The Keene Public Library is seeking an experienced professional to work closely with the Library Director and a service-oriented staff in our vibrant downtown area! Although the Keene Public Library has been operating with reduced hours and services for many months due to COVID, our doors are once again open to the public with limited hours and services, allowing us to move forward with recruitment for this essential position which has been waiting for the best candidate. As a member of the executive leadership team, the right person for this role will have initiative, considerable independence of judgment and the ability to make sound decisions within broad and general policies and procedures. Are you the person we’ve been searching for?
The person in this role will assist the Library Director with a variety of duties, such as long-range planning, goal setting, and policy development, as well as recruitment, selection, hiring, training and evaluation of employees and volunteers. While focused on technical services, adult services, and daily operations, this position also helps to develop programs, services, technologies and initiatives to meet current and emerging needs.
Keene Public Library serves a community of about 24,000. In 2019, the Library renovated and annexed an historic building, adding 20,000 SF to the main Library building. The Library is now over 70,000 SF, making it the largest library in New Hampshire! With the expansion, patrons and community members now have a Maker space, several new technologically-advanced meeting areas and performance spaces, as well as updated core systems in both buildings. The Library is Keene’s center of learning, creativity, collaboration, and community, with programs and learning opportunities for all ages.
Salary range: $63,458 - $79,080 annualized. The City offers employees a comprehensive benefits program, including health, dental, life insurances, and retirement plans, as well as opportunities for growth and development.
Requirements: Master’s degree in library science from an ALA accredited institution, plus five years related experience, with at least three years in a supervisory capacity, or equivalent combination of education and experience. The ideal candidate will have experience in all aspects of library operations: budgeting, financial and library reporting, hiring practices, staff management and development, and effective team building, and be a hands-on manager, willing and able to work side by side with staff. He/she will have demonstrated skills in establishing and maintaining good working relationships with staff, volunteers, and City officials, be committed to providing exceptional public service, and have experience working with Boards and City government. He/she will also be proficient with library software and circulation services; have a thorough knowledge of and experience using social media and emerging technologies in library and information services; and have a thorough knowledge of library principles and practices, issues and trends. Experience working in an environment of diverse needs is essential. Please see job description for a full list of duties and qualifications.
If you are interested in being part of a future-focused library team and you have the desired qualifications, this could be the opportunity you’ve been looking for! Apply today, and submit a resume and cover letter with your application. Applications will be accepted through Sunday, May 2nd.
The City of Keene is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
About the Keene area: While some describe the Keene area as “the Currier and Ives corner of New Hampshire,” it serves as the regional center for commerce, employment, cultural attractions, outdoor activities, community events, educational resources, fine dining, and historical landmarks. The business community represents the full spectrum of enterprises from family-owned companies to world-wide leaders in industry. Geographically situated in the heart of New England, it allows easy access to several popular metropolitan areas including Boston, Hartford, Portland, New York, and Montreal.