Massachusetts Public Library Trustees Handbook

Selecting a Search Committee

Who should be involved in the search, interviewing process, selection of final candidates? A committee structure representing the full board is the most effective means of hiring a new director. Other members of the board may have the opportunity to meet the candidates informally and tour the library with them. In addition to trustees, consider others who may serve on the search and interview committee. For example:

Advertising

It is essential to advertise a job opening to as many potential candidates as possible. Conduct a search even if there are staff members eligible for promotion. Qualified staff members should be encouraged to apply and the board should stress that the goal is to select the best person for the job. All applicants should receive consideration and due process in accordance with equal opportunity laws.

A search committee of the board should compose a carefully worded ad for selected publications. Reading ads published by other libraries will serve as a guide for your ad based on the job description for library director. Be sure to specify a deadline for application and request a resume and references. The committee should designate one member to receive applications.

You may choose to advertise in newspapers, and among friends and colleagues to spread the news of an available position. Send announcements to neighboring library systems and throughout the state. Take advantage of state and region-wide free advertising resources by contacting the MBLC and regional library systems for placing postings on their web sites and in their newsletters. You may also contact professional library associations such as Massachusetts Library Association and New England Library Association, and the Simmons College Graduate School of Library and Information Science job information line.