About this role
About Kansas City, Kansas Public Library: Kansas City, Kansas Public Library (KCKPL) serves Wyandotte County, a community in Northeastern Kansas with a population of around 170,000, with five library branches and three mobile libraries. KCKPL was formed in 1893 and came under the authority of the Kansas City, Kansas Public School District Board of Education in 1899, where it remains today. The mission of Kansas City, Kansas Public Library is to connect members of a dynamic community with information, tools, resources, and welcoming spaces to enrich lives in Wyandotte County.
Job Goal: The Mobile Services Manager provides strategic leadership for the planning, development, operations, and growth of KCKPL's Mobile Services Department. This position oversees mobile, delivery-based, off-site, and community outreach services designed to expand access to library resources beyond traditional library locations. The manager develops responsive service strategies based on community needs, builds partnerships, and explores innovative approaches to reaching underserved and underrepresented populations throughout Wyandotte County.
Essential Functions:
• Direct and oversee the daily operations of the Mobile Services Department, including mobile, delivery-based, off-site, and community outreach services.
• Supervise, train, and evaluate staff; manage scheduling, workflow, and professional development.
• Set staff priorities and provide direction for departmental programs, outreach, and service activities.
• Develop and implement the strategic vision, goals, priorities, and procedures for mobile services in alignment with the library's mission and strategic plan.
• Lead the development and expansion of Mobile Services, identifying innovative and sustainable approaches to extending library access throughout the community.
• Manage the department's budget, purchasing, and resource allocation; monitor expenditures and ensure cost-effective operations.
• Ensure the maintenance, scheduling, and safety compliance of all mobile library vehicles and related equipment.
• Regularly participate in Mobile Services delivery, including driving of Library vehicles
• Assess community needs, service gaps, demographic trends, and service data to inform outreach strategies, service locations, partnerships, and future Mobile Services initiatives.
• Develop and coordinate outreach strategies that prioritize library resources and services based on identified community needs and organizational goals.
• Set department-wide programming themes, priorities, and direction in alignment with community needs and library goals.
• Serve as the department's embedded librarian, supporting outreach, community partnerships, and connections to library resources and services.
• Support library branch outreach through mobile services.
• Identify and coordinate outreach opportunities that support systemwide priorities and expand access to library services.
• Represent the library within the community, initiate partnerships, and participate in outreach activities.
• Oversee collection and materials handling for mobile services.
• Prepare reports, maintain service statistics, and evaluate the effectiveness and impact of Mobile Services programs, partnerships, routes, stops, and other service models to inform continuous improvement and future planning.
• Address patron and staff concerns; resolve conflicts and ensure adherence to library policies.
• Maintain knowledge of emerging trends, research, technologies, and best practices in mobile, outreach, and community-based library services.
• Serve on system-wide committees and projects as needed.
• Provide exemplary customer service and foster an inclusive, welcoming environment for all patrons and staff.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
• MLS degree, or current enrollment in an MLS program with anticipated completion within one year of hire.
• Minimum of three years of progressive library experience, including supervisory or management responsibility.
• Must be able to obtain a Class B CDL with passenger, airbrake, and school bus endorsements within the first 6 months of hire.
• Demonstrated leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
• Strong knowledge of library services, community outreach, and current trends in mobile and inclusive service delivery.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, analyze data, and implement process improvements.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in library technology, integrated library systems, and standard office software.
• Ability to lift up to 35 pounds and perform physical activities typical of mobile and outreach settings.
• Must provide own transportation for outreach and off-site responsibilities.
• Must be available to work evenings and weekends as needed.
• Commitment to the mission, values, and service goals of KCKPL.
Physical Demands: This position requires standing, walking, kneeling, and lifting up to 35 pounds. Work involves outdoor activities, operating large vehicles, and interacting with diverse community environments. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Work Environment: Work is performed in mobile vehicles, community settings, and office environments. Exposure to varying weather conditions, dust, and fluorescent lighting may occur. Noise levels are generally moderate. Flexibility and adaptability are required. Benefits: Vacation, disability, and personal days granted annually pursuant to KCKPS Board Policies, GARH – Absences, leave and vacation. Salary based on library classification and salary schedule. Placement on the schedule based on qualifications and experience. A willingness to work evenings, weekends, and extra duty as needed is a condition of employment.