Director of Library

Director of Library

James E. Nichols Memorial Library – Center Harbor, New Hampshire

Reports to: Library Board of Trustees

Position: Part-Time, approximately 30 hours per week

Compensation: $28–$32 per hour, based on experience

Benefits: This is a part-time position and does not include benefits.

Point of Contact for this position: Sandy Frost, President of the Board of Trustees

Position Summary

The James E. Nichols Memorial Library is seeking an energetic, resourceful, and community-minded Librarian to lead the day-to-day operations of our small-town library.

The Librarian serves as the Library's chief administrative officer under the direction and oversight of the Library Board of Trustees. This is a highly independent, hands-on leadership position responsible for managing Library staff, overseeing daily operations, developing programming, maintaining the collection, engaging with the community, and helping shape the Library's future.

The ideal candidate is comfortable taking initiative rather than waiting for direction. We are looking for someone who will identify opportunities, develop new programs and services, and bring ideas forward that help the Library remain an active and valuable part of the Center Harbor community.

The Board of Trustees is responsible for Library governance, policy oversight, and management of the Town-approved budget and Library expenses. Within that framework, the Librarian is entrusted with substantial responsibility for independently managing the Library's staff, programs, services, and daily operations.

Experience identifying grant opportunities and writing successful grant proposals is strongly preferred, since the Library relies on external funding to support many of its programming, technology, collections, and other initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Daily Operations

• Manage the day-to-day operation of the Library and ensure that patrons receive welcoming, efficient, and courteous service in accordance to Library’s policies and community standards.
• Supervise and manage all Library staff, including scheduling, work assignments, training, development, and annual evaluations.
• Direct and supervise Library volunteers.
• Recommend hiring and removal of staff to the Board of Trustees in accordance with applicable New Hampshire law.
• Maintain a working knowledge of Library procedures, systems, equipment, computers, software, printers, and other technology.
• Perform and oversee circulation desk responsibilities, including interlibrary loan and other patron services.
• Process and catalog incoming materials.
• Provide reference, technology, and computer assistance to patrons.
• Monitor routine maintenance of the Library building and grounds and promptly communicate repair or maintenance needs to the Board.

Programming & Library Development

• Take initiative in identifying, developing, and implementing new programs and services that respond to the interests and needs of the community.
• Plan and implement regular adult programming, such as author talks, educational programs, workshops, and book clubs.
• Plan and implement programming for children and teens, including storytimes, summer reading programs, school partnerships, and other activities.
• Explore virtual, digital, and other creative offerings that expand access to Library services.
• Evaluate programs for participation, effectiveness, community feedback, and cost.
• Seek opportunities to strengthen and expand Library services through partnerships, fundraising opportunities, and community collaboration.
• Identify appropriate grant opportunities and assist with or lead the preparation and submission of grant proposals.

Policy & Governance

• Work collaboratively with the Board of Trustees while recognizing the Board's responsibility for governance and oversight of the Library.
• Assist the Board in developing, reviewing, updating, and revising Library policies as needed.
• Develop and maintain operational procedures for Library services, and present any changes to the Board for approval where appropriate.
• Participate in local and regional conferences, workshops, and other professional development opportunities relevant to the Library.

Goals & Strategic Planning

• Assist the Board in establishing short- and long-term goals for the Library.
• Regularly report progress, challenges, opportunities, and recommendations to the Board.
• Bring forward ideas for improving Library services, programming, operations, and community engagement.

Budget & Financial Administration

• Understand the Library's responsibility to provide high-quality community services while operating within a taxpayer-funded budget.
• Operate programs and services in a cost-conscious manner consistent with the Board-approved budget.
• Monitor Library spending and alert the Board to anticipated budget concerns or needs.
• Work with the Treasurer to reconcile invoices and purchase orders and promptly submit bills for payment.
• Assist the Board with preparation of the annual Library budget.
• Recommend expenditures and priorities based on operational and community needs.

Collection Development & Acquisitions

• Ensure the Library's collection development plan reflects the community's needs and interests.
• Select and acquire materials consistent with Library policy, available funding, and established goals.
• Maintain, manage, evaluate, and weed the Library collection in accordance with Library policy.

Reporting & Accountability

• Prepare a written report on Library operations for the Board of Trustees each month and attend monthly Board meetings.
• Compile and maintain circulation, acquisition, withdrawal, programming, and other relevant Library statistics.
• Assist the Board Chairperson in preparing the Library's annual report to the Town.
• Prepare and submit required annual reports to the State of New Hampshire.
• Maintain appropriate operational records and documentation.

Community Engagement

• Serve as a visible, welcoming representative of the Library within the Center Harbor community.
• Promote Library services and programs through in-person outreach, print materials, the Library's website, social media, and other appropriate channels.
• Regularly evaluate Library services in relation to the needs and interests of the community.
• Recommend and implement improvements that enhance the Library's value to patrons and residents.
• Maintain and develop relationships with schools, community organizations, local groups, and other potential partners.
• Encourage and collaborate with organizations such as the Friends of the Library and other community groups that support the Library's mission.

Professional Development

• Stay informed about developments, trends, and best practices in the library profession.
• Maintain current knowledge of relevant New Hampshire statutes and requirements.
• Stay current with technology and applications relevant to Library operations and patron services.
• Participate in appropriate professional organizations and continuing education opportunities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Library Science, Information Science, or a related field from an accredited program, but not required.
• Four or more years of experience in library management, nonprofit leadership, staff management, community programming, or other relevant experience preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to independently manage staff and day-to-day operations.
• Strong organizational, communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Comfortable taking initiative, solving problems independently, and bringing new ideas from concept through implementation.
• Experience developing community programs, events, or services.
• Grant research and grant proposal writing experience strongly preferred.
• Comfortable working directly with patrons of all ages and backgrounds.
• Familiarity with library technology, circulation systems, social media, and common office technology is desirable.

Schedule & Compensation

This is a part-time position averaging approximately 30 hours per week. The position requires flexibility to accommodate Library operating hours, programs, community events, and monthly Board meetings, and typically includes one Saturday per month.

Compensation is $28–$32 per hour, based on qualifications and experience.

This position does not include benefits.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The James E. Nichols Memorial Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal or state law.

The James E. Nichols Memorial Library aspires to create a friendly, inviting, accessible atmosphere for all to enjoy.

Qualified applicants should mail or email their resume and references to:

Sandy Frost, Library Trustee Chair

Nichols Memorial Library, 35 Plymouth Street, Center Harbor, NH 03226

sandyparksandrec@gmail.com

Pay: $28.00 - $32.00 per hour

Expected hours: 30.0 per week

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $28 - $32