Collections Manager

Summary

Library Collections consists of two departments, Collection Development and Discovery Services. Reporting to the Director of Library Collections, the Collections Manager oversees the Collection Development department, managing centralized collection development responsibilities, resources, and data. The position is responsible for the physical and digital materials collections and electronic resources and supervises the Collection Development Librarians, who select and maintain physical materials, and the Sr. Virtual Resources Librarian, who selects, maintains, and provides training for the digital materials and electronic resources.  

Supporting collection impact, strategy, and innovation, the Collections Manager requires strong supervisory skills; understanding application of collection development principles; expertise in data analysis and presentation in a data-informed environment; effective use of reporting and discovery tools to support decision making; thoughtful and accurate materials funds management; experience with vendor relations, including contract review and negotiation; and ability to select materials for special collections.

Critical to the success of Library Collections, the Collections Manager plays an integral role, collaborating closely with the Director of Library Collections and Discovery Services in a creative and dynamic environment.

This is a full-time, exempt position with a starting salary of $63,026, plus excellent benefits. 

Schedule

Monday - Friday: 8:30 am - 5 pm.

Job Duties (Essential Functions)

1. Contributes to development and execution of system-wide collection strategy aligned with organizational and departmental priorities and community needs.
2. Supervises Collection Development staff activities and development.
3. Manages and maintains the Collection Management Plan (CMaP) that informs and guides Library Collections goals and practices.
4. Creates, coordinates, implements, and supervises efficient staff processes and workflows.
5. Utilizes data reporting systems to design reports and evaluate collection performance, informing departmental and organizational decision making.
6. Develops and monitors budget allocations, priorities, and strategies.
7. Creates and maintains documentation, including space maps and plans, materials distribution, purchasing priorities, and data reports.
8. Establishes and maintains vendor relationships, identifying needs, evaluating effectiveness and performance, and assisting with agreement negotiations.
9. Identifies vendors and selects materials for specialized collections such as World Language.

Additional Duties

1. Provides backup for other roles, including physical and digital materials selection and collection maintenance.
2. Collaborates on departmental and cross-departmental special projects initiatives.
3. Communicates collection strategy and performance metrics to stakeholders.
4. Contributes to Library Collections messaging through promotion and education.
5. Participates as an expert in meetings, workgroups, committees, and initiatives.
6. Displays knowledge of library goals, initiatives, services, and programs.
7. Cultivates and maintains professional relationships in and outside the library.
8. Demonstrates knowledge of trends in librarianship, publishing, and education.

1. Knowledge of and ability to apply collection development principles and practices.
2. Ability to plan, organize, supervise, and prioritize work effectively and efficiently.
3. Experience with project management. 
4. Ability to effectively use or develop proficiency in Microsoft Excel, BlueCloud Analytics, and CollectionHQ and other resources to provide data informed expertise.
5. Proficiency in public library materials selection for adult and youth audiences.
6. Experience identifying, using, and evaluating databases and electronic resources.
7. Experience with budget and funds management.
8. Experience with automated library systems.
9. Knowledge of and ability to use resources and methods to analyze data.
10. Proficiency in oral, written, and public communication.
11. Ability to establish and maintain effective collaborative working relationships.
12. Knowledge of current publishing practices and consumer materials use.
13. Able to lift and carry books up to 20 lbs and move book trucks up to 100 lbs.
14. Ability to speak and understand English is required. Additional consideration will be given to individuals that are proficient in any non-English language utilized in Jackson County, MO, including Spanish, American Sign Language, Vietnamese, French, Arabic, and Swahili.

Required Education and Experience

• Master of Library Science degree from an accredited Library Science Degree program.
• Two years public services experience, preferably in a public library.
• Three years professional collection development experience, preferably in a public library.
• Three years supervisory experience.
• One year vendor relations with contract review and negotiation experience. 

Work Environment

Work is performed at the Central Library location. Primary workspace is shared with co-workers in an office environment. 

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

The employee must be able to perform the essential functions and job requirements of the position satisfactorily. If requested, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job, absent undue hardship.

How to Apply

Please apply for this position through our web application system. We only accept applications for specific currently open positions made through our online system. Access the online application from the job listing on the Job Opportunities Page. The application system allows you to attach a document (such as a cover letter or a resume) to your application (10MB limit per document). When you submit your application, an acknowledgement will be sent to the email address you provided. You are welcome to apply for as

many positions as you wish. However, to minimize problems, close and restart your browser between each application.

All online Application for Employment forms must be completely filled out. For technical assistance, call 816.701.3712.

Kansas City Public Library is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.