Under limited supervision of the Yuma County Library District Director, this role is responsible for the promotion of the library’s collection and services to the public. Includes marketing, public relations, media relations, advertising, digital strategy, and internal communication; the Community Relations Specialist creates and disseminates promotional material through appropriate media channels such as traditional print publications (flyers, signs, and posters) as well as online graphics; the Community Relations Specialist will assist library management in identifying, developing, implementing, and evaluating all marketing and promotional strategies for YCLD.; this position has department specific responsibility.

(Illustrative Only) Develops and manages the implementation of the library’s comprehensive advocacy and marketing plans. This includes day-to-day responsibilities such as writing press releases, managing marketing campaigns, designing graphics, and working with various departments on marketing initiatives; develops on-going relationships with the local media to ensure fair library coverage as a means of informing the public; maintains a current media contact list and obtains media coverage for library events; uses excellent writing and editing skills to prepare and/or oversee a wide range of communications content, including public announcements, reports, email newsletters, presentations, infographics, website content, and social media posts; participates in radio and television interviews; develops and implements public information and public relations programs to encourage use of the libraries; evaluates message effectiveness; develops, manages, and schedules social media communications including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, etc. Manages the content of digital signage; works closely with Library Webmaster in the vision, development, and updating of the Library District’s website; develops internal communications messages that ensure staff remain informed; coordinates interdepartmental and intradepartmental communication to all personnel; develops assessment tools to evaluate programs and assess the library service and program needs of Yuma County residents, library patrons, and special target groups via market research methods; oversees design of newsletter, flyers, brochures, annual report, events calendar and other publication or promotional materials, both in print and on the website; coordinates bulk print jobs with outside vendor; uses targeted e-newsletters and social media to market the Library District’s programs and events; oversees design and implementation of publicity for library programs; assists with the organization and set up of exhibits that become available to the library and/or informational exhibits about the library system at outside events; attends conferences and uses professional materials to stay abreast of current practices in marketing and library practices; develops policies and procedures as assigned; provides public relations and other related training to staff as needed or directed; assists the Library District’s Management Team in marketing efforts and public information issues including, but not limited to, long and mid range planning efforts; researches and develops potential new products and their impact on the library and the community in anticipation of patron needs; provides written and verbal monthly and annual reports; regular and reliable attendance is required; performs other duties as assigned.

Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Marketing, Journalism, or Communications OR a closely related field, and two (2) years of public relations experience; OR any combination of education, training, and experience which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position; requires successful completion of a background check. Must possess and maintain a valid Arizona driver’s license.

Knowledge of: County policies and procedures; modern principles and practices of public relations and publicity for libraries; public relations strategies and techniques; media personnel; development and design of publicity materials; website development and upkeep; books, authors, and electronic information sources; graphic editing software applications.

Skill in: Developing and implementing a product line approach to promoting library programs and services; assessing library service and program needs of Yuma County residents, library patrons and special target groups; speaking effectively in public and responding to spontaneous question; composing, editing and presenting clear and effective public relations materials; developing a working relationship with appropriate media; computer operations and automated systems; providing effective customer-oriented service; providing written and verbal reports; learning new multimedia technology.

Ability to: Communicate effectively verbally and in writing; to use modern office equipment and computers; to proofread and edit for content, grammar, and spelling; planning and organizing work; lift up to 5 - 25 lbs.; perform the essential functions of the job specifications with or without a reasonable accommodation.

The usual and customary methods of performing the job’s functions require the following physical demands: occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling; some stooping, and/or kneeling; and significant fine finger dexterity. Generally, the job requires 60% sitting, 20% walking and 20% standing; working at a computer monitor for extended periods required; the job is performed under minimal temperature variations and in a generally hazard free environment.