Job Analysis Part 1

There are two career paths that have sparked my interest, Public Library Director and Directory of Rare Books and Manuscripts.  Each of these jobs have very different aspects and requirements, but they both require excellent management skills.

Public Library Director
The position of Public Library Director in a multi-branch library system requires a high performing skill set and years of experience.  The Director manages all aspects of a library system. It is their responsibility to hire and manage branch managers, delegate key library functions, prepare budgets, continually evaluate library services, represent the library's financial interests to city councils and boards, advocate and promote the library and library services.  A director has to have excellent communication skills. They answer directly to a library board, and work with the board to plan and evaluate future needs and services of a library. Most job postings for a Library Director require an MLS from an ALA accredited program and a minimum of 3-5 years of library experience in a management role.

Director of Rare Books and Manuscripts
A Director of Rare Books and Manuscripts oversees all aspects of a rare book special collection. These jobs are mainly found in Universities and museums.  A Director of a rare book collection manages a budget, implements public outreach programs and exhibitions, leads fund raising activities, directs projects such as preservation and digitization of a collection, and supervises staff. Job requirements include an MLS from an ALA accredited program with an advanced degree preferred, experience working with and preserving special collections, experience developing exhibitions, proven ability to manage budget, ability to supervise staff, excellent communication skills, and an understanding of technology and its role in preserving and organizing materials.

References

ALA JobLIST. (n.d.). ALA JobLIST. Retrieved  February 16, 2014, from http://joblist.ala.org/

Director, Rare Book & Manuscript Library - New York, NY - employment opportunity or job position     METRO METRO. (n.d.). Director, Rare Book & Manuscript Library - New York, NY - employment       opportunity or job position METRO METRO. Retrieved February 16, 2014, from http://metro.org/jobs/director-rare-book-manuscript-library-488/

Library Director - Position Description. (n.d.). Menasha Public Library. Retrieved February 16, 2014, from http://www.menashalibrary.org/directorpositio