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Director – Utica Public Library (NY)

TheUtica Public LibraryBoard of Trustees (NY) seeks an experienced library professional and exceptional communicator to lead the organization as the next Library Director. The Utica Public Library is a cherished historic landmark on the National Register of Historic Places, and a community hub that provides essential library services and collections to a diverse and high-needs patron population. Recently, the 120-year-old standalone location underwent a restoration process, resulting in a revitalized physical space for the 31,000-square-foot building. An accomplished and imaginative staff of 18 FTE offers library services that address the needs of its unique and diverse patron base with a budget of $1.8 million. The expertise, compassion, and fortitude of library staff is evident through mutually beneficial local and school partnerships, well-attended library programs, and a positive working environment. The next Library Director will lead this competent team of library staff, have strong working relationships with various government leaders, and report to a supportive, and collaborative fifteen-member Board of Trustees.

Key initiatives of this role will include fund development for upcoming capital campaigns and infrastructure improvement projects for the building, maintaining established relationships with local organizations, cultivating new relationships as a key partner in the community, library policy development, and long-range plan implementation. This individual will be accessible to the library staff, board, and wider community as a representative of the library, utilizing keen networking abilities and being a good source of communication both internally and externally.

The city of Utica is the county seat of Oneida County and has a population of 65,000. Located on the Mohawk River at the foot of theAdirondack Mountains, Utica has a rich history as a river-town, and much to offer with a variety of outdoor recreational activities such as hiking atF.T. Proctor ParkorRoscoe Conkling Park,biking theErie Canalway Trail,or riding theAdirondack Scenic Railroad. There are plentiful arts and cultural attractions, including theMunson Museum, theBroadway Theater League of Utica, and the historicStanley Theater.Numerous farmers’ markets, open mic nights, andfree concert-seriesprovide diverse and accessible entertainment. Famous for its unique cuisine, the city offers several restaurants with waterfront views and specialty dishes that can only be found in Utica. Recently recognized by Travel + Leisure magazine for itsaffordability,Utica is located within a 3.5- to 4-hour drive of Toronto, Montreal, Boston, New York City, and Philadelphia.

Responsibilities:The Library Director will oversee operations and personnel, ensuring that staff provide quality, patron-oriented library services to the public; ensure the entire community is aware of Utica Public Library’s programs and services through effective public relations; ensure the facility is welcoming and suitable for the public and staff; assess the library’s services and collections aligning them with the mission and strategic plan; develop an annual budget; monitor revenue and expenditures; prepare financial administration and reports to the Board of Trustees; participate and lead fund development; research, identify, and apply for alternative revenue streams; and regularly communicate progress towards goals to internal and external audiences. Additional responsibilities are outlined in the job description.

Qualifications:Master’sDegree in Library Information Science from an ALA accredited University, aNew York State Public Library Certificate(or the ability to obtain certificate prior to start date), fiveyears public library experience with increasing management responsibility, a demonstrated commitment to patron-centered library service and extensive community involvement and outreach. Familiarity with New York State Public Library Systems is preferred.

Compensation:The hiring salary range is$85,000 – $110,000(with placement negotiable dependent on experience and qualifications) and an excellent fringe benefits package.

For further information, contact Bradbury Miller Associates (https://bradburymiller.com/). Interested candidates should submit their resume through the application portal (https://bradburymiller.com/current-clients/) by selecting the position and then the “Apply” button. This position closes onSunday, August 3, 2025.

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