Executive Director Search
Whitman County Rural Library District based in Colfax, Washington
WCL formed in 1945, a junior taxing district encompassing 2200 square miles and nearly 16,000 residents. Service is provided through a network of 14 branch libraries* and a dedicated staff of 15 FTE. Each community is unique, yet all have demonstrated a proven commitment to education and libraries.
The main branch in Colfax is open 7 days per week, serving as a hub of activity for the region and district operations. The Colfax Branch was completely remodeled in 2009 with an attached art gallery, technology center, and events center completed in 2018.
In partnership with 13 towns, the remaining branches have very limited hours (8-20 per week). All locations provide quality programming, diverse collections along with public computing, Wi-Fi hotspots and community programs.
Colfax and the surrounding vicinity provide abundant opportunity for education, employment, health care, recreation and community involve-ment. Colfax serves as the county seat, and home to 2,850 residents who enjoy a bustling downtown, safe neighborhoods, and an award winning school district.
Within a short drive are the cities of Pullman, Washington and Moscow, Idaho. With these, comes all the amenities of city life and major state universities. Recreational activities abound, including land-scape photography, river and outdoor activities, university sporting and cultural events, entertainment and nightlife. Please take a moment to explore the region online. You’ll be surprised at all that awaits.
The Position
Whitman County Rural Library District (WCL) seeks an energetic dynamic Director to provide leadership, stewardship and administrative oversight for all library operations as well as oversee the Bettie Steiger Community Enrichment Center. This position guides community engagement, partnership activities and promotes the library throughout the county and the region. The Director provides administrative support to the Board of Trustees, helping to develop and successfully implement a strategic vision that best serves the community.
WCL has seen much success and desires a Director to build upon this solid foundation. We seek a candidate who is passionate about libraries and communities, skilled in public administration and staff development, yet willing to lend a hand with day-to-day services.
Ideal Qualifications
WHITMAN COUNTY LIBRARY
COLFAX BRANCH & CENTER, DISTRICT OWNED
14 BRANCH LIBRARIES, PROVIDED THROUGH LONG-STANDING COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
30+ EMPLOYEES (15 FTE)
500+ FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY
15,700 RESIDENTS
169,419 CIRCULATION
49,042 PROGRAM ATTENDANCE,
42,425 PUBLIC COMPUTER USAGE
2233 VOLUNTEER HOURS
ANNUAL BUDGET $1.17 MILLION
Minimum Requirements
A Master’s in Library or Information Science from an ALA-accredited program and Washington State Library certification. A minimum of two years public library experience in management and staff supervision. A combination of education and experience which demonstrates the ability to successfully meet the requirements of the position may be considered, as will pending accreditation or librarian certification. Click here to see the full job description.
Application Process
Only applicants able to meet the minimum requirements will be considered. An applicant must submit a letter of interest, resume, and include at least three professional references to: Whitman County Library Director Search c/o Joy Neal PHR, P.O. Box 552, La Conner, WA 98257. Applications will be accepted via email and may be sent to libraryapplicants@gmail.com.
Equal Opportunity/Non-Discriminatory Employer
All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, creed, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, veteran status, marital status, or the presence of physical, sensory or mental disability, or any other characteristic protected by law, except where specific age, sex, or physical requirements constitute a bona fide occupational qualification necessary for proper and efficient performance of that occupation.
