Library Director

This job description outlines the general nature and level of work performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required.

Location: Rapid City, SD

Job Summary: This position is a key member of the City’s executive leadership team, responsible for directing the planning, development, and administration of the Rapid City Public Library. This role ensures high-quality, equitable access to library services, long-term stewardship of library assets, and strong community engagement that supports literacy, lifelong learning, and residents’ quality of life.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Oversees the planning, development, and evaluation of library facilities, collections, digital resources, technology-based services, and community programs to ensure modern, accessible, and responsive library operations.
• Leads, motivates, and develops team members while fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Serves as the primary advisor to the Library Board, Mayor, City Council, and City department heads on library operations, policy matters, community needs, and emerging trends.
• Develops and implements long-term strategic plans, goals, and service priorities for Library Board consideration and approval.
• Develops and administers the library’s annual budget, ensuring fiscal accountability, resource optimization, and compliance with City financial policies and appropriations.
• Develops and enforces library policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure regulatory compliance and operational effectiveness.
• Directs research, statistical reporting, and analysis of service trends. Evaluates digital and traditional service models to guide innovation and improvement.
• Builds and maintains positive relationships with government agencies, community groups, the Library Foundation, volunteers, professional organizations, and other partners to strengthen library services and expand community impact.
• Coordinates public awareness efforts, programming priorities, and communication strategies with the Library Board, staff, community agencies, and municipal partners to support consistent, effective public engagement.
• Represents the library in interactions with City Council, the County Commission, advisory boards, committees, and professional organizations to advocate for library needs and advance professional standards.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Library Science, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field required. Master’s degree preferred.
• Ten years of progressively responsible experience in library administration, public administration, or related area required, including seven years of leadership or management experience.
• Must possess a valid South Dakota driver's license or ability to obtain within 30 days from date of hire.
• Grade 1 Library Director certification from the South Dakota State Library preferred.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated experience managing budgets, leading organizational strategy, and overseeing complex operations at a department or division level required.
• Comprehensive knowledge of public library operations, collections, programming, digital services, community engagement, and emerging technologies that support modern and accessible library services.

Working Environment:

• The noise level in the work environment is typically quiet.
• Regularly required to sit; use hands to handle or feel objects; and communicate clearly by talking and hearing.
• Occasionally required to stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms.
• Requires close vision abilities necessary for reading, computer work, and detailed tasks.
• Must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

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Additional Information

Rapid City Public Library