Interim Executive Director

The Timberland Regional Library (TRL) is seeking an experienced, high-energy Interim Executive Director to lead the district through a transition in leadership and a possible levy lid lift. Under direct supervision of the TRL Board of Trustees, the Interim Executive Director acts as the dynamic face of the Library. This temporary position will provide leadership, support and guidance during the transition period until a regular Executive Director is appointed.

Throughout their tenure, they will foster strong connections with our diverse communities, promote and support TRL’s programs and projects, and oversee the implementation of TRL’s strategic direction. In collaboration with the Leadership team, the Interim Executive Director will communicate big picture ideas, model and uphold TRL’s values, and advocate for the effective utilization of TRL resources.

Salary Range: $13,333–$17,500 per month (dependent upon qualification), with benefits. Duration of Tenure: six to twelve months.

Application Requirements

• Resume
• Letter of Interest
• Written response to the supplemental question: “How would you prepare TRL for their next regular Executive Director?”

Initial consideration will be given to applicants whose materials are received by noon, Friday, 4/10/2026 . Virtual interviews are tentatively planned for 4/18/2026. Before hire, the candidate must successfully pass a background check, credit check, and reference check.

Responsibilities

• Develops and directs strategies to meet library goals and objectives; demonstrates a strong commitment to the delivery of quality library services.
• Promotes library programming within the community, delivers high-quality presentations to relevant groups, and garners public support and feedback on library services.
• Ensures that TRL continues to meet the needs of our diverse and sizable library service area by regularly communicating with key community groups, public service organizations, and public officials.
• Oversees the preparation of board packets including information on the expenditure of resources, budget and funds, operational updates, and general updates on current library services and programs.
• As TRL’s lead visionary, works with the Board as well as the leadership team to evaluate the organization to foster continuous improvement of programs, services, projects, and initiatives.
• Delegates operational and administrative-level tasks to the appropriate department.
• Reviews and approves new procedures or changes to current procedures; initiates the review and development of new policies in collaboration with the Board of Trustees.
• Reviews and approves grant applications and staffing levels for the district.

Core Skills and Qualities

• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal staff, outside organizations, and the general public.
• Positively reflect TRL’s mission, vision, and values to the staff and public.
• Effective organizational and time management skills, including the ability to multitask, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Demonstrate quality customer service.
• Exhibit reliability and dependability; demonstrate punctuality and regular, consistent attendance.
• Demonstrate a positive attitude and flexibility.
• Work well with others, show respect, and contribute to the team.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain positive relationships with managers, employees, patrons, Friends groups and the public.
• Ability to review, analyze, and interpret reports, business correspondence, governmental regulations, and procedural manuals.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to establish priorities and organize workload; strong delegation skills.
• Strategic short‑range and long‑range planning.

Desired Experience

• Managing a community library or other government or school entity of similar size and budget operations in various library environments (including medium and large libraries); and/or
• Operating a wide-ranging multi‑million‑dollar organization in rural areas; and/or
• Working successfully with public‑sector unions and collective bargaining agreements; and/or
• Organizing a public levy vote, especially a library district’s levy lid lift; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Desired Education

• Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science; or
• Master’s Degree in Public Administration; or
• Master’s Degree in Business Administration; and/or
• CPA or other financial/accounting experience/certification.

Licenses, Certifications, and Special Requirements

• A state Librarian Certification (for Washington or another state) is desired but not required for this position.
• Must pass and maintain a criminal background check and credit check.
• Must have a valid Washington State driver's license and an acceptable driving record.

Technology Requirements

• Strong computer skills in a Windows-based environment.
• Library technology, resources, databases, and software.
• Microsoft Office Suite skills (e.g., Outlook, Word, SharePoint, Teams).

Physical and Environmental Conditions

• Work is performed in a busy, service‑oriented office with frequent interruptions and under the stress of continual pressure to meet deadlines and handle competing priorities.
• Travel is required to attend meetings at other sites and locations, or to participate in work‑related assignments.

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