact hours may vary based on the demands of the position and business needs. Occasional evening or weekend hours may be required to meet deadlines or support project requirements.

Approximately 10% of the role involves travel to library locations using a work provided vehicle during the standard work schedule.

Requirements

To be considered, applicants must have

• Master’s degree in Library Sciences from an ALA-accredited program  
• Minimum of five years of related work experience required.
• Minimum of three years of supervisory and people or project management experience required, five years of supervisory and people or project management experience preferred.
• Library leadership and management experience required.