Director’s Position

Become a vital part of the future of library services in Chautauqua and Cattaraugus Counties.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced leader to serve as the chief executive officer of the Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Library System. The position requires an energetic and creative individual with a strong vision of how library services and their delivery will change in the future. The applicant should have the ability to work with member libraries that have a wide range of resources and be able to create services that meet their needs. The candidate must possess effective management skills and experience and have proficiency in preparing and administering budgets. 

General Information
The Director administers the Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Library System (CCLS) which is a cooperative library system chartered by the NYS Regents to serve the 36 public libraries in the two county area. CCLS has an annual budget totaling $1.3 million and employs 12 full and part time staff. 

Major Responsibilities
• Manage all System service operations and provide leadership and direction, recommend policy to the board, implement adopted policies, prepare strategic plans and annual goal statements.
• Recruit, select and supervise System staff. Provide leadership that creates an effective and productive working environment.
• Administer the financial resources to deliver high quality, efficient and cost-effective System services that address member library priorities; consult regularly with System trustees and member library directors.
• Prepare and effectively administer the budget; prepare budget applications to State and County governments, and grant applications as appropriate.
• Ensure that System procedures, policies and official records conform to applicable laws and regulations.
• Supervise the maintenance and improvement of System facilities.
• Seek imaginative and innovative means for delivering services tailored to meet the library and information needs of a diverse group of member libraries.
• Serve as a consultant to member library staff and trustees on administrative, legal and service issues.
• Maintain good working relations and open communication with individual member library directors.
• Work cooperatively with the directors of the two co-central libraries: James Prendergast in Jamestown, NY and the Olean Public Library, Olean, NY.
• Demonstrate understanding of technology and its growing and changing applications to libraries.
• Keep abreast of current practice in the profession through reading, networking with colleagues, attending workshops and conferences and being active in professional organizations.
• Provide advocacy for libraries at the local, county and state levels and establish working relationships with elected officials at all levels, as well as with the New York State Library.

Required Personal Abilities
• Values the importance of equal access to books, information and culture in a democracy.
• Thinks strategically and is well organized with the ability to schedule time effectively and meet deadlines.
• Possesses both a broad vision and attention to detail.
• Is resourceful, enthusiastic, flexible and has the ability to motivate others.
• Treats others with honesty, empathy and respect.
• Is open to creative and innovative solutions.
• Communicates clearly in both written and oral form.
• Listens well and seeks to understand.

Required Education and Experience
• A master’s degree (MLS) from an ALA accredited library school.
• Possess or be eligible for New York State Public Librarian’s Professional Certificate.
• Eight or more years of progressively responsible library experience, four years of which must have been in an administrative capacity in a library. Some public library experience is preferred.
• Commitment to professional development as demonstrated by participation in continuing education opportunities.
• Possess a valid driver’s license or be eligible for a NYS driver’s license, as position requires travel within two county area and to seminars and workshops as needed.
• Live in or be willing to relocate to Chautauqua or Cattaraugus County.

Salary and Benefits
• Salary is negotiable beginning at $78,000 with a competitive benefit package.
• Apply on-line at http://directorsearch.weebly.com/
• For further information contact: Patricia A. Smith at [log in to unmask] or 716 483-6939.
• Review of applications begins May 20, 2013.