Library Director

Committed to Excellence.  The City of University Park seeks an energetic, enthusiastic and capable library leader to extend its commitment to excellence for library service in this unique Texas community.  Assume the leadership role as the Library (http://www.uplibrary.org/universitypark/) transitions from being a not-for-profit Library (established in 2001) operated by the Friends of the Library to a newly formed municipal department—and prepares to move into 15,000 sq. ft. of new space in the Plaza at Preston Center—a new five-story mixed-use facility adjacent to a popular shopping center. 

Responsibilities. Under the general oversight of the City Manager and working with the six-member Library Advisory Board, the Director provides administrative and managerial support to the Library. The Director plans, organizes, directs, evaluates and reviews the Library’s resources, personnel, facilities, services and programs to respond to the needs of the community. With a $600,000 annual budget and an active Friends organization, the new Director and staff (4.5 FTEs) will develop new opportunities for community involvement,  collaboration and support for programs and services. See http://www.gossagesager.com/UPJobdesc.pdf for the complete job description, typical duties and qualifications.

University Park, (http://www.uptexas.org/),  is a predominantly residential community of 23,500 residents located approximately five miles north of downtown Dallas. The City is the home of Southern Methodist University and is also known for its attractive homes, beautiful parks, and numerous churches. The location of University Park in north-central Dallas provides easy access to a broad range of cultural, recreational, shopping, and business activities.  A diverse range of 8,600 homes supports a unique population base.  Seventy-two percent of residents over 25 have college or advanced degrees—making University Park among the most highly-educated cities in the nation—and the city’s students consistently rank among the highest in state testing with 98% of the graduating class typically continuing on to college. The City prides itself on providing prompt and personal attention to requests for services and a secure residential atmosphere. For additional information on the Library, the City and the area see http://www.gossagesager.com/UPlinks.htm.

Minimum qualifications include an MLS from an ALA accredited library school and at least five years of progressively responsible public library experience, including at least three years at an upper management level. Essential skills include: excellent administrative, financial planning, communication, and personnel management skills; ability to speak to diverse groups concerning library affairs; knowledge of current technology and an understanding of its use in providing library service; ability to handle critical incidents and resolve conflicts involving staff, materials, or facilities; ability to participate in meetings and conferences both within and outside of normal working hours; ability to inspire and lead staff; and initiative, awareness and vision in developing library services. Successful prior experience as a public library director or assistant, associate or deputy director is desirable.

Compensation. The starting salary range is $76,716-$91,476 (dependent on experience and qualifications) with an excellent benefits package.

For further information contact Dan Bradbury, danbradbury@gossagesager.com, or Jobeth Bradbury, jobethbradbury@gossagesager.com, at Bradbury Associates/Gossage  Sager Associates.  Apply via email with a meaningful cover letter and current resume as Word or pdf attachments.  This position will close July 29, 2012.