Assistant Regional Library Director - Hatchie River

Hatchie River Regional Library Assistant Regional Library Director

Tennessee Department of State

Tennessee State Library & Archives

Supervisor: Regional Director

Summary: The assistant director is responsible for knowing the libraries in his/her region, developing an intimate understanding of their history, programs and services, goals, strengths and weaknesses. The assistant director is expected to develop strong business relationships with key personnel at each local library, to be accessible, and to provide guidance and advice to board members and library managers.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Assist public library directors and staff by providing training, assistance and guidance in areas including planning, budgeting, supervision, technology, collection development, resource sharing, service improvements, data collection and statistical analysis.
• Attend local library board meetings to ascertain and assist with library policy, planning and development.
• Plan and present group and one-on-one training for library services.
• Provide assistance with grant preparation and monitoring.
• Serve as technical advisor and consultant to the libraries in the region which may include assistance with E-Rate, maintaining websites, hardware and software purchases and technical planning.
• Promote State Library services such as TEL and READS and assist local libraries in developing promotional materials.
• Work with library support groups providing advocacy and awareness.
• Contribute to reports for local libraries and the State Library and Archives.
• Attend mandatory meetings and training sessions which may require overnight travel.
• Has functional supervision of the regional office in the absence of the Regional Director.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
  
  

Minimum Qualifications:

Education and Experience:

• MLS or MLIS from an ALA-accredited library school is required.
• Three years’ experience in library work, preferably in a public library setting, in an increasingly responsible position.
• Supervisory experience preferred, but not required.
  
  

Knowledge and Abilities:

• Demonstrates excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Possesses intermediate to advanced skills in computer operations.
• Has thorough knowledge of current public library practices and trends, including modern library technology.
• Has working knowledge of online library management systems.
• Strong organizational skills, including the ability to establish priorities, follow project timelines and meet project deadlines.
• Has demonstrated skills in public speaking.
• Understands the requirements of adult education and has the ability to plan and present effective library in-service training and continuing education programs.
• Must be willing and able to work a flexible schedule and travel independently throughout the region and the state.
• Requires normal visual acuity and field of vision, hearing, and speaking.
• Must possess a good driving record and valid driver’s license.
• Must exhibit the ability to be a positive influence within the region and while representing the region.
• Ability to work collegially as part of a team.
  
  

Physical Requirements:

• Good hearing, vision and manual dexterity.
• Ability to move and lift materials of 35 pounds.
• Ability to stoop, bend and lift to file and retrieve materials.
• Ability to work in an environment with books that contain dust and other allergens.
  
  

Health, safety and collections security:

• Assist the organization in creating a safe and healthy working environment by working safely with the equipment provided.
• Follow instructions given for health and safety purposes and immediately report any unsafe working practices or hazardous working conditions.
• Take whatever measures are necessary to protect materials, property, and/or the collections from loss, mutilation, or theft.
  
  

Salary: $45,000 annually plus the State of Tennessee benefits package.

About the Hatchie River Regional Library:

The Hatchie River Regional Library staff is a supportive and creative team that works together to improve public library services in Chester, Decatur, Fayette, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Henderson, Lauderdale, Madison, McNairy, and Tipton counties in southwestern Tennessee. The regional office is in Jackson, Madison County, approximately 80 miles northwest of Memphis and 120 miles southeast of Nashville. Jackson offers a revitalized downtown filled with local shops, restaurants, and live music. The former Carnegie Free Library is home to a museum dedicated to regional arts, music, and history. The Hatchie River region includes state parks, such as Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park, that offer a wealth of opportunities for outdoor activities, and its central location makes historic sites, festivals and musical events in West Tennessee easily accessible. If you are looking for rewarding and challenging work in a beautiful and fast-growing area of the state, apply for this position today.