DESOTO PARISH LIBRARY
SUMMARY: With oversight by the Board of Control, this individual has ultimate responsibility for administration of all library outlets, services and functions. 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 university; at least seven years of paid, full-time professional (post-MLS) library experience which reflects increasing responsibility, including at least four years of paid, full-time experience in an administrative capacity (e.g., directing a medium-sized system or supervising a very large department/branch). [Outstanding, paid, full-time, directly applicable experience may substitute for up to one year of the library experience requirement.] 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: (1) professional library principles and practices; (2) public library functions, facilities, and operations; (3) patron needs and library services to meet those needs; (4) standard library automated system modules. Demonstrated ability to: (1) administer library system operations and projects; (2) establish and maintain effective working relationships with trustees, administrators, supervisors and employees; city/parish officials and departments, communities, organizations and the public; (3) communicate effectively, orally and in writing, to groups and individuals.
GENERAL DUTIES
• Directs (including planning, organizing and coordinating) 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).
• 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
DeSoto Parish Library is a public library system in Louisiana with 4 branches. The library system has combined holdings of over 139,000 items and an annual budget which exceeds $1.3 million. Circulation for 2009 was more than 132,000. DPL has a staff of 28 (23 FTE). The library's automation system is SirsiDynix.
THE AREA
DeSoto Parish is a wonderful community located deep in the heart of Louisiana's Sportsman Paradise Region. The parish seat is located in Mansfield, about 30 minutes south of Shreveport-Bossier City, and the parish has a population of 26,401. Agriculture, timber, mining, and the oil and gas industries play a significant role in the economy of the parish. The pleasure-loving nature of the region manifests itself in festivals, dancing, and food. http://www.louisianatravel.com/destinations
BENEFITS
12 days vacation/year (with increases every other year), 12 paid holidays/year + 1 personal day, and sick leave. Medical, dental and life insurance; library pays 75% of employee's and dependents' insurance premiums. Excellent retirement system with. Tuition reimbursement available, after one year of employment. Good library support for continuing education and attendance at conference.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Review of resumes will begin immediately and resumes will be accepted until the position is filled.
STARTING DATE: Position available Immediately
SALARY: $50 - $60 K /year + benefits (commensurate with experience)
CONTACT: Send letter of application, resume and three professional references to:
Mrs. Katherine Freeman, President Board of Control
P.O. Box 819
Logansport, LA 71049
If you have questions regarding the application process or the position, contact:
Bill Smith, Public Service Administrator
109 Crosby Street
Mansfield, LA 71052
Ph: (318) 872-6100
Fax: (318) 872-6120
e-mail:
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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.
