Executive Director

Company: Newton Public Library,
Position: Executive Director,
Classification: Exempt,
Salary
:
Starting at $72,000/annual, and then as based on experience,
Reports to: Library Board of Trustees,
Location: Onsite, Newton Public Library

This position will remain open until:
September 14, 2026

Summary/Objective: The Director develops, sustains, and implements the mission of the library under the general direction of the Board of Trustees of the Newton Public Library. The Director oversees library services with vision, responsibility and authority.

• Acts as executive, financial and chief vision officer of the library, developing strategic goals, objectives and priorities to ensure long-term responsiveness and viability of library services
• Establishes all policies and reviews procedures for the library, including emergency and safety policies, with final policy approval resting with the Board of Trustees
• Handles all library legal matters in consultation with the Board of Trustees and the library’s attorney
• Completes yearly state survey, annual report, and other statistical reports as needed
• Develops events, projects, and services to enhance library services, in consultation with staff, Board, and Foundation Board
• Actively participates in professional associations, meetings, conferences, and continuing education opportunities
• Manages the development of capital improvement projects and oversees contractor work for major projects
• Manages insurance coverage on all facilities, fixed assets, and inventory in coordination with the City of Newton and the library’s insurance provider

• Acts as primary spokesperson and representative for the library
• Responds to inquiries involving library-related matters; negotiates and resolves complex, sensitive, and/or controversial issues and complaints
• Acts as administrative officer and secretary of the Library Board, preparing monthly board reports, and advising the Board on financial planning, budgeting, policy development, and long-term planning
• Develops and maintains a relationship with the City of Newton to ensure cooperation and sustainable library funding, and serves as liaison to City financial, facilities, and human resource departments.
• Serves as board member and secretary for the Newton Public Library Foundation Board, and guides NPLF’s fundraising and advocacy efforts to support the library in partnership with the Central Kansas Community Foundation
• Provides information to and attends meetings of the Florence Bessmer Foundation Board, and works to maintain an effective and communicative relationship with the Bessmer Board
• Networks with external agencies and partners, and/or directs appropriate staff to serve as contacts, to ensure collaboration and cooperation among community stakeholders

• Prepares & manages the yearly library budget for approval by the Board of Trustees
• Assigns spending limits to library departments as appropriate
• Oversees administration of all funds for the Florence Bessmer Foundation, Newton Public Library Foundation, state funds, or other special grant fund allocations.
• Handles yearly audit with City-selected firm
• Submits payroll and accounts payable invoices to the accountant for processing
• When applicable, applies for grant funding to supplement other established revenue streams.

• Hires and terminates library employees
• Serves as human resources contact for staff, handling issues such as benefits coverage, ADA accommodations, and personnel policies
• Manages personnel files and documentation
• Works with Assistant Director to develop yearly goals for staff members and provide evaluation of those goals on a regular basis
• Proposes pay scales and compensation development for consideration by the Board of Trustees

• Participates in professional organizations, meetings, and conferences, and keeps informed of professional development opportunities
• Encourages staff, Board, and Foundation Board to take part in continued learning opportunities through meetings, workshops, seminars/webinars, and conferences.

• Master of Library…