The Board of Trustees of the West Branch (MI) District Library is inviting applications for the position of Director.  This gem of a library is in a recently expanded and renovated 10,000 square foot building in the heart of the downtown area.  The West Branch District Library serves a population of just under 10,000 with a budget of about $300,000 and a staff of three (3) full-time and three (3) part-time employees.  As a district library, the Library is an autonomous governmental unit that has a dedicated millage.  A member of the Valley Library Consortium, the Library participates in a shared automation system using SirsiDynix-Horizon 7.5.4.1.   The Library enjoys excellent community support and prides itself on a strong Friends of the Library organization, an active Board of Trustees, and a professional, friendly staff.

West Branch is located in beautiful Ogemaw County in northeast Michigan, which abounds in lakes, streams, hiking trails, and countless recreational activities.  Just off I-75, West Branch is easily accessible.

For additional information about the Library, visit www.westbranchlibrary.org.  To learn more about the community, visit www.westbranch.com and www.wbacc.com.

The position:  Must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university; a Master’s degree in library science or library and information science from an accredited ALA program is preferred.  In addition, a minimum of three (3) years of increasingly responsible experience in a professional library position, of which at least two (2) years have been in a position of administration and supervision in a public library, is also preferred.  The successful candidate will be a community – oriented individual who values the opportunity to interact with the public as a hands-on director; is flexible and energetic; has strong communication skills and is comfortable with public speaking; has a comprehensive understanding of library finances and budgeting; and an overall understanding of current public library operations and services.  Successful experience in working with Friends of the Library, in fund-raising, and grant writing is desirable.  A complete position description is available at, www.westbranchlibrary.org.

Beginning Salary: $40,000 - $45,000 dependent on experience and educational qualification, in addition, excellent benefit package included.

Applications Acceptance:    Interested individuals should include a cover letter that specifically addresses the position requirements, a resume, and three references with contact information. All applications will be accepted until the position is filled, through electronic submission to shirey.kathy@gmail.com.

Job title: LIBRARY DIRECTOR

Job Duties:

·         Administers and oversees total library operation

·         Selects and procures materials, equipment, and supplies

·         Handles correspondence and public relations

·         Prepares bills and receipts for accountant to process

·         Prepares annual budget for library board approval

·         Prepares annual state aid report and any other required report

·         Attends monthly Library Board, VLC, and White Pine Library Coop meetings

·         Attends annual MLA conferences and other appropriate meetings / conferences as budget allows

·         Recommends policies and services

·         Oversees building / physical plant

·         Hires, fires and supervises staff; schedules and processes annual evaluations

·         Organizes collection; keeps current and in good condition

·         Oversees technology and circulation procedures; oversees maintenance of patron records

·         Helps plan and oversee library programs

·         Schedules meeting room use

·         Keeps record of memorial donations and sends formal notes of appreciation

·         Notifies library board meetings and prepares Librarian’s Report for monthly meetings

·         Oversees and assists in daily operation of library when and where needed

·         Oversees and encourages volunteers and Friends of the Library activities

Job Requirements

·         A broad understanding of library services

·         Ability to deal effectively with officials, co-workers, community leaders, and the public with tact and courtesy

·         Bachelor’s degree with several years’ management experience required, Master’s degree in library science or library and information science, from an ALA accredited program, preferred.

Hours:  Full- time 40 hours a week position

Salary: Negotiable depending on qualifications and education

Benefits:  Vacation, sick, personal and holiday leave.  Health and life insurance. Participation in MERS retirement plan as well as a deferred compensation plan.

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