Assistant Library Director

Salary: $47,611.36 Annually
Location : 310 Keener Street -- Sylva, NC
Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Job Number: 20260130
Department: Library
Opening Date: 07/17/2026
Closing Date: 8/31/2026 5:00 PM Eastern
FLSA: Non-Exempt


Position Overview
This is a professional position that performs administrative and supervisory work assisting the County Librarian in the administration of the programs and operations of the county library system. This employee assumes the duties of the Library Director in her/his absence, may be assigned as a department supervisor in a public service or technical service area, and performs related work as apparent or assigned. Work involves frequent public contact and is accomplished in accordance with Jackson County Public Library policies, guidelines, and procedures. Work may involve driving a library vehicle. Work is performed under the general direction of the Library Director. Grade 24

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assists the Library Director in the management, supervision, and administration of the libraries within the County.
• Reviews and recommends training and development for library staff and volunteers.
• Ensures compliance with federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and codes, as well as all JCPL system policies and procedures.
• Maintains confidentiality and privacy of protected information.
• Keeps the Library Director informed on personnel issues as they affect the operations of the library.
• Coordinates the planning, delivery, and promotion of the county library through the development of marketing materials, use of social media, and community outreach.
• May oversee the development and delivery of public services at the county library.
• Provides specialized research assistance to patrons.
• May oversee collection development for the county library.
• May oversee technical services activities for the county library.
• Monitors ILS functions and daily operations
• Maintains and updates local system software settings.
• Works at a public services desk on a regular basis.
• Coordinates preparation of reports and statistics for county library service.
• Coordinates security and maintenance of the county library facility.
• Participates in preparation of county library system budget.
• Participates in local and regional fundraising activities.
• Collaborates with other departments to identify funding sources and develop and manage grants.
• Works collaboratively with the Library Director to bolster support for library service from local government and library boards.
• Works with local library support organizations to develop and maintain citizen interest and participation in the growth and development of the county libraries.
• Establishes and maintains viable relationships with community agencies and institutions; develops partnerships to enhance library system awareness and promote services.
• As a member of the regional supervisory team, participates in information sharing, leadership training and development, and tactical planning.
• As a member of the strategic planning committee, participates in planning, implementation, and evaluation of long and short-term goals and objectives.
• Supports organizational goals and objectives by participating in library system, community, and statewide collaborations.
• Maintains current knowledge of trends and innovations in the library field.
• May be required to perform work assignments concurrently.
• Responsible for maintaining a safe and secure working environment.
• May perform opening and closing procedures.
• Evening and weekend work required.
• Some travel required.

Education and Experience


Graduation from an accredited college or university with a degree in library science and considerable professional experience in library work including some managerial and supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Master's degree in library science from an accredited ALA library institution.
Licenses or Certifications :

• Possession of a valid, State of North Carolina driver license to operate a motor vehicle. Requirement exists at the time of hire and as a condition of continued employment.
• North Carolina Public Librarian Certification desirable.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of public library principles and practices.
• Thorough knowledge of library circulation, catalog, and Dewey Decimal Classification systems.
• Thorough knowledge of current reading trends and interests of diverse populations.
• Thorough knowledge of specific needs of service population.
• Knowledge of effective employee supervisory techniques and practices.
• Knowledge of marketing techniques.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local labor laws.
• Knowledge of leadership, motivation, team-building, and conflict resolution practices.
• Expertise in planning and organizing work, and handling interruptions.
• Ability to accurately count money.
• Ability to give attention to detail.
• Proficiency in effectively communicating orally and in writing.
• Ability to effectively work with diverse populations.
• Possess excellent interpersonal skills including tact, courtesy, and discretion.
• Ability to take direction.
• Ability to consistently use good judgment.
• Ability to work as a member of a team.
• Expertise in working independently and exercising initiative.
• Ability to work well under pressure.
• Proficiency in using a variety of library equipment and technology.
• Proficiency in effectively using various computer applications.

Statement of Equal Employment Opportunity
Jackson County recognizes its continued success in meeting the needs of its citizens requires the full and active participation of talented and committed individuals, regardless of their gender, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, disability or political affiliation. It is the policy of the County to foster, maintain, and promote equal opportunity by use of a systematic, consistent recruitment program, and to identify and attract the most qualified applicants for employment with the County. This policy is to be achieved by announcing all position vacancies, by evaluating all applicants using the same criteria, and by applying testing methods through the NC Career Works Office. Selection decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, disability, age, or sexual orientation.
Jackson County provides a robust offering of employee benefits including: employer paid medical and dental benefits, participation in the Local Governmental Employees' Retirement System, paid leave (vacation, sick, and holiday), Employee Clinic, Wellness program, and supplemental benefit offerings. A full overview of benefits is available at