Community Engagement Manager

Position Summary

The Community Engagement Manager is a dynamic leader responsible for overseeing the creation, delivery, and evaluation of all library programs while actively participating in their development and execution. This role ensures that library programming reflects the diverse needs and interests of the community, supports the library’s mission, and aligns with its strategic goals. The Manager collaborates across departments to foster innovative and inclusive programming, supervises staff, and provides leadership in collection management under the CEO’s direction. By combining strategic oversight with hands-on engagement, the Community Engagement Manager ensures the library remains a vibrant hub for literacy, learning, and cultural enrichment.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Program Management and Oversight

• Lead the planning, development, and coordination of all library programs, ensuring alignment with community needs, strategic goals, and the library’s mission.
• Establish and implement standards for program quality, consistency, and innovation across all departments.
• Provide direction and guidance to programming staff, ensuring effective collaboration and resource allocation for program success.
• Oversee program schedules, logistics, and promotional strategies to maximize participation and engagement.
• Regularly review and analyze program performance, using data and feedback to make informed decisions and improvements.

2. Programming Development, Delivery, and Evaluation

• Actively participate in the hands-on creation and delivery of innovative and engaging library programs for all ages.
• Ensure programs are inclusive, accessible, and reflect community interests and demographics.
• Utilize outcome-based assessments and community feedback to evaluate program effectiveness and implement enhancements.
• Incorporate emerging trends and best practices into program development to maintain relevance and innovation.

3.  Collection Management

• Collaborate with various departments to assess and oversee collection management practices.
• Ensure collections align with community needs and strategic priorities, under the direction of the CEO.
• Work with staff to maintain a diverse and accessible collection that supports programming and library services.

4. Budget and Resource Accountability

• Oversee program-related budgets, ensuring cost-effective delivery and adherence to financial guidelines.
• Provide accurate financial reports to the Client Services Manager and collaborate on resource allocation.
• Pursue grant and sponsorship opportunities to enhance programming and collection development.

5. Community Engagement and Outreach

• Build strong partnerships with community organizations, schools, local businesses, and other stakeholders.
• Act as a visible advocate for the library by representing it at community events and fostering public awareness of library services.
• Actively incorporate community feedback and demographic trends into ongoing programming and collection development strategies.

6. Staff Leadership and Team Building

• Supervise, mentor, and support programming staff, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Promote professional development through training, coaching, and performance evaluations.
• Reviewing the schedule to ensure adequate coverage across all areas, addressing any potential gaps or conflicts to maintain operational efficiency.

7.  Administrative and Operational Support

• Maintain accurate records and statistics on program attendance, community engagement, and resource utilization.
• Contribute to grant writing, fundraising, and strategic initiatives in collaboration with the CEO.
• Assist with library-wide operations, including circulation or information desk support as required.

What do you need to bring to this position?

• A Master’s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or a related field is preferred. Other significant education/experience in related fields may be considered in lieu of the MLIS.
• Specialized certifications, training or experience in programming, community engagement, or collection management are assets.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in library programming, community engagement, or a related field.
• Demonstrated success in managing and delivering innovative programs and services in a public service environment.
• Strong hands-on program development and delivery skills with a focus on community-centered design.
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills to inspire teams and build community relationships.
• Proficiency in budget management, financial reporting, and strategic resource allocation.
• Knowledge of current trends in library programming, collection development, and public service best practices.
• Advanced proficiency in library management software, Microsoft Office Suite, and data analysis tools.
• Strong work ethic with the ability to work independently, under pressure and with keen attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to work effectively in a team environment and to exhibit courtesy, tact and diplomacy in dealing with the public, Town officials, Board members and other members of staff. Ability to adhere to confidentiality requirements at all times.
• Competence in prioritizing and managing multiple projects/deadlines.
• Ability to provide an acceptable current criminal reference check, with vulnerable sector clearance.
• Demonstrated commitment to continuous professional development.

Health & Safety Requirements

Library staff members are responsible:

• To be familiar with and practice Library-specific health & safety policies and procedures, as well as adopted related policies established by the Town of Bracebridge, and to provide a Police Record Name check as a condition of employment.
• To be familiar with and comply with the provisions of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations and achieve a Certificate of Completion for the Ministry of Labour Occupational Health and Safety awareness training.
• To take every possible precaution to protect themselves and fellow workers from health and safety hazards and unsafe situations.
• To report unsafe acts or conditions to their supervisor or the Library’s Health & Safety Representative or any contravention of the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
• To report any occupational injury or illness immediately to their supervisor.
• To use personal protective equipment, where required.

Physical Demands & Working Conditions

Hours: Full-time – 35 hours per week. Evening and weekend work will be required. 6-month contract, with the possibility of extension.

Physical: Requirement for sufficient physical ability and mobility to work in an office setting and in a field environment; to sit for prolonged periods of time; to routinely lift and move shipments in boxes up to 20 kg.; to operate office equipment requiring repetitive hand movement and fine coordination including use of a computer keyboard; to assemble minor furniture acquisitions.

Environment: Work is conducted in an office environment with some exposure to criticism from the public; close proximity to staff-used printer/fax/copier; frequent exposure to paper fibres and dust.

Requirement to juggle priorities, meet deadlines, verbally communicate to exchange information, and deal with constant interruptions and changing demands during the course of a working day. Work outside normal working hours may be required occasionally.

Supervision: CEO & Chief Librarian

The successful applicant will be a team player with good oral and written communication skills; able to perform light physical work, bend, reach, and lift up to 20 kg and have the ability to follow procedures with accuracy and speed. This position will include shift work plus coverage for vacations and sick times. Occupational Health and Safety awareness training from the Ministry of Labour and WHMIS training will be required. Details for completing both these programs at no cost will be provided to the successful candidate at the time of hire.

Compensation: $35.21 – $41.19 per hour commensurate with education/experience (under review). This is a full-time, 35 hour per week, contract position for up to 6 months, with the possibility of extension. Some evening and weekend work will be required. 

Please submit your cover letter and resume to:

Bracebridge Library
34 Salmon Avenue
Bracebridge, Ontario P1L 1C1

Attention: Crystal Bergstrome, CEO & Chief Librarian

Email: careers@bracebridgelibrary.ca

Review of resumes will begin on January 27th, 2025. The position will remain open until filled. We thank all who apply, however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls, please. All personal information is collected under the authority of the Municipal Act, S.O. 2001, c. 25 and will be used to determine employment eligibility. The Bracebridge Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to meeting its obligations under the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. Questions regarding the collection of information or accommodation should be directed to the Library CEO at 705-675-4171