Technical Services Manager (TSM)

Rutherford County Library System (RCLS); Murfreesboro (TN); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Rutherford County Library System (RCLS) seeks a Technical Services Manager to lead the selection of all library materials and ensure accurate cataloging and effective communication across departments. The role oversees collection maintenance in collaboration with staff.

The ideal candidate will have an MLS (ALA-accredited) with at least 3 years of management-level public library experience, strong vendor relations, and proficiency in data reporting.

Qualifications

• MLS with 3+ years of management-level public library experience.
• Strong familiarity with vendor databases and collection development procedures.
• Excellent verbal and written communication; strong analytical and reporting skills.
• Valid Tennessee driver’s license or ID.
• Flexible, full-time schedule including nights and weekends.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all functions of the Technical Services Department.
• Develop collections per collection development policy to meet community needs and legal requirements.
• Identify materials for purchase via reviews, bestseller lists, patron requests, staff input; manage vendor relations and ordering.
• Create selection lists, holds, circulation reports; analyze data to guide collection improvements.
• Coordinate weeding projects; train staff on procedures; evaluate donations and damaged items.
• Assist in developing the operating budget and monitor expenditures for materials.
• Collaborate with supervisors and branch managers on department projects.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Skills

Library management

Verbal & written communication

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Data interpretation

Education

Master’s in Library Science (ALA-accredited)

Job description

Description

TECHNICAL SERVICES MANAGER

RUTHERFORD COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM

ORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION:

Rutherford County Library System (RCLS) is comprised of six branches and a Bookmobile serving the Greater Rutherford County community. RCLS receives funding from three cities (Eagleville, Murfreesboro, and Smyrna) and Rutherford County, though the Board of Directors of RCLS (“the Board”) governs it. Our mission is to empower the community with resources to explore, imagine, and engage.

SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the RCLS Director, the Technical Services Manager (TSM) will be responsible for the selection of all library materials in all formats and for all age groups; ensuring accurate cataloging records; ensuring effective communication with all relevant departments; and overseeing collection maintenance in collaboration with library staff.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manages all functions of the Technical Services Department.
• Develops collections in accordance with the goals of the collection development policy in order to provide collections that meet the community’s needs as well as local, state, and federal laws.
• Identifies materials for purchase by reading reviews on materials, reviewing bestseller lists, patron requests, staff suggestions, and collection analysis results; negotiates vendor relations; and orders materials in order to select materials for collections.
• Creates selection lists, holds, circulation, and other reports and analyzes statistical data in order to determine collection improvement strategies.
• Coordinates weeding projects, provides training and support in the use of weeding procedures, and evaluates donations and damaged/missing items in order to keep collections current and useful.
• Assists in developing the operating budget; monitors expenditures in order to spend allocated dollars on materials for collections.
• Participates in meetings and activities and works with other supervisors and satellite/branch managers on projects to ensure the smooth operation of the department.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s Degree in Library Science from an ALA‑accredited program and a minimum of 3 years of recent management‑level public library experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• A thorough understanding of the rules and procedures governing library operations. Strong familiarity with utilizing vendor databases, choosing items, and dealing with library collections.
• Proficiency in verbal and written communication; strong analytical and problem‑solving skills; developing staff procedures and guidelines, interpreting statistical data, formulating recommendations, and writing reports; coordinating multiple projects; accurately organizing and recording information; and using word processing, database, and spreadsheet software.
• Possess a valid Tennessee driver’s license or ID.
• Flexible scheduling is required, but a regular work schedule, including nights and weekends, with occasional exceptions, is possible. This position is full‑time exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• The job location is at, but not limited to, the administrative and technical services offices of RCLS.
• Physical condition necessary for the regular, and at times sustained, performance of heavier physical tasks such as walking over rough or uneven surfaces.
• Frequent bending, stooping, and working in confined spaces.
• Lifting or carrying moderately heavy (20–50 lbs.) items and occasionally very heavy (50 lbs. and over) items
• Minimal dexterity in the use of fingers, limbs, or body in the operation of office equipment.
• Utilizing a keyboard and sitting or standing for extended periods.
• Tasks require sound, color, depth, and visual perception.

This job description describes the nature and level of assignments normally given in this position. It is merely a list of responsibilities; more can be added at any time. Employees are expected to carry out additional, area‑specific tasks that may not be included in this summary. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between RCLS and the employee and is subject to change as the needs of RCLS and the requirements of the job change.