Manager, Information Services (One year)

Surrey Libraries is an innovative and award-winning library system that provides a wide range of materials, programs, and information services to the community. We are a growing library system, recognized for our ability to respond creatively to our active and diverse community through outreach to community groups and partnerships with agencies. In addition to our collections, progressive use of technology and a wide variety of digital resources, we specialize in genealogical materials and multilingual collections in 16 languages. Our 10 branches, together with our website www.surreylibraries.ca and Mobile Library serves a population of more than 600,000.

There is an opening for the position of Manager, Information Services at Library Administration. This is an exempt full-time (35 hours per week) position reporting to the Director, Public Services. This is a one year temporary position with the possibility of extension.

The Manager, Information Services is responsible for planning, coordinating, and developing strategies and services to meet the information needs of customers in branches and online. The Manager IS, leads the administration, evaluation and long-term planning of information services for the library, facilitating an environment that promotes and maintains excellent customer service.

Major Responsibilities and Duties

• Develops and recommends policies, procedures and practices relating to the delivery of information, online and public services.
• Identifies and coordinates the training and development of information services staff. Prepares and/or delivers in-house training in specialized information services functions as necessary to ensure well-qualified staff.  
• Oversees the hiring, training, supervision and evaluation of reporting to the position. Disciplinary responsibilities range from verbal and written warnings up to and including suspension.
• Supports development and maintenance of website, ensuring content is accurate and up to date.
• Provides input on promoting the Library’s online resources and services.
• Generates and gathers statistics and prepares reports for the Library regarding issues and activities relating to Information Services.
• Co-ordinates and directs assignment of ongoing tasks and special projects to Information Services staff throughout the system.
• Co-ordinates and/or participates in library committees and undertakes special projects as requested.
• Communicates and maintains an effective working relationship with Library staff, appropriate city personnel, and representatives of other library organisations, and government agencies.
• Represents the Library at a variety of community and civic activities or through participation in library associations or consortia activities.
• Forms strategic partnerships and maintains good working relationships with community organizations such as community associations, educational institutions and others to discuss library services and promote library use.
• Investigates complaints relating to Information Services and resolves by taking appropriate action.
• Represents Management in Labour Management and grievance matters, as required.
• Performs other related duties.

Qualifications, Knowledge, and Skills

• Master of Library Science from an A.L.A. accredited university program.
• Three to five years experience in a public library or equivalent public service experience.
• Previous supervisory or team leader experience.
• Knowledge of current trends and developments in public library service, particularly in the area of information and reference services.
• Knowledge of online tools and resources and computer applications as it relates to providing information services.
• Knowledge of concepts and terminology related to budgeting, information technology and labour relations in a library setting.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to learn and assess new technology rapidly.
• Skill in presenting programs and teaching groups of various sizes.
• Ability to manage and organize multiple projects under time constraints.
• Ability to manage and lead others, with ability to delegate and give clear direction.

Salary: $102,878 – $117,410