LIBRARY DIRECTOR V
07710
Non-Competitive
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS
The work involves responsibility for serving as the head of a county-wide library system serving a population of over 460,000. The incumbent serves as the Director of the Central Library and the City of Syracuse branch libraries. The incumbent reports to the OCPL Board of Trustees and regularly meets with Onondaga County government leadership.
This is an administrative position involving responsibility for all library functions, with a strong focus on innovation, community engagement, and the reinvention of library services to meet the evolving needs of the community. The Director will lead initiatives that promote digital equity, youth empowerment, and the development of community technology centers. General supervision is exercised over the work of other library personnel. Performs related work as required.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES
Evaluates the effectiveness of the library's services in relation to the changing needs of the community, with a focus on digital equity and access for all.
Builds and maintains collaborative partnerships with City and State officials, member libraries and community organizations, including initiatives that empower youth and foster workforce development.
Develops and implements Plans of Service required by the NYS Department of Education, Division of Library Development.
Ensures compliance with the laws, rules and regulations administered by the Division of Library Development, including the Minimum Standards for New York’s public libraries.
Obtains and implements grants necessary to improve library services, including infrastructure investments and partnerships with community organizations.
Creates and updates policies for consideration by the OCPL Board of Trustees and administers all Board-approved polices.
Develops and implements plans to improve technology and customer service to increase efficiency and effectiveness.
Submits the operating budget to the library board and the County Executive for approval.
Obtains approvals from the Onondaga County Legislature for all capital projects and operating revenues and expenses.
Directs and supervises the expenditures of library funds.
Recommends appointments, transfers, promotions, and dismissals in accordance with Civil Service, County and Union contract rules and regulations.
Recommends and administers library materials purchasing policies.
Conducts staff meetings.
Stays informed of developments in the profession.
Attends professional meetings and those related to NYS libraries, including those held by the New York State Library, the New York State Library Association, and the Public Library System Directors Organization.
Supervises the maintenance of buildings and grounds.
Recommends repairs, alterations and new construction utilizing the operating budget, capital projects and grants.
Recommends and administers public relations programs that build community partnerships, especially for underserved populations.
Represents the library at community group meetings.
Serves as a member of the Board of Trustees on mandated Boards.
Comprehensive knowledge of library administrative practices.
Thorough knowledge of the principles of librarianship.
Thorough knowledge of library technology and its role in promoting digital equity.
Ability to work within a complex organizational structure.
Ability to carry out library policies.
Ability to plan and implement budgets.
Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate the work of others.
Ability to evaluate situations and determine appropriate actions.
Ability to engage and communicate effectively with the diverse communities and organizations within Onondaga County, with an emphasis on building community partnerships.
Ability to participate effectively in the cultural and intellectual activities of the community.
Ability to express oneself clearly and concisely both orally and in writing.
Initiative in making constructive suggestions for improvements in services and collections.
SPECIAL NECESSARY REQUIREMENT:
Eligibility for a New York State public librarian’s professional certificate at time of application for appointment; possession of the certificate at time of appointment.
Revised 10/2024