Head Librarian

About Us

Founded in 1931 JBI Library is a nonprofit organization that supports anyone who is blind has low vision or has a print disability so that they may fullyparticipatein Jewish lifefrom education and community to prayer and celebration. We are the heart of a community where our patrons can come for accessible books and texts cultural programs learning and all things that connect people to Judaism culture and community. We strive to remove barriers to accessibility and inclusion so that everyone can read learn and engage both with JBI and their local Jewish communityindependently and with dignity.

Position Summary

The Head Librarian is a senior leader responsible for the overall management and strategic direction of JBI Librarys patron services programming collection development integrated library system (ILS) community outreach and library operations. This position works closely with the Head of Production who oversees the creation of braille large print and audio materials as well as recording studio operations mailing and returns processing.

The Head Librarian supervises a team that includes the Russian Language Specialist the Patron Services and Programs Librarian a part-time outreach and volunteer consultant and a dedicated group of volunteers. As the leader of JBIs Library Departmentthe heart of the organizationthe Head Librarian ensures that patrons receive exceptional service meaningful engagement opportunities and access to high-quality accessible materials.

This role combines strategic leadership with hands-on service. The Head Librarian plays a key role in shaping the librarys vision managing daily operations building relationships with patrons and partner organizations expanding membership and developing innovative programs and services. Working closely with patrons the Head Librarian helps identifyemerging needsgeneratescreative ideas and developsnew strategies that enhance the patron experience and strengthen the librarys impact. The Head Librarian also oversees the departments budgetestablishesgoals and prioritiesmonitorsoutcomes and ensures that library services support JBI Librarys mission strategic plan and long-term sustainability.

As a member of the senior leadership team the Head Librarian works closely with the Executive Director staff and Board of Directors to help guide the organizations overall direction and impact.

Responsibilities

Leadership and Administration

• Provide strategic leadership and vision for the Library Department.

• Foster a culture of creativity innovation and continuous improvement encouraging staff volunteers and patrons to contribute ideas that enhance services programs and the overall patron experience.

• Supervise mentor and support library staff consultants and volunteers.

• Establish departmental goals priorities and performance measures.

• Manage the library department budget andallocateresources effectively.

• Foster a collaborative inclusive and mission-driven workplace culture.

Patron Engagement and Customer Service

• Cultivatestrong relationships with patrons through direct engagement and by leading the library team in delivering exceptional service and support via phone email Zoom and in-person interactions.

• Stay abreast of digital trends and integrate technology into library services.

• Respond to patron needs concerns and requests ina timelyand professional manner.

• Promotea strong senseof community among JBI patrons.
  

Community Outreach and Membership Growth

• Develop andmaintainrelationships with synagogues schools community organizations libraries NLS and service providers.

• Expand awareness ofJBILibrary and grow membership among individuals and institutions.

• Recruit train and support volunteer ambassadors and outreach volunteers.

• RepresentJBILibrary at conferences workshops webinars and community events.

• Advocate for disability inclusion and accessibility within Jewish communal life.

Collection Development and Library Services

• Partner with JBI Library patrons to oversee collection development and ensure the collection reflects the diverse interests and needs of patrons.

• Identifycollection gaps and make acquisition decisions consistent with JBIs collection development policies.

• Collaborate with the Production Department to prioritize new materials and accessible formats.

ILS and Library Technology Management

• Oversee the creation maintenance and quality control of library records using Keystones KLAS database.

• Generate reports and data analyses that support organizational planning and decision-making.

• Maintaindatabase integrity andidentifyopportunities to improve library services through technology.

• Stay informed about emerging technologies and trends in library and accessibility services.

Programming and Community Engagement

• Develop implement and evaluate educational cultural and social programs for patrons.Coordinate guest presenters facilitators and volunteers.

• Organize virtual and in-person events including workshops discussion groups field trips and community gatherings.

• Ensure programs support JBI Librarys mission and strategic goals.

Communications and Reporting

• Prepare monthly patron newsletters bi-monthly aggregated news magazines and other patron communications.

• Produce monthly statistical and impact reports that track patron engagement circulation program participation and serviceutilization.

• Analyze trends and outcomes to support strategic planning fundraising grant reporting and continuous improvement.

• Share insights and recommendations with organizational leadership and other departments.

Qualifications

• Masters degree in library science (MLS/MLIS) from an accredited institution.

• Minimum of 5 years of professional library experience withprogressively responsible experience withat least 2 years in asupervisory or leadership role

• Experience or knowledge of accessible literacy and disability culture

• Familiarity withanILS.

• Exceptional communication relationship-buildingwritingcollaboration and problem-solving skills.

• Passion for bookshelping people disability inclusionlifelong learning and community engagement.

Salary

The salary range is $75000 to $85000. The position also offers an attractive benefits package.The regular hours are 9:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays.This position is openuntilfilled.

Work Environment

JBI Library is committed to fostering a collaborative mission-driven workplace that values accessibility innovation and work-life balance.Additionalbenefits of working at JBI include:

• 35-hour work week (MondayThursday 8:45 a.m.6:00 p.m.)

• Professional development funding

• Generous paid time off and leave policies

• Mission-driven culture focused on expanding access and inclusion

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of people who are blind have low vision or have print disabilities

Application Process

Interested candidates shouldsubmittheir application resume and cover letter to JBIs employment portal: your cover letter please highlight your relevant experience and your exposure to working with diverse communities. If you have any questions please contact Andrew Goodman JBIs COO at

Equal Opportunity Employer

JBI Library is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is deeply committed to building a workplace that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We celebrate and encourage applicants of all backgrounds identities and lived experiences and we believe that inclusion accessibility and dignity strengthen our work and our mission. All employment decisions are made without regard to any protectedcharacteristicandin accordance withapplicable federal state and local laws.