Allen Parish Libraries System
DIRECTOR
Full-Time
SUMMARY: With oversight by the Board of Control, this individual has ultimate responsibility for administration of all library outlets, services and functions of the Allen Parish Libraries. This is an exempt position. Performs related and other work as required.
REQUIRED TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE: Attainment of B.A. or B.S. from an accredited university/college; attainment of a graduate degree in Library and/or Information Science from an ALA-accredited library program; extensive public library experience as a paid, full-time professional, which includes 5 years of increasingly responsible library experience (post-MLS) with a minimum of 2 years in upper level administration work in a parish (county) or municipal library managed by a board of control (e.g., directing a small public library or supervising a large department/branch). Must have certification by the Louisiana Board of Library Examiners or be able to attain certification within the first year of employment. If assigned a library vehicle to drive on a regular basis, must have a good driving record with no DWI violations within the past five years and no other moving violations within the past year.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS: Comprehensive knowledge of: professional library principles and practices; public library functions, facilities, and operations; patron needs and library services to meet those needs; and standard library automated system modules. Experience in: financial, budget, and human-resource management. Demonstrated ability to: administer library system operations and projects; establish and maintain effective working relationships with board and staff, as well as local government officials, communities, organizations, and the public; and strong communication skills, both oral and written.
GENERAL DUTIES:
• Directs (including planning, organizing and coordinating) the operation of the entire library system.
• Acts as secretary of the Board of Control; responsible for implementation of policies and decisions.
• Plays a leading role in tax elections, bond issues, and other funding initiatives; recommends detailed budgets to the Board and/or its appropriate committees.
• Develops long-range objectives and plans; initiates implementation of Board-adopted goals; heavily involved in capital programs (including land acquisition, construction and renovation).
• Participates in community activities and is a highly visible member of the community
• Exercises direct and indirect supervision; responsible for and provides oversight and guidance (as needed) in the following:
o types, levels, and standards of library services and programs offered; automation and technical services, public relations, and promotion.
o decisions concerning library personnel (including hiring, employment and discipline).
o interpretation and application of policy; resolution of inquiries and/or complaints.
o aspects of projects, policies, studies, reports or data.
o maintenance and security of facilities, systems and grounds.
• Performs other necessary duties as required.
THE LIBRARY: Allen Parish Libraries is a public library system in Louisiana with 3 branches: the main library is in Oberlin and branches are in Kinder and Oakdale. The library system has combined holdings of over 100,000 items and an annual budget which exceeds $800,000. Circulation for 2009 was more than 150,000. Allen Parish Libraries has a staff of 7 full-time and 17 part-time employees. The library’s automation system is Polaris Integrated Library System. The library is a member of Libraries Southwest , a six parish cooperative library system in the southwest region of the state, and Bayouland, an eight parish cooperative library system in the southern region of the state.
THE AREA: Allen Parish has a population of approximately 25,000 and is located in southwest Louisiana on Highway 165 between the cities of Lake Charles and Alexandria. Agriculture and timber play significant roles in the economy of the parish. Home of the Coushatta Indian Tribe known as the “Red Shoes People,” Allen Parish has the largest land-based casino resort in Louisiana, the Coushatta Casino Resort. Hunting, fishing, and canoeing are readily available for those who love the outdoors.
BENEFITS: Benefits are generous and include annual leave, sick leave, paid holidays, health insurance and pension participation. The library pays for the director’s ALA and LLA memberships as well as continuing education workshops and professional conferences.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of resumes will begin immediately and resumes will be accepted until the position is filled.
STARTING DATE: Position available May 1, 2011
SALARY: $45,000-$55,000
CONTACT: Send letter of application, resume, and names and addresses of three professional references to:
Kay Sonnier, President
Allen Parish Libraries
P.O. Box 400
Oberlin, LA 70655
If you have questions regarding the application process or the position, contact:
Karen Teigen
Allen Parish Libraries
P. O. Box 400
Oberlin, LA 70655
TEL: 337-639-4315
A criminal background check and a drug screening are part of the pre-hire process. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or non-job related disability. Our facilities are non-smoking.
