Library Director- Des Moines (IA) Public Library

One of Kiplinger’s Best Cities of 2010 needs a new Library Director! The Board of Trustees of the Des Moines (IA) Public Library—serving a city population of nearly 200,000 (1.62 million annual circulation) with six facilities including a 110,000 sq. ft. central library and five branches—seeks an innovative and creative library director to create and implement visionary library services and programs as a collaborative, regional partner. As Iowa's capital city, Des Moines is a hub of government action, business activity, arts and cultural affairs—with much of the activity focused on the reinvigorated downtown area where the central library is a key asset. The area also boasts some of the nation's best schools, superb public services, and friendly, caring neighborhoods. With a dedicated staff (73 FTE) and Library Board, a $7.2 million annual budget, and a successful Library Foundation—all of the pieces are in place to take the Library to the next level of services and programs designed to support community needs.

Responsibilities. The Director of the Des Moines Public Library reports to a five-member Library Board of Trustees—appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by City Council—and partners with city officials to achieve the Library’s mission, goals and objectives within the context of community needs and priorities. Overall responsibilities include: fostering effective internal and external communications with Community, City officials, the Library Board, the Library Foundation, and Library staff; proposing recommendations and implementing Board policies and operating procedures reflecting the reality of the current economic environment; developing the Library staff as a strong team through leadership, mentoring and providing staff development opportunities; providing sound fiscal management while seeking additional revenue sources—including working with the Library Foundation; and exploring and developing collaborative relationships with a variety of local, regional and statewide organizations and agencies. Additional information on the Library, City and position can be found at www.gossagesager.com/dmpllinks.htm

Minimum Qualifications. A master’s degree in library science from an ALA-accredited program and a minimum of eight years of progressively responsible experience in a multi-branch library and at least five years of executive level experience as director of a library or deputy, assistant, or associate director of a comparable or larger system. Essential attributes include energy and enthusiasm; personal integrity and excellent interpersonal skills; thorough knowledge of financial management; collaboration and consensus-building skills; sensitivity, flexibility, and creativity; and a solid understanding of philosophy, trends and “best practices” in the library and information technology fields. Experience reporting to a governing Board of Trustees and working in a union environment is highly desirable.

Compensation. Starting salary range of $110,000-130,000 (negotiable, dependent upon experience and qualifications) with an excellent fringe benefits package.

For further information, contact Gossage Sager Associates/Bradbury Associates via email or call 816-531-2468. Apply via email with a meaningful cover letter and your resume as Word attachments to DanBradbury@gossagesager.com or JobethBradbury@gossagesager.com. The position closes August 29, 2010.

DES MOINES PUBLIC LIBRARY—the bridge to a world of information and ideas for personal enjoyment and community growth—IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER