Library Director: Washington County Library System

Misslib; Mississippi; On-site; USD 70,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Washington County Library System in Mississippi seeks a visionary Director to lead seven branches and serve as the chief administrative officer. The role drives strategic leadership, operational excellence, financial stewardship, and partnerships across the county.

The Director reports to the Board of Trustees and oversees staff, programs, facilities, budgets, grants, and compliance, guiding long-term planning and community engagement in Washington County.

Qualifications

• Leadership experience in public library administration
• Strong communication and organizational skills

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for a seven-branch public library system
• Oversee budgets, procurement, and financial controls
• Develop partnerships with schools, government and community organizations
• Lead policy development and board relations
• Direct system-wide technology strategy and facilities planning
• Represent the library system at conferences and in the community

Skills

Strategic leadership

Financial management

Staff leadership

Grant writing

Community engagement

Education

Master’s degree in library & information science (ALA‑accredited)

Job description

Library Director: Washington County Library System

Washington County Library System – Director Position Opening

Position Title: Director
Location: Washington County, Mississippi
Organization: Washington County Library System (WCLS)

The Washington County Library System (WCLS) seeks an experienced, visionary, and community-focused Director to lead a dynamic seven-branch public library system serving Washington County, Mississippi.

This position serves as the chief administrative officer of the system, responsible for strategic leadership, operational excellence, financial stewardship, and the continued advancement of library services, facilities, and partnerships throughout the county.
The Director reports directly to the Board of Trustees and provides leadership for all library operations, staff, programs, and long-term planning.

Primary Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership & Vision
• Develop and implement long-range strategic plans aligned with community needs and Board priorities
• Lead modernization initiatives in technology, facilities, services, and organizational structure
• Identify emerging trends and integrate innovative library solutions
• Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and service excellence
• Governance & Board Relations
• Serve as chief advisor to the Board of Trustees
• Prepare materials and reports for all Board meetings
• Lead policy development and ensure compliance with state and federal requirements
• Coordinate trustee training and orientation programs
• Ensure transparent communication and effective governance practices

III. Operations & Administration

• Provide oversight of all library branches, departments, and staff
• Recruit, supervise, evaluate, and develop personnel
• Oversee facilities management, capital projects, and maintenance planning
• Direct system-wide technology strategy and implementation
• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards
• Prepare and administer the system’s annual operating and capital budgets
• Oversee purchasing, contracts, and financial controls
• Lead grant development, management, and reporting at the local, state, and federal levels
• Coordinate annual audits and financial reporting
• Advise the Board on long‑term fiscal planning and sustainability
• Community Engagement & Advocacy
• Serve as the primary public representative and advocate for WCLS
• Build strong partnerships with schools, governments, nonprofits, businesses, and civic organizations
• Lead public relations, marketing, and community outreach initiatives
• Communicate regularly with local, state, and federal officials regarding library priorities
• State & Professional Leadership
• Maintain active collaboration with the Mississippi Library Commission
• Ensure timely submission of all accreditation, grant, audit, and statistical reports
• Participate in professional organizations and continuing education
• Represent WCLS at conferences, workshops, and regional initiatives

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in library & information science (ALA‑accredited) required
• Minimum five years of progressively responsible leadership in public library administration or related executive management
• Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, financial management, staff leadership, and community engagement
• Proven record of grant writing, partnership development, and organizational transformation
• Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills

Salary Range: $70,000 – $80,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications
Annual performance and budget‑based increases if funding allows
Includes full Mississippi state benefits package.

Application Process

Submit:

• Professional references

Finalists may be asked to provide a public presentation to the Board of Trustees as part of the selection process.