LIBRARY DIRECTOR, Bloomingdale Free Public Library
DEFINITION
The director serves as administrator of the library and will plan, organize and manage
the operation of the library according to the policies, rules and authority delegated by
the Board of Trustees. The director will assess strengths, weaknesses, opportunities,
and challenges to the organization and develop strategies for dealing with them
effectively.
Bloomingdale is home to 7,655 residents in Passaic County. The library is a vibrant
center for community life and learning and reflects the pride the Borough takes in itself.
It is the mission of the Bloomingdale Free Public Library to provide a well-rounded
collection of resources and those services that contribute to the informational,
educational, cultural and recreational needs of this community.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB
1. Establishes, formulates and recommends policies to the Library Board.
Implements and reviews library policies, procedures and practices.
2. Interprets policies to the library staff and the general public.
3. Creates a culture that promotes positive change and a climate for excellence.
4. Recruits, hires, trains, supervises and evaluates professional and support library staff.
5. Assists the Library Board in developing a long-range plan that promotes and
supports the organization’s mission and strategic direction.
6. Prepares annual operating and capital budgets that reflect the library’s mission.
7. Prepares for and attends Library Board meetings. Plans and conducts regularly
scheduled staff meetings.
8. Creates an environment that welcomes diversity and promotes literacy.
9. Promotes intellectual freedom and equal access to information.
10. Communicates the value of library and information services verbally and in
writing to the general public and to decision-makers.
11. Studies the community and directs the development of a balanced program of
library services designed to meet the needs of all the people in the community.
12. Establishes and maintains effective work relationships with the Board of Trustees, Borough Officials, departmental personnel, Bloomingdale Foundation for Literacy members, community organizations, school groups, library associates and the general public.
ADDITIONAL EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED
1. Investigates additional sources of funding, such as, grant applications and working with library support groups (Bloomingdale Foundation for Literacy, other community organizations). Seeks out other libraries for the advantage of group discounts, shared grants and networking.
2. Establishes policies and funding for in-service training and continuing education for employees.
3. Monitors legislation related to libraries and keeps the Library Board and appropriate Borough Officials and library staff informed.
4. Prepares narrative and statistical reports.
5. Represents the library at professional meetings, conferences and seminars.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES
1. Thorough knowledge of the theories, principles and techniques of librarianship.
2. Thorough knowledge of library administration and management techniques, including New Jersey Library Laws.
3. Thorough knowledge of the functions and responsibilities of a Library Board of Trustees.
4. Ability to analyze, comprehend and use current approved public library standards, methods and techniques. The same ability would apply to library budget systems, performance appraisal, job classification and compensation.
5. Ability to oversee a basic collection development plan, which includes approved selection methods, classification and cataloging and related technical administration.
6. Ability to communicate effectively and share knowledge with others.
7. Ability to prepare and present accurate and informative statistical and technical reports.
8. Ability to develop and manage convenient, accessible and cost-effective facilities
and services that promote and support the organization’s mission and strategic direction.
9. Ability to relate to employees and associates and handle personnel issues in a positive and responsive manner.
QUALIFICATIONS
1. A Master’s Degree in Library Science, Master of Science in Library Science, Master of Science in Information Science from a graduate school of Library Science accredited by the American Library Association.
2. New Jersey Professional Librarian’s Certificate
3. Continuing education in the areas of current library services and technology.
4. Active participation in professional library associations and community organizations. Current knowledge of library trends and innovations.
WORK SCHEDULE
Full time position that may require evenings and/or Saturday hours, as required. Salary
range shall reflect NJLA recommended starting salaries for the Administrative Position
of Director (Population 7,500-14,000) and commensurate with experience.
Position available January 1, 2024 with an opportunity to work part-time in the fall for training.
CONTACT
Please Email resume to bloomingdalefplibrary [at] gmail.com