Library Director – Winter Park (FL) Public Library

Winter Park Public Library Board of Directors seeks an energetic new library leader to create a shared vision for library service and enhance the Library’s role in providing information, education, and entertainment tailored to resident needs. Winter Park Public Library, a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization located near the City’s center, provides the highest quality materials, programs and services to the 28,000+ residents living in Winter Park and the surrounding communities. Founded in 1885 with a few dozen titles stored on a local front porch, the Library has continuously evolved based on residents' changing needs. It now provides an array of books and other print and electronic materials, including downloadable materials. Consisting of a single facility (33,000 sq. ft. building) with a $2.7 million budget (two thirds from municipal sources) the Library is ready to build on its success. The new Library Director will work with a committed staff (33 FTEs), an energetic Board and core of volunteers, an established donor group, and a dedicated community. The challenges for the next Director will be to move forward with a new strategic plan, implement library technology innovations and efficiencies, leverage strong community relationships and partnerships to address future building needs (renovation/realignment and/or new construction), and further develop alternative funding streams and build the endowment (now at $4.7 million) to continue an outstanding level of service, programs and growth.

Winter Park, considered by many to be the premier urban village in the sunshine state, has a rich heritage, strong sense of community, vast parks system, diverse economic base, and beautiful lakes. Located just three miles north of Orlando in Orange County, the city is nine-square miles with over 28,000 residents. Winter Park is known for its charm, elegant homes, quaint bricked streets, extensive tree canopy, first-class shopping and dining experiences, world-class museums and Rollins College—the oldest private college in Florida. For additional details on the Library, the City and the community see Winter Park Links.

Responsibilities.  The Library Director is appointed by and reports to a 25-member Library Board of Trustees and works with the Board, staff, City elected and appointed officials and other major stakeholders to establish the strategic vision and practical direction for the Library. The Director carries out the objectives and policies of the Winter Park Library Association, Inc. as stated in the Association’s by-laws, the long range plan, and other documents.  The Library Director is also responsible for the overall administration and day-to-day operation of the Library, providing support for the Board of Trustees in their activities, and is responsible for every phase of library operations including programs, collections and services, personnel, technology, public relations and outreach, marketing, buildings, grounds, equipment, budget, donor relations, and fundraising.  See WPPL Director document for additional illustrative duties.

Qualifications. A master’s degree in library science from an ALA accredited program and a minimum of eight years of public library experience, including at least four years of experience in an administrative capacity. Essential attributes and skills include: vision, creativity, energy and enthusiasm; superior written and oral communications skills; a good listener; demonstrated success in promoting library services to the community; political acumen in working with the Mayor and City administration; experience and success with fund-raising and development; experience in recruiting, mentoring, evaluating and continuing professional development for an excellent staff; and a thorough knowledge of current technology, trends and “best practices” for library service.  An advanced degree in business, public administration or non-profit administration and proven success working effectively with a governing board are preferred qualifications. Any combination of education and experience that demonstrates the ability to successfully meet the requirements of the position may be considered. See WPPL Director document for ideal experience and qualifications.

Compensation.  The position offers a hiring salary range of $88,360-101,610 (placement dependent upon experience and qualifications) and an attractive benefits package.

For further information, contact Bradbury Associates/Gossage Sager Associates via email or phone.  Apply via email with a meaningful cover letter and your resume as Word or pdf attachments to DanBradbury@gossagesager.com or JobethBradbury@gossagesager.com.  The position closes December 30, 2012.