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Trustee Training Resources: Hiring a Library Director

Being a Public Library Trustee is a big responsibility. In fact, the State of Kansas takes it so seriously, there are laws governing public library boards. This resource guide walks you through library law and tools to be the best Public Library Board Mem

Library Board Duties

One of the most important jobs a Library Board does is hire the Library Director. This Resource Guide offers resources to help a Library Board in that process. 

Washington State

Steps for Hiring a Director

Plan to appoint an interim director, if there is time. 

Draft a job description.

Prepare information that will accompany the job description. This includes information about the library and community that will attract candidates. 

Establish a search committee. 

Advertise the position. 

Screen applications. 

Prepare interview questions.

Interview candidates. 

Select the new library director and make a job offer to the best candidate. 

Develop a work agreement form ​​​​​​, which details the position, to whom the director reports, starting salary, evaluation process, and any verbal promises made by the Library Board. 

Give the new director an orientation to the library. 

Call CKLS to train the new director. 

Evaluate the new director's performance during the probationary period. 

This list was taken in large part from the Washington State Library Trustee Wiki Guide, How to Hire a Library Director

Personnel Improvement Plan

There arises, from time to time, a need to clarify expectations of behavior and work. The Library may wish to consult with the Central Kansas Library System to discuss necessary steps for remediation. This should be done well before the employee's annual evaluation. An employee should not hear for the first time in the annual evaluation that their performance is below standard. 

The following links and documents can guide the Library in preparing a personnel improvement plan for an employee with substandard performance. 

What is a PIP?

Sample Personnel Improvement Plan

The 20 Second Conversation (video workshop)

Have you ever worked with someone who should have been fired? Have you noticed that sometimes we go 20 years avoiding a 20 second talk? This workshop focuses on how to build a script for a crucial conversation, predicated on courtesy, clarity, and communication.

Videos

The Southeast Kansas Library System created and produced a lively three-part video series on hiring a new library director.

 

Part 1: Recruitment; Interview Questions; What to Look For

Part 2: Pitfalls to Avoid, Nepotism, Requirements

Part 3: References, Unconscious Bias, Job-Hopping

Simple Application for Employment