Library Director, Kimball Library (Atkinson, NH)

Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners; Atkinson (NH); On-site; USD 78,000 - 106,000; Full time

Job summary

Kimball Library in Atkinson, NH seeks an experienced Library Director to lead operations, staff, and programs for a community-focused public library. The director will shape services, manage resources, and ensure alignment with town needs while advocating for library value.

Requirements include an MLS, 7–10 years in senior management, and a proven track record in leadership, finance, and community engagement. Salary up to $92,000 plus competitive benefits and a full-time exempt role.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in library science from an ALA accredited school.
• 7–10 years of progressive senior management experience.
• Collaborative leader with a patron-focused service mindset.

Responsibilities

• Directs all aspects of library operations to deliver high-quality, efficient service.
• Develops and manages the annual municipal budget and ensures fiscal stewardship.
• Represents the library in town government and community partnerships.
• Oversees staff recruitment, training, evaluation, and professional development.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Collaboration

Strategic thinking

Education

MLS/Masters

Job description

Library Director, Kimball Library (Atkinson, NH)

Kimball Library Director

Our current director retired recently after a distinguished 35-year career in public libraries. The Kimball Library Board of Trustees is accepting applications for the position of Library Director.

Beautiful, modern, and beloved, the Kimball Library is situated near Dow Common along with other municipal facilities. Atkinson, a scenic community of stone walls, open spaces, and approximately 7,300 residents, is located on the Massachusetts border. Retaining its rural character while embracing modern public services, it is a town that values community, connection, and involvement and boasts convenient access to the Boston area, the coast, and points north.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced, innovative, and community-oriented leader. The Director manages all phases of library operations, ensuring it continues to thrive as the informational and civic heart of Atkinson. Last year, more than 45,000 people visited the Kimball Library!

Compensation and Benefits

Status: Full time

Salary: Based on commensurate experience up to $92,000 annually with competitive benefits based on qualifications and experience

Insurance: Health, life, and short-term disability

Pension: New Hampshire Retirement System

About the Library

In addition to the director, there are currently 3 full-time staff, 8 part-time staff, and volunteers. The Library, open 55 hours a week over 6 days, is governed by an elected board of trustees, and benefits from an active Friends group.

Position Title: Director

Accountability: Reports to the Library Board of Trustees

Status: Full-Time; Exempt

Position Overview

The Library Director is the chief executive of the Kimball Library. The role combines leadership, management, and vision to ensure the Library provides outstanding service to the community. The Director oversees daily operations, manages staff and resources, coordinates the development and maintenance of all collections, and ensures that the library remains responsive to the evolving needs of the community. The Director reports to the Board of Trustees.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Administration

• Directs all aspects of library operations to deliver high-quality, efficient service.
• Regularly evaluates library policies, services, and programs in light of trends in librarianship and community needs.
• Develops, presents and manages the annual municipal budget.
• Maintains current knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations affecting public libraries.
• Monitors relevant national, regional, and local trends, including technology, affecting the library and update the staff and the Board as needed.
• Prepares all statistical and narrative reports as required, including the annual town, state and federal reports, and a monthly report for the Library Board of Trustees.

Community Engagement

• Builds strong partnerships with the Friends of the Library, schools, local government, cultural organizations, and community groups.
• Acts as the public face of the Library, advocating for its role as a center for learning, enjoyment, creativity, and civic engagement.
• Represents the Library at meetings of Town Department Heads, Selectboard, Budget Committee, and others when necessary or invited.

Staff & Human Resources

• Fosters a collaborative, communicative, and positive workplace.
• Recruit, hire, train, and evaluate staff, recommending new hires to the Board for approval.
• Delegates, assigns and adjusts duties to ensure effective operations.
• Invests in professional growth through ongoing training and development opportunities.
• Advocates for competitive wages and benefits.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have earned a master's degree in library science from an ALA accredited school, have 7-10 years of progressive positions in senior management, be a collaborative leader with a patron-driven commitment to outstanding library service and possess excellent communication skills. In addition, a thorough understanding of the operations and functions of public libraries, proven expertise in selection, managing collections, personnel, facilities, and developing budgets are required. The successful candidate will be a creative, energetic individual with a growth mindset and clear vision of the current and future value of the public library in our community. For a complete job description, go to http://www.kimballlibrary.com

Full/Part Time

Full Time

Education

MLS/Masters

Salary

$92,000.00/year

Salary Notes

Salary based on experience and qualifications

Closing Date

10/16/2026

Posted

2026-09-10| Quick link to this job