Kalamazoo Public Library is hiring: Bookstore Manager - Friends of Kalamazoo Pub

Bookstore Manager - Friends of Kalamazoo Public Library

Part-time Bookstore Manager at Friends of the Kalamazoo Public Library.

Job Purpose

The fundamental mission of the Bookstore Manager is to facilitate the sale of the store inventory in a cost‑effective manner and work with the Board to maintain an adequate pool of volunteers.

Benefits

• Paid time off
• Flexible schedule
• Paid parking
• Complimentary book allowance
• Congenial atmosphere
• Opportunity to contribute to community literacy

Reports To

The Bookstore Committee Chair, who reports to the Board. Coordinates with the Office Manager.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Coordinating the day‑to‑day bookstore operations, including opening, closing, stocking, pricing, weeding, organizing the store and offering customer service.
• Coordinating backroom and donation operations, which includes sorting and storing of inventory plus maintaining backroom and garage spaces.
• Supervising and communicating with volunteers regarding desk shift schedules, bookstore support roles, donations, health and safety requirements and training.
• Recruiting, interviewing and selecting new volunteers in a timely manner.
• Collaborating with the Bookstore Committee in sales promotions, inventory management and daily operations of the bookstore.
• Collaborating with the Publicity Committee in organizing and supervising special sales.
• Writing “Weekly Specials and News” for the website and e‑mail blasts.
• Communicating with KPL Director and Head of Facilities Management regarding compliance with KPL health and safety standards, emergency procedures and donation regulations.
• Managing store and online sales, returns and refunds.
• Making occasional trips to the post office.

Required Skills

• Skill in organizing and record keeping
• Skill in working with volunteers and the public
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally, both orally and in writing
• Facility in current applicable technology
• Skill in training staff and volunteers

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Physical demands

• While performing the duties of this position, the employee may need to move throughout the office, store and storage spaces of the Bookstore. The role involves communicating with others in person and in writing; positioning oneself to access materials or equipment; operating standard tools or controls; and occasionally moving or transporting items up to approximately 25 pounds. The position may involve periods of sitting, standing, or walking for extended durations. Visual requirements include the ability to focus on detailed work and materials.

Work environment

• Work will be performed in a retail environment. The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required. Associate Degree or more preferred.
• Willingness to accept flexible scheduling required.
• Prior supervisory and retail sales experience preferred.
• Experience in working with volunteers preferred.

Salary and Schedule

Salary: $15.00 an hour; starting wage.
Schedule: 20 hours weekly; flexible.

Application

A completed application, resume, cover letter, and references are required for consideration.
Applications will be accepted through November 28, 2025.

Seniority Level

• Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type

• Part‑time

Job Function

• Administrative
• Libraries