Advocacy, Outreach and Sustainability Coordinator (Search Extended)

Finger Lakes Library System based in Ithaca, NY, serving 33 public libraries in Cayuga, Cortland, Seneca, Tioga and Tompkins Counties seeks a dynamic individual with a Master of Library Science degree to fill the position of Advocacy, Outreach and Sustainability Coordinator.  Our ideal candidate will have strong communication skills, the ability to promote libraries and library services and to assist the System and its member libraries in building local, county and state support for initiatives. The position will also oversee outreach services connecting patrons to library services via publications, marketing, customer analysis, and community engagement. The full time position (35 hours a week) requires some weekend and evening hours. Salary is commensurate with experience including generous benefits. The complete job description is posted below. Interested applicants should email a cover letter, resume and a list of three references to Kimberly Iraci, Executive Director of Finger Lakes Library System at kiraci@flls.org  Review of applicants will begin on October 15, 2012.

Finger Lakes Library System

Advocacy, Outreach and Sustainability Coordinator

SUMMARY: Responsible for developing methods of improving libraries and library services in the areas of outreach, governance, advocacy, funding, and marketing. Functions as part of professional management team.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Provides expertise, mediation, facilitation and consultation to member libraries in the areas of sustainable funding (including budget votes and re-chartering/redistricting), outreach, governance, awareness, marketing and advocacy.

Assists member libraries in developing library programs and services to any or all of the eight targeted outreach populations: Aged, Blind/Physically Disabled, Developmentally or Learning Disabled, Institutionalized, Members of ethnic/minority groups in need of special services, Educationally Disadvantaged, Unemployed/Underemployed, Geographically isolated.

Provides leadership in advocacy efforts at the local, state and federal levels with the goal of sustainable funding and broader community support for libraries.

Coordinates and oversees Library Advocacy Day activities for the System.

Assists with the coordination of communication with elected officials.

Oversees correctional and jail services; provides consultant support to facility librarians.

Assists in annual report process providing statistics, member library support and serving on review team.

Assists member libraries in developing library programs and services to improve adult literacy including a lead role in NYS Adult Literacy grant application, projects and reporting.

Prepares grants and assists member libraries in preparing grants.

Participates and attends pertinent conferences, workshops and continuing education opportunities and makes this information available to member libraries.

Facilitates communication with Executive Director to and among member library directors, staff, trustees and Friends through electronic and print outlets.

Management of the weekly newsletter (FLLS Bulletin), System newsletters, social media and assigned web site sections.

Presents and or facilitates workshops and meetings.

Represents FLLS on committees and with community agencies.

In conjunction with the Outreach Services Manager, recruits and facilitates the Coordinated Outreach Services Advisory Group.

Serves as a liaison to Department of Library Development in areas of responsibility.

Supervises one or more employees. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring and the training of employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

Work cooperatively with other Departments on mutual goals and system wide projects.

Other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

Master’s Degree (MLS,MIS) from an ALA accredited institution.

New York Public Librarian’s Certification Valid New York State Driver’s License Travel within Library System service area and Albany including Legislative Advocacy Day.

OTHER SKILLS and ABILITIES:

Five or more years of related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Knowledge of modern library practices, procedures, policies, needs and services.

Knowledge of New York State laws and regulation, especially those dealing with budget votes, 414s, 259s, re-chartering and redistricting as well as outreach services.

Ability to work cooperatively and professionally as part of a team.

Excellent communication and technology skills.

Strong graphic design and writing skills.

HOURS: Full time (35 hours per week). Some weekend and evening hours may be required.

SALARY AND BENEFITS: Salary commensurate with experience. Benefits include New York State Retirement, Health Insurance, Disability, and TIAA-CREF