DLA

Library Director

Reimagine, Restore & Transform. Be a part of planning for the future as the next Library Director, Hoboken Public Library (NJ). Serving as a respected and beloved civic asset located in a historic 1897 landmark building on Church Square Park, the Hoboken Public Library’s mission is to “connect people with each other, ideas, and opportunities to support lifelong learning, personal growth, and community development.” The Library Director will lead a committed, progressive staff (42 full and part time) as it simultaneously continues to expand and improve traditional library services while transforming and expanding new services focusing on the diversity of Hoboken’s population, emergent library technologies, new roles for public libraries, and external partnership development. Working closely with a nine-member appointed Board, a dedicated Friends group, an active Foundation, and City officials, the Library Director will determine the course of library services for years to come. Key opportunities include actively and intentionally supporting an inclusive and welcoming environment for both staff and community members; continuing the work on the Capital Master Plan—3^rd  floor renovation and new HVAC system of the Main Library, converting the two adjacent townhouses to a library annex space, and entertaining the possibility of a new Uptown Branch facility; expanding the growing outreach services program that explores new service delivery models; increase capacity through space re-design of the Main Library; developing and implementing a new strategic plan; and actively engaging in fundraising, development, and grant-writing. The Hoboken Public Library serves 53,000 City residents and operates with a $6mil annual operating budget.

Our Community.  Hoboken is a small City with a big heart and embraces all residents—from single, upwardly mobile adults to young families to active seniors. Hoboken celebrates and honors its diverse community where all feel safe, welcomed, and valued.  This lively, walkable city is a unique delight. Strategically located on the banks of the Hudson River across from lower Manhattan, residents and visitors enjoy waterside walkways with postcard-perfect views. Hoboken, one of twelve municipalities in Hudson County, packs a punch in one colorful, urban square mile. It has enticing parks, outdoor recreation, and one-of-a kind shopping with restaurants and clubs along the way on its main thoroughfare, Washington Avenue. Hoboken residents enjoy a vibrant quality of life and an energy rare in a city its size. Known as a “Gateway to America,” Hudson County is one of the most successful examples of urban development in the United States. For more information on the Library, Hoboken’s #1 destination, and the City of Hoboken, visit Hoboken Links.

Responsibilities. Under the direction of the Library Board of Trustees, the Library Director is responsible for planning, directing, managing and overseeing all activities and operations of the Library.  This position works closely with the Library Board, staff, library auxiliary groups, and external stakeholders to establish and ensure that core values are upheld and  excellent library service is  met while achieving the Library’s longer term strategic goals. The Director also provides library advocacy and community outreach through marketing strategies, presentations to community groups on library issues and needs, interaction with the Friends of the Library and Foundation, and participation in community and professional activities. In addition to external customers, the Director will continue to focus on building a diverse and inclusive staff welcoming to all. The Director is a role model within the organization and must maintain a positive attitude, an innovative mindset, and open communication and interaction with the staff and community. For details, see Hoboken Public Library Director Position.

Qualifications. Minimum qualifications are an ALA-accredited Master’s in Library Science and a New Jersey Professional Librarian’s Certificate and five years’ library experience, with three years in an administrative/supervisory capacity. The successful candidate will also demonstrate visionary leadership skills; excellent interpersonal and communication skills; the ability to build productive relationships and promote collaborative partnerships through civic engagement; success in promoting library services to the community; and possess comfort and skill in fundraising activities.  The Board will expect a candidate to have a demonstrated passion for the work of libraries; a thorough knowledge of current trends, technologies and “best practices” for library services; and a proven commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace through personal example. Prior reporting to a governing Board, working in an urban library environment,  and experience in a union and civil service environment are preferred.

Compensation. The starting salary range is $135,000 – $155,000 with placement dependent on qualifications. An attractive benefits package is also offered.

For further information, please visit Bradbury Miller Associates. Apply via email with a meaningful cover letter and resume as Word or PDF attachments to Jobeth Bradbury on or before the closing date of April 18, 2021.

posted 3/9/21