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 www.gossagesager.com/kdllinks.htm.
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.
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.
For further information, contact Gossage
Sager Associates/Bradbury Associates via email or call 816-531-2468. Apply
via email with a meaningful cover letter and your resume as Word
attachments to [log in to unmask]
or [log in to unmask].
The position closes August 31, 2010.
Jobeth Bradbury
Gossage Sager Associates
4545 Wornall Rd., Ste. 805
Kansas City, MO 64111
816.803.7087
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