Library Director-KENT DISTRICT LIBRARY (MI)

The Kent District Library Board of Trustees seek an experienced and energetic library leader to direct this outstanding Library District. Information. Ideas. Excitement!—are the by-words for this 18-branch system serving the 365,000+ people in suburban/rural Kent County surrounding Grand Rapids. With a dedicated staff (199.8 FTEs), Friends of the Library and Foundation, Kent District Library utilizes its $16 million operating budget to loan approximately 6.3 million items annually and provides an array of programs and services to the community. KDL is an independent taxing entity funded by personal property taxes.

Located in Western Michigan, Kent County is the fourth largest population center in the state and is composed of twenty-one townships, five villages and nine cities. The area combines a cosmopolitan lifestyle with life at the Lake Michigan shore. Residents enjoy an affordable cost of living, strong schools, world renown medical facilities, and many cultural amenities. In addition to local attractions, Kent County is just a few hours from the major metropolitan areas of Chicago and Detroit. Additional information on the Library District, the County and position can be found at KDL Links.

Responsibilities. The Director of the Kent District Library reports to an eight member Board of Trustees and is responsible for planning and directing the overall operations and management of the District; implementing the mission and goals of the Library as set by the Library Board; and functioning with a maximum degree of latitude for independent action within the scope of Library policy as set by the Library Board. Essential duties include: ensuring the level of patron service, public goodwill and patron satisfaction meet the Library’s goals and objectives; establishing priorities, procedures and general practices for the Library; preparing annual budget documentation and justification for approval by the Board; directing the expenditure of Library funds and allocation of resources; Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with other governmental agencies and officials, community leaders and groups, other library leaders and the general public. See the complete job description for additional details.

Minimum Qualifications. Minimum qualifications include a master’s degree in library science from an ALA accredited program, a minimum of eight years of progressively responsible library experience (including a minimum of five years in an administrative capacity) and the ability to qualify for Level 1 certification and compliance with all training and other requirements applicable to the Director of a class 6 library under Michigan State Aid Rules. Essential attributes and skills include: leading a diverse team of highly talented professionals in interpreting the Board policy to achieve high standards; excellent interpersonal skills; experience in providing sound fiscal planning and management; knowledge of millage campaigns; experience working with a large staff; ability to communicate well with both internal and external stakeholders;and a thorough knowledge of current trends, technology and “best practices” for public libraries. Success working effectively as a director reporting to a governing board, experience working in a union environment and multi-branch experience are desirable.

Compensation. A starting salary range of $105,000-$120,000 (with placement dependent upon experience and qualifications) and a generous benefits package.

For further information, contact Dan or Jobeth Bradbury at Bradbury Associates/Gossage Sager Associates. Apply via email with a meaningful cover letter and resume as Word attachments to Dan Bradbury or Jobeth Bradbury. The position closes August 31, 2010.