The Board of Trustees of the South Mississippi Regional Library (SMRL) seeks a forward-focused and highly motivated individual to serve as its next Library Director. The Library Director administers a two-county library system in South Mississippi with a total budget of just under $500 thousand with nine full-time employees and 5 part-time employees. With locations headquartered in Columbia (Marion County) and branches located in Prentiss and Bassfield (Jefferson Davis County), the library system provides materials and services to all ages. The library system receives funding from state, federal, and local government agencies as well as from Friends of the Library. The mission of the South Mississippi Library System is to inspire, encourage, and promote intellectual advancement in our communities by providing access to information in a welcoming environment. Columbia is the county seat of Marion County, which has a population of 24,378. Prentiss is the county seat for Jefferson Davis County, which has a population of 11,134. Marion County offers many cultural and recreational activities for its communities and the surrounding area. The small, charming city of Columbia is located 75 miles from Jackson, 32 miles from Hattiesburg and the University of Southern Mississippi, and 91 miles from New Orleans.
Requirements: An applicant should possess a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science from a college or university that is preferably ALA accredited. However, applicants currently pursuing that degree may still be considered. Applicants must possess excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, as well as a broad knowledge of literature and current culture. At least three years of library experience is preferred. Applicants should have administrative experience and a working knowledge of bookkeeping and personnel administration.
Salary and Benefits: Salary range is $40,000-$45,000. Full state benefit package includes state health insurance, paid state-approved holidays throughout the year, paid sick and vacation leave, and state retirement.
SMRL is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state or local laws.
This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits training and apprenticeship. SMRL makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.
Responsibilities: The Library Director administers, develops, and coordinates the work of the library system and staff in both Marion and Jefferson Davis counties. He or she performs managerial duties related to personnel, budget, collection development, building maintenance, and library operations and services in conformity with the policies established by the SMRL Board of Trustees. Also, the Library Director establishes goals that align with the library system’s mission and objectives to increase community participation in library activities and increase visibility and support for the libraries in both media, community groups, Friends’ organizations, and the public. The Library Director also embraces and implements technology. The above list is not intended to be an inclusive list of responsibilities. A full job description is available at www.smrl.lib.ms.us
To Apply: Completed application and resume may be mailed, faxed, or emailed to the Board of Trustees. Application may be found at www.smrl.lib.ms.us
Contact: Mrs. Joan Bass, SMRL Board of Trustees
900 Broad Street
Columbia, MS 39429
Phone: 601-765-5539
Fax: 601-690-0864
Smrltrustees24@gmail.com
Posting:
Open Date: January 26, 2024
Close Date: Until filled
Application
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