Library Director
The Keene Public Library Board of Trustees seeks an enthusiastic and energetic community minded leader to serve as its new Director. Join us for the next chapter! The Keene Public Library renovation is almost complete with the main Library building now connected to its renovated annex. This additional space will soon become the technological and creative center for the Library – and, by extension, for the community. With additional space, patrons and community members will find a Maker space, several new technologically-advanced meeting areas, and performance spaces, as well as updated core systems in both buildings, using green technologies and efficiencies where possible. Upon completion, the Keene Public Library will meet our community’s near and future needs, transforming into a model library for the twenty-first century: a center of learning, creativity, collaboration, and community, allowing the Library to thrive as the community’s intellectual and social center. The Library will offer programs and learning opportunities for all ages, as well as initiatives like the new STEM learning program. The STEM program will provide play-based learning activities related to science, technology, engineering and mathematics for children age 2 to 6 and their families. This program is made possible through a multi-year, nearly $250,000 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. We hope you’ll agree- it’s an exciting time to join the Keene Public Library!
The ideal candidate will hold a Master of Library Science degree from an ALA accredited college or university, and will have at least five to seven years of public library management experience, with a minimum of five years of progressively responsible supervisory experience. He/she will be a hands-on manager, willing and able to work side by side with staff when necessary, and have demonstrated experience working with Boards and City government.
Requirements: Experience to include all aspects of library operations: budgeting, financial and library reporting, hiring practices, staff management and development, and effective team building. Must be committed to providing exceptional public service. Demonstrated experience establishing and maintaining good working relationships with staff, volunteers, city officials, working in an environment of diverse needs is essential.
The successful candidate will 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; have a thorough knowledge of library principles and practices, issues and trends. Salary range: $85,892 - $107,037 annualized. The City offers numerous opportunities for growth and development, along with a comprehensive benefits program, including health, dental, life insurances, and retirement plans.
About the area: A friendly and vibrant college town with over 24,000 residents, Keene is a vital part of this southern New Hampshire area. Keene, NH is home to Keene State College (with whom the Library shares an on-line catalog system), River Valley Community College and Antioch University of New England. The area also offers a variety of public and private K-12 education opportunities. Keene exemplifies the best characteristics of small city living, with a thriving downtown area which offers shopping, restaurants, farmers markets, festivals, events, and live theaters and convenient access to diverse outdoor recreation opportunities. Its diverse economy includes a spectrum of everything from family-owned companies to global industry leaders. Keene is a community which places a high value on environmental sustainability, locally-sourced food and products, and historic preservation. It is a welcoming area with something for everyone, and is a great place to live, learn, work, and play for families and professionals.
If you’re a forward thinking candidate who is excited about working with a dedicated team of employees to shape the future of the Keene Public Library, apply online, uploading your resume and cover letter with your application. Applications will be accepted until Monday, May 27th. The City of Keene is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Please apply online at https://ci.keene.nh.us/jobs, uploading your resume and cover letter with your application.