Library Operations Director Job at Lsslibraries in Dallas

Description

The Library Operations Director plays a critical leadership role in supporting Library Systems & Services (LS&S) libraries and ensuring operational excellence across our national network. Reporting directly to the Vice Presidents of Library Operations, this position is instrumental in enhancing library services, streamlining workflows, and ensuring the consistent execution of organizational initiatives.

This position will provide regional and national support to all three Vice Presidents (East / Central, Riverside, West Coast) with initiatives and priorities as assigned.

The Library Operations Director will collaborate closely with Library Directors, staff, and LS&S leadership to deliver exceptional patron experiences, provide strategic and hands-on operational support, oversee key projects, and foster professional growth and engagement among employees. This role requires a blend of virtual collaboration and onsite presence at library locations to support and lead operational initiatives effectively.

Responsibilities

Function as a liaison between Library Directors, staff, and Leadership to ensure alignment and operational consistency.

Support the orientation, onboarding, training, and professional development of staff across all regions.

Coach and mentor employees to strengthen organizational knowledge, foster career growth, and enhance engagement and retention.

Evaluate library operations, identifying opportunities for process improvements that enhance client, patron, and staff satisfaction.

Oversee and coordinate monthly statistics, annual state reporting, and the preparation of client-facing operational reports.

Partner with Library Directors to review and update policies, procedures, and operational plans to ensure best practices.

Lead and manage assigned LS&S projects, including facilities, building initiatives, and system-wide operational improvements.

Identify, develop, and implement innovative solutions that elevate the patron experience and library services.

Collaborate on planning and executing staff development days, and support branding, marketing, and outreach initiatives.

Advise and support hiring managers throughout the recruitment and talent acquisition process.

Provide administrative support, including maintenance of operations manuals, and facilitation of training sessions.

Assist with grant applications, including data collection, analysis, and reporting for grants and special projects.

Contribute to strategic planning efforts.

Stay informed of emerging trends and technologies in Library Operations and integrate these insights into local and national programming strategies.

Represent LS&S at industry conferences and professional events, serving as an ambassador for the organization.

Working primarily from an LS&S-managed library and traveling regularly to library sites to provide hands-on leadership and support (travel - 30-35%).

This position can be based in one of our LS&S Managed Libraries in VA, FL, TX, TN, KS, or CA.

This is not a remote position.

Requirements

MLS / MLIS (Master of Library Science / Library and Information Studies) or equivalent is required.

Minimum 5 years of progressive managerial or administrative experience in library operations (or equivalent leadership experience).

Proven ability to analyze and leverage library data (usage, demographics, trends) to inform decision-making.

Project Management experience is strongly preferred.

Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Exceptional organizational, writing, and communication skills with the ability to multitask effectively.

Strong understanding of library programming, financial management, and operational best practices.

Core Competencies

Adaptability : Thrives in a dynamic, multi-region environment while maintaining focus on results.

Ethical Leadership : Demonstrates integrity, transparency, and alignment with LS&S values.

Relationship Building : Cultivates strong partnerships with clients, patrons, and internal teams.

Communication : Communicates clearly and persuasively, tailoring messages to diverse audiences.

Innovation : Develops creative and scalable solutions to enhance library services.

Client Focus : Anticipates client needs and delivers high-quality service experiences.

Team Leadership : Inspires and leads teams with collaboration and accountability.

Strategic Thinking : Aligns operational decisions with long-term organizational goals.

Problem-Solving : Diagnoses challenges, proposes solutions, and drives measurable improvements.

Planning and Organization : Prioritizes initiatives, manages resources effectively, and ensures timely project execution.

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