Full Speed Ahead. The Town of North Kingstown is looking for a dynamic, forward-thinking leader for its municipal library. Working with over 26,000 residents, a supportive 7-member Board of Trustees, an enthusiastic and experienced staff of 21 employees, and a vibrant Friends of the Library organization, the new Director will need superior budgeting skills and experience in order to create and defend a budget of nearly 2 million dollars while prudently allocating all library resources. While the Director reports to the governing Board of Trustees, they are also a part of the town’s management team, working closely with the Town Manager and other town department heads.
Who we are. The North Kingstown Free Library, located in North Kingstown, Rhode Island, was established in 1898. We occupy a 26,000-square-foot facility in the heart of Wickford in a beautiful setting that overlooks part of Academy Cove. Our library has a long history of providing high-quality traditional and innovative library services. Our South County Room, an important local history resource for the town, includes books, art, and artifacts in its collection. In addition, the library has digitized a number of important local history artifacts and resources in order to provide access to the wider community and world.
Our ideal candidate. The new Director will have a track record of providing innovative and essential library services and programs to residents and stakeholders as well as a commitment to providing stellar patron service. They will have many years of experience managing, developing and evaluating staff. They will be hardworking and adept in the field of technology, always keeping an eye out for new services that will better serve our patrons. They will have excellent written and oral communication skills and will serve as the face of the library in the community. Experience in grant writing is highly desirable, as is experience in managing a facility and overseeing a building renovation.
Competitive benefits include health insurance and participation in the Rhode Island Municipal Employees’ Retirement System.
Minimum requirements. We require an ALA-accredited MLS and a minimum of six years professional public library experience, with at least three in administration.
The position will remain open until filled, but screening of applications will begin immediately. Applications received on or before September 26, 2021 will be given priority consideration. Please send a resume and letter of interest to: Liz Suvari, North Kingstown Free Library Board Chair, PO Box 7, Saunderstown, RI 02874 or via email to lizandagu2@aol.com. A copy of the position description is available upon request.