Executive Director

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR – ILLINOIS HEARTLAND LIBRARY SYSTEM

Become a vital part of the future—the future of library service in the Illinois heartland!  The Board of Directors of the newly formed Illinois Heartland Library System (IHLS) seeks an experienced and energetic leader to help take its multi-type member libraries to new levels of effectiveness—developing partnerships and sharing resources in pursuit of excellent service.

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Illinois Heartland Library System (http://www.illinoisheartland.org/) was formed by the merger of Lewis and Clark, Lincoln Trail, Rolling Prairie and Shawnee library systems in April, 2011 under a plan approved by the Illinois State Library. The new System covers 44,322 square miles with 594 member libraries—38 Academic, 231 Public, 260 School and 65 Special—located throughout central and southern Illinois.  With a projected $18 million annual budget and 70-75 system employees, IHLS is a membership-driven organization with a vision to build on the strengths of its diverse members to create a future where all libraries and information partners collaborate to provide accessible and innovative services throughout the 58-county area.  For additional details on the region and its libraries see www.gossagesager.com/IHLSlinks.htm.

Responsibilities.  As chief administrative officer, the System Executive Director reports to a 15-member Board composed of representatives from member libraries and has overall responsibility for implementing the policies and programs of the System and directing and leading all operations and activities.  Responsibilities include: organizing and administering the System’s resources to carry out its mission, vision, and strategic goals; providing effective leadership in implementing long-range planning; developing and maintaining an effective communication program; strengthening current funding sources, seeking additional revenue sources and overseeing sound financial practices; developing and maintaining effective training, consulting and continuing education programs; maintaining effective relationships with member libraries and other organizations—both public and private—such as the Illinois State Library, professional library organizations, state and federal legislators;  and representing IHLS’s interests by participating in library activities at the state and national levels.  The detailed job description can be found at www.gossagesager.com/IHLSjd.pdf.

Qualifications.  A Masters Degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited library program; and a minimum of eight  (8) years of progressively responsible library experience, four (4) years of which must have been in an administrative capacity.  Desired attributes, skills and abilities include: good listening skills, responsive to the needs and concerns of staff, member libraries, and communities; experience in developing an annual budget proposal linked to Board policies and priorities; proven success working with a state funding structure; vision;  an openness  to creative and innovative solutions; and a dedication to library technology innovations and efficiencies.  Experience reporting to a governing board, experience as a system director, knowledge of Illinois library systems structure, function, and relationship to the Illinois State Library are highly desirable.

Compensation. The starting salary range is $90,000-$125,000 (dependent upon experience and qualifications) with a competitive benefits package.

For further information, contact Dan or Jobeth Bradbury at Bradbury Associates/Gossage Sager Associates. Apply via email with a meaningful cover letter and resume as Word or pdf attachments to Dan Bradbury, danbradbury@gossagesager.com or Jobeth Bradbury, jobethbradbury@gossagesager.com. The position closes July 5, 2011.