Library Director - Rye Free Reading Room, Rye, New York

Rye Free Reading Room – 125 years (and counting) of distinguished service to the community!  The Board of Trustees of Rye Free Reading Room (founded in 1884) seeks an energetic, enthusiastic and experienced leader to continue its commitment to quality public library service for the Rye community.  The Director will work closely with the 18-member Board of Directors, a 45-member Auxiliary Board, staff and local stakeholders to develop and articulate its vision for library service, design and implement strategic initiatives, and administer the service program, facility and space planning, and fundraising and resource development.  See http://www.gossagesager.com/Jobdesc2010.doc for the complete job description. As an association library, the Rye Free Reading Room is funded by the City of Rye and private donations, with the Board actively investigating options for sustainable funding.

Rye Free Reading Room has a collection of 90,000 items housed in the main library and a small branch and circulates over 225,000 items annually. With a staff of 17 FTE and a budget of $1.5 million, the library provides exceptional customer service and its programs are consistently among the most heavily attended in Westchester County—attendance last year pushed over 36,000 with best-selling authors and a wide-selection of children’s programs.  A recent expansion of the landmark building on Rye’s Village Green and ongoing capital projects, including a renovated technology center, help ensure the facilities are well-positioned for continued growth. 

Rye, a suburban community in Westchester County, is home to 15,000 residents.  Located on Long Island Sound, Rye enjoys a strong sense of community, with close proximity to New York City and regional attractions in the Tri-State area.  For additional information on the Library, the City and the area see http://www.gossagesager.com/Ryelinks.htm.

Minimum qualifications include an MLS from an ALA accredited institution and at least five years of progressively responsible experience, including at least two years administrative experience in a public library.  The successful candidate must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, demonstrated leadership ability and the ability to work collaboratively with Board, staff, elected officials and community groups. In addition, the successful candidate must be able to articulate a vision of library services in the 21st century. Successful experience with fundraising, building projects and working in a union environment is highly desirable. 

Compensation: The starting salary range is $90,000-$106,000 (dependent on experience and qualifications) with an excellent benefits package.

For further information, contact Jobeth Bradbury, jobethbradbury@gossagesager.com, at Bradbury Associates/Gossage Sager Associates. 

Apply via email to either Dan Bradbury or Jobeth Bradbury, danbradbury@gossagesager.com, jobethbradbury@gossagesager.com, with a meaningful cover letter and resume as Word attachments.  The position closes October 3, 2010.