ILS Administrator

The Finger Lakes Library System (FLLS) is accepting applications for the position of Integrated Library System (ILS) Administrator. FLLS seeks a collaborative, innovative, and service-oriented professional to lead the administration, development, and support of our shared Integrated Library System (ILS) and library catalog serving 33 member libraries across five counties.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working with library staff, developing training and documentation, improving workflows, solving problems, and helping libraries to better serve their communities.

About FLLS and Ithaca

The Finger Lakes Library System is a New York State chartered, cooperative public library system serving 33 mostly small and rural public libraries. The System's mission is to stimulate, coordinate, and strengthen library and information services in Cayuga, Cortland, Seneca, Tioga, and Tompkins Counties through leadership, education, resource sharing, technology support, advocacy, and a wide variety of consulting and support services for member libraries.

FLLS currently has 11 staff members and operates from a modern, renovated headquarters in Ithaca, New York.

Ithaca is a vibrant small city known for its spectacular waterfalls, scenic trails, thriving arts and cultural community, outstanding restaurants, Cornell University, Ithaca College, and proximity to the Finger Lakes wine region. Ithaca is consistently recognized as one of the best college towns in the United States.

Position Summary

The Integrated Library System (ILS) Administrator is responsible for the administration, coordination, support, and development of the Finger Lakes Library System's Integrated Library System (ILS) and shared library catalog. The position serves as a leader for consortium-wide library automation services, working collaboratively with member libraries to ensure effective use of the ILS, promote best practices, and support consistent policies and procedures across the consortium.

The ILS Administrator provides leadership in training, documentation, policy development, troubleshooting, and strategic planning related to the shared catalog and integrated library services. The position works closely with member library staff, consortium committees, and vendors to enhance library services and improve the user experience for both staff and patrons.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Administer and support the System's Integrated Library System (ILS) and shared catalog.
• Serve as the primary liaison with the ILS vendor and coordinate system updates, enhancements, testing, and issue resolution.
• Develop, recommend, and implement ILS policies, procedures, workflows, and best practices in collaboration with member libraries and consortium committees.
• Provide leadership and guidance to member libraries regarding circulation, patron records, reporting, catalog functions, and other ILS-related services.
• Design and conduct training for library staff, including onboarding, refresher training, workshops, and one-on-one instruction.
• Create and maintain user guides, documentation, procedural manuals, and training materials.
• Support member libraries in the effective use of the shared catalog and related library automation tools.
• Monitor and maintain the accuracy, integrity, and consistency of bibliographic and patron data within the ILS.
• Generate reports and analyze data to support library operations, planning, and decision-making.
• Communicate system updates, enhancements, policy changes, and procedural information to member libraries.
• Attend and support meetings of the Finger Lakes Automated Library Consortium (FALCONS) and encourage member participation and collaboration.
• Troubleshoot ILS-related issues and coordinate solutions with vendors, member libraries, and System staff.
• Assist with member library technology support requests through the System's ticketing process.
• Research emerging trends and best practices in library automation and integrated library systems.
• Collaborate with Library System staff on strategic initiatives, technology projects, and resource-sharing services.
• Participate in professional development activities and maintain awareness of developments in public libraries and library technology.
• Travel throughout the System's five-county service area as needed.

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of Windows operating systems, applications, and utilities.
• Knowledge of information and telecommunications technologies, local and wide-area networks, internet services, PC-based applications, and computer security.
• Knowledge of public library operations and resource-sharing environments.
• Ability to provide effective training and instruction to library staff with varying levels of technical expertise.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong organizational, analytical, problem-solving, and customer service skills.
• Ability to build collaborative relationships with library staff, administrators, trustees, consortium members, and vendors.
• Ability to communicate effectively in meetings, presentations, and training environments.
• Experience developing policies, procedures, and documentation.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Commitment to responsive member service and continuous improvement.

Education and Experience

• Master of Library Science (MLS), Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS), or equivalent degree from an ALA-accredited institution preferred. A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field may also be considered.
• Experience working in a public library, library system, or library consortium environment preferred.
• Experience with integrated library systems and library automation services preferred.
• Experience providing training, support, and project coordination preferred.
• Supervisory or leadership experience preferred.
• Valid New York State Driver's License required.

Salary, Benefits, and Hours

Salary: $75,000–$80,000, dependent upon qualifications.

Benefits include:

• New York State Retirement System
• Health insurance
• Generous paid time off package, including five weeks of vacation
• Professional development opportunities
• Competitive employee benefits package

This is a full-time, exempt position working 35 hours per week. Some evening and weekend hours may be required for training, meetings, and consortium activities.

The position reports directly to the Executive Director.