Community Engagement Coordinator

About the Role

Coordinate the Library's efforts to identify, build, and maintain effective partnerships that enhance connections with and support for diverse audiences. Gather and analyze data to evaluate community needs. Serve as a liaison between departments, across the Library, and throughout Joliet in support of outreach efforts. Develop large-scale, all-ages programming and traveling exhibits focused on creating experiences that attract new audiences to the Library. Harness the multitude of public spaces at Ottawa Street, utilize the flexibility and grounds of the Black Road, and optimize use of the outreach van to create memorable experiences for the people of Joliet.

Responsibilities

• Community Engagement
  • Identify partnerships and opportunities to increase the Library's visibility.
  • Attend community partnership meetings to network, learn about other local initiatives, and promote the Library and its services.
  • Create and maintain productive relationships with key stakeholders to better meet community needs.
  • Identify outreach opportunities and coordinate staffing with all departments.
  • Manage use of the outreach vehicle with employees from across the Library.
  • Maintain a working list of partner organizations.
  • Assist in local advocacy efforts.
  • Explore the feasibility of homebound services and tailored outreach to adults.
• Events
  • Design and coordinate major programs, including large-scale in-house offerings and community events held outside of the Library.
  • Develop and oversee traveling exhibits that draw fresh faces to the Library.
  • Work with local artists to ensure thriving exhibitions and programming, including the Library's growing artist-in-residence program.
  • Develop schedules to guide the planning process for major events and exhibits.
  • Evaluate the impact of large-scale programs through outcome-based measures.
  • Participate in continuing education opportunities and networking meetings to enhance knowledge of interesting programs and potential exhibits.
  • Investigate and pursue grant funding and sponsorships.
• Additional Responsibilities
  • Serve as the Library's official liaison to the Friends and assist with book sales and other Friends' initiatives.
  • Oversee the scheduling of meeting rooms in both buildings for public use.
  • Oversee the scheduling of available public display cabinets and spaces.
  • Coordinate with the Communications Manager on marketing of special events.
  • Maintain a working knowledge of the Library's collection, programs, and services.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree required.
• Minimum of two years in event planning, programming, and exhibit development.
• Previous experience in a public library is a plus.
• Fluency in Spanish is highly desired.
• Ability to drive the Library's outreach van. Proof of insurance required.
• Ability to relate to patrons of all ages in a positive, patient, and effective manner.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships with co-workers.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Ability to utilize a computer and basic office equipment.
• Ability to meet the physical requirements of the position.
• Ability to work a variety of hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision.

Accountabilities

• Accountable for following the Library's policies.
• Accountable for enforcement of the Library's procedures and policies.
• Accountable for friendly and courteous interactions with patrons and staff.
• Accountable for completing work on time.