How to Become a Library Services Manager

Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Library Services Manager

What does a Library Services Manager do?

A Library Services Manager manages the daily planning, staff, and operations for the acquisition, classification, maintenance, licensing, and distribution of print and digital materials to meet the information needs of library users. Coordinates process to research, review, identify and procure new materials to develop the library's collection. Being a Library Services Manager performs cataloging and creates bibliographies and metadata to classify the library's collection of books, serial publications, documents, audiovisual, and other materials. Develops and oversees support, service, and technology resources to ensure that groups and individuals can access requested materials. Additionally, Library Services Manager requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a director. The Library Services Manager manages subordinate staff in the day-to-day performance of their jobs. True first level manager. Ensures that project/department milestones/goals are met and adhering to approved budgets. Has full authority for personnel actions. To be a Library Services Manager typically requires 5 years experience in the related area as an individual contributor. 1 - 3 years supervisory experience may be required. Extensive knowledge of the function and department processes.

People's Opinions on Library Services Manager responsibilities

They’re great for networking, building your resume, and learning on the job (because there is SO MUCH they don’t teach you in library school, because there are so many specializations within the field.

11/30/2019: Green Bay, WI

The library here is within the hospital and will shortly be reconfigured as part of a project to increase clinical ward space.

12/02/2019: Houston, TX

Akin to a swan, everything works fairly smoothly, whilst underneath we are badgering away to conquer the challenges of a very complex funding model (which is even worse since the demise of ring-fencing for NHS library services) and the limitations/frustrations of IT.

02/08/2020: Lorain, OH

We have purchased iPads and other “alternative platforms” so that we can ensure our staff know how to assist our users and also that our services work in the places our users want them to.

01/12/2020: Terre Haute, IN

The Technical Services Manager has primary responsibility for the coordination of library acquisitions, budgeting, planning and cataloging the library collection, developing an inter-library loan program and maintaining all on-line research services.

02/20/2020: Beaumont, TX
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Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Library Services Manager

Best tips for those who want to become a Library Services Manager

Here are some tips to become a Library Services Manager.

People's Opinions on best tips

Define your CSI goals and strategy.

02/14/2020: Buffalo, NY

Gather the data needed for continual service improvement.

01/15/2020: Tacoma, WA

Analyze the information in the context of continual service improvement.

12/18/2019: Spartanburg, SC

Present and use the information in a meaningful way.

12/10/2019: Pocatello, ID

Implement continual service improvement.

11/30/2019: Chattanooga, TN
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Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Library Services Manager

Best colleges and universities for Library Services Manager

  • Butler University
  • Carroll College
  • High Point University
  • Princeton University
  • Providence College
  • Rollins College

Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Library Services Manager

Is being a Library Services Manager Worth it?

People's Opinions on lifestyles

After five years of working at the Milpitas Library, in early December, community librarian Stephen Fitzgerald moved on to work as Library Services Manager in the literary services department for the Santa Clara County Library District.

02/06/2020: Casper, WY

They’re great for networking, building your resume, and learning on the job (because there is SO MUCH they don’t teach you in library school, because there are so many specializations within the field.

02/04/2020: Tuscaloosa, AL

The Library’s mission is focused to achieve this through the ongoing development of library and archival collections in print and digital forms; with the university’s own digital content, especially its research output; and with delivering access to this material as easily, as pervasively and as efficiently as possible.

02/13/2020: Portsmouth, NH

The Brynmor Jones Library is at the heart of the academic life of the University and attracts several thousand students, staff and external users every day.

02/05/2020: Los Angeles, CA

Key to the effective delivery of the Library’s services is the use of technology, both through the specific systems that are used to manage the Library’s collections and the exploitation of general purpose technologies to embed the Library in other environments.

12/09/2019: New Brunswick, NJ
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Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Library Services Manager

What skills do you need to be a Library Services Manager?

In order to drive yourself and your team to success, in a management position you need to have a broad base of skills.  For success in this position, you effeciency with these skills is key: Document Archiving, Licensing Management, Project Management, Information Curation, Cataloging Schemas, Rules and Systems, Create Metadata Records, Library Cataloging, Metadata Standards, Cataloging Special Collections.  For this role, you will need to be adept in with: Library Management Software.  Although every company varies in their requirements, these competencies will help you in this role.

People's Opinions on Library Services Manager skills

The application of significant expertise in a rapidly evolving environment in the area of library customer service including circulation, reference and information services is required.

12/10/2019: Las Cruces, NM

Knowledge of other library functions and duties such as database maintenance, bibliographic control, interlibrary loan, collection maintenance and preservation, and website/resource maintenance may also be required.

12/18/2019: Binghamton, NY

Bachelor’s Degree and three years of progressively responsible full-time library experience; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

12/25/2019: Tallahassee, FL

Demonstrated knowledge of basic library practices and procedures, including Sierra and music reference sources.

12/25/2019: New London, CT

Experience in developing and implementing public services policies.

12/24/2019: Birmingham, AL
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Step 6: View average salary for Library Services Manager

How much does a Library Services Manager make?

The average salary range for a Library Services Manager is from $92,849 to $126,471. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.

Salary range for a Library Services Manager
$92,849 to $126,471

Step 7: Find relevant Library Services Manager jobs, and apply.

Looking for Library Services Manager jobs?

Here are some Library Services Manager jobs in the United States.

Search Library Services Manager Jobs in the United States

Step 8: Explore Career Path of Library Services Manager

Step 8: Explore Career Path of Library Services Manager? Library Services Manager