Library Director - Deschutes (OR) Public Library

A dynamic leader is sought as director for this progressive Central Oregon (Bend) library district. Lead efforts to build upon the solid foundation of a top library program. Work with a team that is committed to a never-ending quest for excellence. Many of the tools are already in place.

DPL is an independent library district with a permanent tax rate that is exclusively dedicated to public library services. The library is governed by an elected library board that focuses upon outcomes and looks to the director and management team to devise creative implementation strategies. The management team is confident and dynamic and embraces new approaches and solutions.

The challenges are exciting. Develop innovative service strategies to respond to the fastest growing population in Oregon. Devise alternative service strategies using the latest technologies. Provide leadership in local areas and in the broader state and national library communities. The possibilities are endless.

The Deschutes Public Library District is a library system serving the 165,000 residents of Deschutes County in Central Oregon. Governed by a five-member, elected Board of Directors, the Library staff (currently 85 FTEs) with a budget of $9.3 million operates five branches and a bookmobile serving an increasingly diverse area and circulating 1.9 million in 2006-07. Deschutes County is one of the most beautiful and most desirable counties in the United States—growing by 53% from 1995 to 2005.

The successful candidate must have excellent communication skills that inspire and motivate. Candidate must have exemplary skills that can develop and implement a shared vision of innovative library service for the District. Candidate must be adept at building and maintaining effective relationships with the library board to achieve desired results; skills in policy governance are key success factors. Also essential are developing and maintaining collaborative working relationships with staff and with community leaders throughout Deschutes County. Key skills include: strategic planning, budget preparation, designing and managing change, facilities and space design, library technology, grant writing, and working with library foundations. Additional information on the Deschutes Public Library District and the community can be found at: www.gossagesager.com/Deschuteslinks.htm

Minimum requirements: an MLS from an ALA-accredited program; five years of progressively responsible public library experience in a multi-branch system and a minimum of three years of executive level administrative experience. Experience working effectively with a governing Board, fiscal management, excellent communication skills, conflict resolution skills, and coaching skills preferred. Hiring salary range $100,000-$120,000 with a competitive benefits package.

For further information: Contact Dan Bradbury, Gossage Sager Associates, danbradbury@gossagesager.com or 816-531-2468. This opportunity will close September 30, 2008. To apply, please send a cover letter and current resume as attachments via email to: danbradbury@gossagesager.com.