Director Knowledge Curation & Innovation

Director, Knowledge Curation & Innovation

THE WESTPORT (CT) LIBRARY

Transform, Transcend, & Deliver new models of information curation, delivery and access as Westport Library�s Director, Knowledge Curation & Innovation. The Director, Knowledge Curation & Innovation will support traditional library adult and teen collections, reference, and reader�s advisory and experiential learning while growing new service models, fostering content development, and delivering new approaches to collections, information, and outreach services. He/she will work with a team of professionals across the Library to oversee the selection of digital resources, books and other learning tools. Designing and implementing new approaches to building collections, information delivery, and content creation is vital to the position.

The Director Knowledge Curation & Innovation must have a respect for the past and the ability to see the future of library collections and services. With a strong love of information gathering and sharing, This valued Library team member will strategically develop new ways of content access and delivery. A customer service focus-both internally and externally-is essential. This position contributes to short and long-range planning, program development, and evaluation, and provides input into allocation of resources in support of the Library�s collections and services.

The Westport Library is a vibrant and welcoming community hub that reflects Westport�s spirit, creativity and entrepreneurship. Each day, an average of 1,300 patrons of all ages visit the Library to read and research (borrowing nearly 674,000 items last year), attend one of the Library�s 1,600 programs, consult with the Library�s expert reference librarians, use one of the Library�s ten 3-D printers, shop the Library store, meet friends at the Library Caf� or simply enjoy the camaraderie of being in a dynamic shared space. In 2013, the Library Journal designated the Westport Library as a �Five-Star Library�, a distinction earned by less than 1% of the nation�s libraries and in 2015 the Library was one of five finalists for the IMLS National Medal for Museum and Library Services. The Westport Library was also among the first in the nation to establish a Maker Space, a place for creation, collaboration, innovation and entrepreneurship. The Library is supported by a $4.3 million annual Town appropriation and supplemented by an active development effort, as well as grants, fees and earned income, resulting in a $5.6 million annual operating budget. For more about the Library and the Town, see Westport Links.

Qualifications. The successful candidate will have an ALA accredited Masters� of Library Science (preferred) and a minimum of five (5) years professional experience in a public library setting or information-based environment demonstrating progressively responsible management experience. Desired attributes and skills include knowledge of current library trends in the areas of collections and content development; strong computer and technology skills; a customer service orientation; excellent oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills; and the ability to work collaboratively in a team-based environment. Flexibility and ability to thrive in a complex, changing environment with competing demands and proven success in planning, introducing, and managing change is crucial. This position must be flexible to work evenings and weekends when required. For the complete job description, visit Director Knowledge Curation & Innovation.

Compensation. The position offers a hiring salary range of $70,000 to $85,000 (with placement dependent upon experience and qualifications) and an attractive benefits package.