Library Public Services Area Manager
The
Milwaukee Public Library is looking for a
Library Public Services Area Manager of our historic Central Library located at 814 W. Wisconsin Ave! This position oversees collection maintenance, circulation, subject services, general reference, budgeting, staffing, partnership development, social impact services and programs, and the Wisconsin Talking Book and Braille Library (WTBBL). Additionally, the Library Public Services Area Manager is responsible for cultivating an environment where excellence and innovation thrive.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Leadership and Administration:
- Develop and direct staff in the provision of programs, material handling, performance management, collection development and maintenance, and resource delivery.
- Oversee Central Library public services staff scheduling, making emergency staff assignments as necessary.
- Participate in staff recruitment, selection, discipline, recognition, transfer, and promotion.
- Formulate annual goals and objectives that meet community needs and support the Library’s mission and vision, establishing strategies to measure the outcome.
- Assist in budget preparation, allocation of resources, and monitoring of expenditures.
- Develop Library policies and procedures, and apply and interpret Library Board and City policies in complex situations.
- Chair monthly team meetings and participate in administrative meetings and planning sessions.
- Follow and enforce safe work procedures and accident prevention practices.
- Serve as Person-in-Charge of the Central Library as scheduled, which includes overall supervision of public service areas, adjusting staff schedules, investigating accidents and filing accurate reports.
- Collaborate with security personnel to maintain proper decorum and compliance with the Library’s code of conduct, investigating accidents and filing the appropriate reports.
- Serve as a resource to the Audio and Braille Literacy Enhancement (ABLE, Inc.), the Central Library coffee shop vendor, and the Friends of the Milwaukee Public Library for the Bookseller volunteers.
- Respond to requests from organization representatives on matters relating to facilities, security, signage, and other issues requiring Library staff approval or awareness.
- Serve as the first line of communication between Central Library public services staff, tenants, Fleet & Facilities, and Security managers.
- Assist in planning the Central Library renovations and building projects.
Community Outreach and Advocacy:
- Create opportunities to strengthen MPL and the Central Library’s reputation through targeted programming, services, tours, training, and promotions.
- Initiate contacts in the community and collaborate with community organizations on library-connected programs, and host visitors from the County and State.
- Collaborate with others to enhance MPL’s virtual service point by further developing unique digital archives and finding aids.
- Monitor and evaluate local and regional use of collections and resources to develop and present related reports.
- Keep stakeholders informed about the benefits associated with using library facilities and resources.
- In collaboration with Milwaukee Public Library Foundation staff, lead the Friends of the Milwaukee Public Library Docent program.
- Assist the Library Director with Milwaukee Public Library Foundation events.
Performance Management:
- Develop written performance expectations for staff.
- Evaluate staff performance and provide counsel on professional development, enhancing their skills in communication and delivering high-quality service.
- Plan and conduct in-service sessions and staff meetings.
- Assist in developing training for staff on new technologies.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
- Work flexible work hours, including some evening and weekend hours, over 40 hours per week.
- Available for emergencies on call 24 hours a day.
- Lift and move items weighing up to 10 pounds occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects.
- File a Statement of Economic Interests in accordance with the Milwaukee Code of Ordinances Chapter 303-Code of Ethics.
HOW TO APPLY
- The deadline to apply for this position is Monday, July 7, 2025.
- Applications must be submitted via the City of Milwaukee website linked here.
