Position: The Executive Director is appointed by and reports to the MLC Board of Commissioners. The Executive Director is responsible for statewide library development; directing and guiding an agency staff of 49; and administering an annual budget of $14 million.
The MLC Board of Commissioners seeks a leader to strengthen and enhance libraries and information resources for all Mississippians. The ideal candidate is a library advocate, who is an effective communicator with strong relationship building skills. We are looking for a skilled strategic thinker to provide visionary, innovative and collaborative leadership for the agency and for Mississippi libraries. We are looking for a director who excels in nurturing an organizational culture that values customer service, teamwork, diversity, creativity and accountability.
Salary: The position offers an excellent benefits package and salary commensurate with the candidate’s experience. Minimum starting salary is $90,000.
Deadline: The 1st review date is July 15, 2013. To receive consideration, complete application materials should be submitted by this date, but the search committee will continue to accept applications until the position is filled.
Application Procedure: To be considered, please submit a letter of interest, resume, and current salary/salary requirements. In addition, please provide contact information for a minimum of three references to: Mrs. Celia Fisher, Chair of the Search Committee, 109 West Monroe Avenue, Okolona, MS 38860. Phone 662 315-1365; email celiacfisher@bellsouth.net
In your resume, please address how you meet each minimum and preferred qualification, or your application cannot be fully evaluated for the position of Executive Director of the Mississippi Library Commission
Minimum Qualifications
- Master’s degree in library science from a program accredited by the American Library Association.
- At least two years of experience as an administrative librarian or as the director of a state or public library.
Preferred Qualifications
- Ten years of experience in a progressive administrative position in a state library agency or public library
- Demonstrated leadership working in the library community
- Demonstrated ability to work successfully with legislative and/or governmental bodies
- Knowledge and understanding of the legislative process in Mississippi, specifically concerning appropriating funds, committee hearings, and the legislative leadership in the Mississippi House of Representatives and Senate
- knowledge and understanding of Mississippi’s Executive Branch of government, specifically concerning appointments, agencies, and the Mississippi Library Commission’s relationship with local government and public library systems
- Demonstrated ability to speak persuasively before groups and to provide information and testimony to elected and appointed officials
- Demonstrated ability to build positive relationships with stakeholders and forge effective coalitions with other organizations and institutions
- Record of successful experience in administration, including budgeting and financial management, personnel, planning and policy development
- Knowledge and understanding of current issues and trends in libraries
- Knowledge of and skill in the use of current technology
Other Requirements:
If you are selected for an interview, you will be contacted by the Chair of the Search Committee after July 23, 2013. Applicants must be available for an in-person interview with the Search Committee, which will include making a formal oral presentation. The first set of interviews will be scheduled for Tuesday, August 6, 2013. State government does not allow reimbursement for travel expenses for candidate interviews.
The applicant selected for the position of Executive Director will have to complete a Mississippi State Personnel Board printed application and submit complete certified undergraduate college and graduate school transcripts.
The Mississippi Library Commission is an equal opportunity employer and assures equal employment opportunities to all persons regardless of race, color, creed, sex, religion, national origin, age, physical handicap, disability, or political affiliation. The Mississippi Library Commission is committed to complying with all applicable laws affording equal employment opportunities to individuals.
Posted: May 23rd, 2013
Greetings:
At the MLA Board Meeting on May 17th, the slate of newly elected officers was presented and accepted. They are as follows:
VP/President Elect: Patsy Brewer
ALA Councilor: Ellen Ruffin
Congratulations to each of these members who have accepted the responsibilities of these positions. I also would like to thank those who also ran for the offices.
Remember that our organization will only be as good as those who accept the opportunity to serve our state.
Posted: May 22nd, 2013
The Mississippi State University (MSU) Libraries seek applications for the tenure‐track
position of Assistant Professor (Instructional Services Librarian), a member of a team
responsible for instructing library users in a highly electronic environment. The position
reports to the Coordinator of Library Instructional Services. MSU Libraries are a
member of ASERL, LYRASIS, CNI, EDUCAUSE and SPARC and was a leader in establishing
the statewide MAGNOLIA consortium for online databases. The MSU Libraries support a
technologically advanced library program commensurate with the University’s research
environment. Additional information about the MSU Libraries can be found at
http://library.msstate.edu/.
DUTIES: Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
* Participates on a team of librarians that identifies the instructional needs of all
library users, plans and executes instruction activities and promotes the
progressive development of information competencies and research skills;
* Develops and presents workshops for library users, library staff, university
faculty and university constituencies;
* Shares responsibility for planning, developing, maintaining and assessing
instructional and promotional materials in all media;
* Develops web‐based instructional materials including online tutorials and
instruction modules;
* Works with academic departments to provide instructional support to oncampus
and distance education classes;
* May serve as a liaison to one or more academic departments;
* May be assigned some hours on the reference desk with occasional weekend
hours;
* The successful applicant will be expected to fulfill research and service
responsibilities for promotion and/or tenure.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required:
* Master’s degree from an ALA‐accredited program;
* Understanding of traditional, current and emerging electronic and print
information resources and technologies;
* Ability to work positively, productively, congenially with diverse constituencies
and colleagues;
* Recent experience with library instruction, print/electronic library resources and
multi‐media presentations.
Preferred:
* Additional graduate degree;
* Instructional design/development/evaluation experience;
* Instructional technology skills;
* Recent reference experience;
* Customary web authoring and development skills;
* Experience in distance learning and/or library outreach services.
BENEFITS: Faculty rank, privileges and responsibilities; 12‐month appointment,
excellent benefits package
SALARY: $43,000 ‐ $45,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
To apply, submit a letter of application, vitae and the names, addresses, phone numbers
and email addresses of three references who can address the suitability of the
candidate for the responsibilities above to: Ms. Debra Fairbrother, Administrative
Assistant to the Dean, Mississippi State University Libraries, P.O. Box 5408, Mississippi
State, MS 39762. You must also submit the Personal Data Information Form for this
position online at jobs.msstate.edu. Applications accepted until a suitable applicant is
found. For additional information on the Mississippi State University community, see
the University’s website at http://www.msstate.edu. Mississippi State University is an
EEO/AA employer.
Posted: May 20th, 2013
MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF ARCHIVES & HISTORY
Archives and Records Services Division
The Mississippi Department of Archives and History (MDAH) continues to recruit candidate for a three-year position in Local Government Records Office, of the Government Records Section, in the Archives and Records Services Division.
Historic Resources Specialist II, Time-Limited Position, Local Government Records Office
Starting annual salary: $ 32,400 plus benefits
Deadline for receiving applications: Friday, March 8, 2013
To apply for this position online, please go to the Mississippi State Personnel Board at www.mspb.ms.gov and submit an e-application. If you need more information about the application process please contact
601/576-6866.
The primary responsibilities of the incumbent will be:
(1) to provide onsite consultations and develop guidelines for local governments on
records management, continuity of operations, and disaster preparedness/response; and
(2) working with the Local Government Records officer, help increase the active participation among local
governments in the records management program. These goals will be accomplished through
presentations, meetings, and outreach activities.
As a member of the Government Records section, the incumbent may work on projects individually or
as part of a team.
Education and experience must meet one of the following criteria:
• A Master’s Degree from an accredited four-year college or university in history, library science,
or a related field.
• A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four-year college or university in history, library
science, or a related field; and one (1) year of experience related to the above-described
duties.
Preferred qualifications include the following: Demonstrated familiarity with current records
management and archival theory, methods, and practice; knowledge of Word, Excel, and SQL;
experience with municipal and county records management; knowledge of Mississippi history;
excellent time management, and written and oral communication skills; demonstrated organizational
and analytical abilities; ability to carry out detail-oriented projects; a willingness to work with dirty
records; the ability to lift and carry boxes weighing up to 40 pounds; the ability to work effectively both
independently and as a team member. Overnight travel and a valid driver’s license will be
required.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Established in 1996, the Local Government Records Office has statutory authority over records at the local level. The
office is responsible for program promotion, assistance, training, creation of records control schedules, and guidance to
local officials regarding records management. The Mississippi Department of Archives and History acquires, preserves,
and provides access to the archival resources of Mississippi. Its non-circulating collection is the largest publicly
accessible collection of print, manuscript, and digital material relating to the state. The Archives is located in the William F.
Winter Archives and History Building, in Jackson. For more information on Department activities, go to
http://archives3.mdah.state.ms.us/ MDAH is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Posted: May 14th, 2013
The Jackson/Hinds Library System (JHLS), Jackson, MS, the largest system in the state of Mississippi, invites applications for the position of Executive Director. JHLS serves a population of 245,000 with a 45,000 sq. ft. main library and 14 full-service branches; FY ’13 operating budget of 4.2 million; annual circulation of 500,000; a staff of 70 FTE. A 14-member Administrative Board appointed by the city and county officials governs JHLS. Jackson is the capital of the state of Mississippi. Jackson and Hinds County are home to four universities, two colleges, a community college, and the University of Mississippi Medical School—all of which affect the reading public. The website is located at www.jhlibrary.com.
Qualifications:
ALA-accredited MSL required, with additional degree or course work in management preferred; seven years of progressively responsible professional public library experience, five of which include administrative or supervisory responsibilities; demonstrated ability to work with public officials, board members, staff, community leaders, and the public; effective management and leadership ability; successful record in budgetary planning; experience in library design and maintenance; knowledge of current library technology and collection development; expertise in strategic planning; experience or knowledge of fundraising campaigns; skill in public relations, speaking and writing.
Compensation Package:
Full benefits package; starting salary of $65,000–$75,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. JHLS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Applications in the form of a cover letter, resume, and three references should be addressed to:
Harriet Kuykendall, Chair
JHLS Search Committee
4619 Culleywood Road
Jackson, MS 39211
Or to:
hkuykendall1@comcast.net in PDF form
Application deadline: August 1, 2013
Posted: May 14th, 2013
Be a vital contributor to a vital area–the Central Gateway to the Arkansas Ozarks! The Board of Trustees of The Public Libraries of Faulkner & Van Buren Counties (headquartered in Conway, AR) seeks an innovative, collaborative, and enthusiastic leader to serve as its next Library Director. The new Director will lead a system of eight public libraries serving two counties with a combined population of 133,000. The System, governed by a ten-member regional library board with equal representation from each county, circulates 446,696 items annually, and has a $1.7 million budget and a staff of twenty-five (25) FTE .
This stunning Central Arkansas area has something for everyone. Located 30 miles from Little Rock, Conway, “The City of Colleges,” is the home of two colleges, one university and a premier medical center. In addition to its natural beauty and many recreational outdoor amenities (Lake Conway hosts the annual Arkansas Masters sport fishing tournament), the region offers the Conway Symphony Orchestra and the Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre. One of its largest annual events, Toad Suck Daze, is a three-day community festival supporting college scholarships for local students. The region is one of the fastest-growing areas in Arkansas and provides an outstanding quality of life combined with a low cost of living. For more information on the Library System and the region, please visit FCL Links.
Responsibilities: Major responsibilities include providing strategic direction to member libraries for services, collections, and technologies; working with the Board to formulate and implement sound library policy; working collaboratively with member libraries as the liaison to the local communities; participating in state library-related activities; and supervising and working effectively with system and member library staff. For the complete job description, see FCL Director.
Qualifications: Minimum qualifications include a Master’s Degree in Library Science from an ALA–accredited school and a minimum of five years’ progressively responsible public library or equivalent experience. Desirable abilities include proven public library leadership with a minimum of four years of public library management experience; strategic thinking and planning; ability to work well with staff, local and state officials, and community stakeholders; an understanding of emerging library technologies including social media; and experience reporting to a governing board. The successful candidate will reside in Faulkner County.
Compensation: The hiring salary range is $55,000-65,000 (placement being dependent on experience and qualifications) with an attractive benefits package.
For further information contact Bradbury Associates/Gossage Sager Associates via email or telephone. To start the application process, send a meaningful cover letter and your resumé as Word or pdf attachments via email to Dan Bradbury or Jobeth Bradbury on or before the closing date—June 30, 2013.
Posted: May 10th, 2013
Assume a vital leadership role and assist the 48 public libraries in this southern region of New York State achieve new levels of service and effective resource sharing! The Board of Trustees of the Southern Tier Library System (headquartered in Painted Post, NY) seeks a visionary library leader—responsive to member and community needs and skilled in focusing the efforts of a team of talented professionals—as its next Executive Director. STLS is a regional consortium of public libraries in Allegany, Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben and Yates counties–working in partnership with member libraries to enable the System’s 256,291 residents to have access to excellent library services. With a $1.5 million annual budget, 27 system employees (18.4 FTEs) and the recently formed Foundation for Southern Tier Libraries, STLS is a member-focused organization with a mission to build on the strengths of its diverse members through cooperative action and provide superior service to its member libraries and their constituents.
The Southern Tier Region offers a unique blend in both its geography and local economy. Rolling hills, rivers, easy access to the Finger Lakes Region, open spaces, a strategic location and an advanced highway infrastructure make it attractive to a wide range of recreational activities, businesses and industries, including the Fortune 500 Company, Corning Inc., located in Steuben County. Agriculture remains a major component of the economy with dairy, vegetables orchard fruit and wine grapes as the leading products. Elmira is the largest metropolitan area (91,000+ in Chemung County), but the abundance of small cities and extensive rural areas add interest and unique flavor to the region’s diversity. The region offers good schools, cultural and educational amenities, recreational opportunities, an educated workforce and one of the lowest costs of living in the nation—making it a great place to live and thrive! For additional details on STLS, the region and its communities, see STLS Links.
Responsibilities. The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of the Library System, and under the general direction of the 15-member Board of Trustees, has overall responsibility for general administration of System operations. The Executive Director supervises Department Heads, the Youth Services Consultant and administrative staff—and works with the Board, staff, member libraries, and major stakeholders to establish the strategic vision for the System aligning its mission, with member library and community needs and priorities. This is complex executive work planning, directing, managing and overseeing the activities and operations of the System. The Executive Director has wide latitude for independent judgment, decision and action. See the Executive Director’s position description for additional details.
Qualifications. An ALA-accredited Master’s Degree in Library Science; the ability to obtain and retain a New York State Public Librarian Certificate 1; and a minimum of eight years of experience in public libraries or public library systems, including three years of which must have been in an administrative capacity. Essential attributes and skills include: vision, creativity, energy and enthusiasm; superior written and oral communications skills; demonstrated success in effectively promoting library services; thorough knowledge of library technology innovations and efficiencies; political acumen; collaborative and consensus-building skills; experience in recruiting, mentoring, evaluating and retaining an excellent staff; and a thorough knowledge of current trends and “best practices” for library and system services. Eight years of post-MLS library experience and proven success working effectively as a director with a policy-making board are highly desirable.
Compensation. The hiring salary range is $80,000-100,000 (with placement being dependent on experience and qualifications) with an attractive benefits package.
For further information contact Bradbury Associates/Gossage Sager Associates via email or telephone. To start the application process, send a meaningful cover letter and your resume as Word or pdf attachments via email to Dan Bradbury or Jobeth Bradbury on or before the closing date—June 23, 2013.
Posted: May 8th, 2013
Plans are well underway for the 2013 MLA Annual Conference, “Mississippi Libraries: Making Community Work!” Mark your calendars for October 14th – 18th 2013 at the IP Casino in lovely Biloxi, Mississippi.
Program planning forms and conference information can be found on the conference website. We are looking for proposals for speakers and posters from all corners–committees, sections, individuals, etc. We encourage you to share your ideas with all of us in Biloxi!
You find more information on hotel arrangements and the online form for proposals at http://library.msstate.edu/mla-annual/. The due date for proposals is May 9th.
Posted: April 23rd, 2013
Mississippi State University Libraries has been ranked as number one in the SEC and number 24 across the nation in an article titled “100 Most Social Media Friendly College & University Libraries for 2013.” The article, published on April 4, 2013 by Library Science List, evaluated 442 college and university libraries across the nation, based on their level of activity on various social media platforms . MSU Libraries scored 82.2 out of a possible 100 points. Platforms evaluated include Twitter, Facebook, Flickr, Pinterest, YouTube, and Google Plus.
Social Media, Extension, Ag & Life Sciences Librarian at MSU Amanda Clay Powers says that “The MSU Libraries have been a leader on campus in social media and emerging technologies since we embraced the idea in summer 2006. Starting with our first “Library 2.0” Summit in summer 2007, we began developing the in-house expertise to meet the changing needs of the University. We now have deep expertise in house for teaching, research, outreach and service in the area of social media. We have kept up as the field has grown and changed and matured over time.”
Follow us on Twitter @msu_libraries or find us on Facebook at http://facebook.com/msulibrary. You can find all of our social media on the library’s home page (mobile or web).
For more information, please visit librarysciencelist.com or follow the link to their article: http://librarysciencelist.com/100-most-social-media-friendly-college-university-libraries/
Submitted by
Angela M. Patton
Library Associate
Mississippi State University Libraries
Posted: April 23rd, 2013
Registration is now open for the 9th Annual Circulation Conference held on Thursday, June 13, 2013 from 8am to 4:30pm in the Barret Library at Rhodes College in Memphis, TN.
This conference is an inexpensive opportunity for circulation personnel from academic, public, special, and school libraries to get together to share their experiences, learn new tips and tricks, and network. MLA members, especially those only a few hours away from Memphis, are encouraged to attend.
Visit the conference website for more information and for registration forms at: https://sites.google.com/site/circulationconference/
To ensure an appropriate headcount, please submit the registration form and registration fee ($20) to Maya Berry by Friday, May 24th. Feel free to contact her at mberry2@cbu.edu if you need additional information.
Posted: April 22nd, 2013
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