Rochester Public Library seeks library director

Job description: Library director

The Library Director works under the direction of the Rochester Public Library Board and is responsible for the overall administration and management of the library. Key responsibilities include developing and maintaining the library collection, managing the library budget, supporting community outreach and partnerships, supervising staff, overseeing library operations and services, coordinating with Prairie Lakes Library System, and promoting the library within the Village of Rochester and surrounding communities.

Administrative duties

• Serves as the library’s executive officer and adviser to the library.
• Implements library policies as established by the board.
• Prepares a draft of the annual library budget for board discussion and review.
• Participates in the presentation of the budget to the Rochester Village Board.
• Receives and expends library funds according to established guidelines and maintains accurate and up-to-date records showing the status of library finances.
• Recruits, selects, hires, supervises, evaluates, and terminates, if necessary, library staff in conformity with library policy and state and federal law (and any applicable local civil service regulations and/or union contracts).
• Attends meetings of the library board, village board, and library system advisory committees.
• Prepares various types of reports and documentation.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the library board.

Collection management duties

• Selects, catalogs, organizes, manages, and weeds the library collection per the library’s collection development policy.
• Maintains an accurate and up-to-date database of user registrations and activities, including information adequate to support reimbursement requests for non-resident borrowing.

Service and service promotion duties

• Develops, oversees, and executes an array of service programs to address the various needs of users and to make the library accessible to all, including storytimes, summer reading program, services for users with special needs, and homebound services.
• Uses data and local knowledge to engage in ongoing evaluation of community needs and library services.
• Ensures friendly and efficient customer service by library staff to the public.
• Organizes and assists local volunteer groups (for example, Library Friends) who wish to help with library promotion, fundraising, and enhancement of services.
• Applies for grants in order to supplement local funding of library operations and programs.
• Maintains records showing all programs offered and the number of attendees at each.

Facilities management duties

• Oversees care and maintenance of the library building and grounds.
• Regularly reviews building needs and budgets accordingly for building improvements and repairs.
• Assists with cleaning the library and keeping walkways clear of snow and ice.

Necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities

• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Knowledge of public library philosophy, principles, and procedures, enabling effective recommendations to the board and sound decision-making across a wide range of issues.
• Ability to effectively communicate in both written and verbal form.
• Ability to work with confidential information.
• Ability to work with and present to governing boards, community groups, and elected officials.
• Ability to supervise others and delegate responsibilities.
• Ability to learn the SirsiDynix Symphony library management application and train library staff.
• Ability to follow instructions, prioritize work, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds on a frequent basis, for example, to retrieve books from an outside book drop box, unload crates of interlibrary loan materials, accept delivery shipments of new library materials and supplies, shovel snow, and assist patrons with building evacuation in an emergency.
• Knowledge and ability to read, write, type, sort, file, and use office equipment, including computers, telephones, faxes, and copiers.
• Ability to work hours and assignments as required by the library.

Required education, experience, and certification

• Grade II public librarian certification. The requirements for a Grade II certification include: a bachelor's degree and 12 library-related semester credits in basic public library administration, advanced public library administration, management of collections, and public and community services, or a minor in library services.
• Maintenance of required certification or licensure through necessary coursework and/or qualifying continuing education.
• A valid driver’s license to conduct library business as needed.

Physical requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that will be required to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Sara Damaschke

PO BOX 245