Branch Manager

MISSION:

The mission of the Hancock County Library System is to inspire lifelong learning, promote the joy of reading, and strengthen our communities by providing open access to cultural, intellectual, technological, and informational resources.

BACKGROUND:

Hancock County Library System (HCLS) ─ Founded in 1935, the Hancock County Library System is a county-wide library system headquartered in Bay St. Louis, MS. The library system serves the entire Hancock County area with individual branches located in Bay St. Louis, Diamondhead (East Hancock), Kiln, Pearlington, and Waveland, MS. The HCLS offers a full array of conventional library services to area residents ─ individuals and families ─ plus access to new technology including business support services. Examples of amenities and services available include research, public computers, access to legal forms, free on-site WI-FI, scanning, faxing, copying (B&W and color), online tutoring for students, 3D printing, and more. The HCLS also offers a wide variety of programs for different audiences ─ from younger pre-school children, tweens and teens, through adults and senior citizens. Hours of operation vary by library branch location. Most services and programs presented by HCLS are made available free of charge to the public. Detailed information by location can be found by visiting the HCLS website: https://hcls.info

SUMMARY:
Under the direction of the Executive Director, this position is responsible for the overall operation of the East Hancock (Diamondhead) branch of the Hancock County Library System. The role involves managing services, staff, and physical facilities during a time of transition within the library system. The ideal candidate will be an experienced leader with strong library management skills and a commitment to delivering exceptional customer service.

GENERAL SKILLS:

• Ability to work with all members of the public and provide excellent service to a diverse set of customers.
• Strong leadership and staff management abilities in a customer service setting.
• Proficient in following established procedures and existing library policies.
• Ability to compile reports and statistics on a daily, monthly, and annual basis.
• Competence in operating various equipment such as computers, printers, and fax machines.
• Ability to learn and use the Atriuum Integrated Library System and the OPAC searching interface.
• Proficiency in navigating a Windows-based software environment (experience with Microsoft Word and Excel is required).
• Ability to maintain professional working relationships with branch and library system personnel.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Supervise and manage the East Hancock branch of the library system as assigned by the Executive Director.
• Ensure the provision of public library services to the residents served by the branch, in alignment with the policies set by the Hancock County Library System Board of Trustees.
• Implement and enforce policies established by the Director and Library Board of Trustees.
• Set and maintain employee working schedules, managing branch personnel under this position.
• Oversee opening and closing procedures.
• Monitor the condition of the physical plant and report any issues to administration.
• Provide branch customers with reference, circulation, reader’s advisory, community information, and other public library services.
• Assist the Youth Services Coordinator in providing library services for children and teens, including a weekly Story Hour during the school year.
• Compile and maintain records and statistics as required.
• Maintain an atmosphere of trust and goodwill with Hancock County residents.
• Support and contribute to the library system’s ongoing public relations campaign.
• Serve as the initial point of contact for resolving problems or complaints from branch users.
• Recommend materials for purchase based on the needs of the community.
• Attend workshops and take advantage of training opportunities as required.
• Perform any other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• A bachelor’s degree from a four-year university, with coursework in library and information science preferred.
• At least two (2) years of public service experience.
• At least five (5) years of supervisory experience.
• Knowledge of telephone etiquette and excellent personal communication skills.
• A valid driver’s license and up-to-date automobile insurance.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit for extended periods.
• Ability to frequently stand, walk, and bend.
• Ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 30 lbs.
• Normal manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
• Ability to use audiovisual equipment and electronic office equipment, including computers, telephones, calculators, copiers, printers, and fax machines.
• Ability to work under conditions involving exposure to dust.
• Ability to drive with a valid driver’s license and personal transportation.