Responsibilities

• Works with Communications staff to develop communication plans for various library campaigns and communication strategies.
• Works with interdepartmental teams to undertake library communication projects to meet specific needs.
• Develops, implements, monitors, and maintains the library’s presence in all pertinent marketing venues, including social media.
• Works to support library staff with training and advice on media protocols.
• Manages library’s communications budgets.
• Stay current on library and community issues as well as new trends and innovations in the field of public information and community relations.
• Provides the Executive Director with support/information on issues of interest to the media.
• Assists Executive director, staff and Board of Trustees in responding to media inquiries and in promoting library events, services, and policies.
• Acts as the library’s official spokesperson with the media, representing the library in various forums. Respond to inquiries and concerns on behalf of the library.
• Formulates press releases and oversees production of the library newsletters.

Requirements

• Seven years of increasingly responsible media relations, public relations or journalism experience including three years of administrative and supervisory responsibilities
• Ability to arrive at locations throughout Mesa County to fulfill job expectations. Locations include, but are not limited to, library branches and external locations for outreach, programs, and classes
• Knowledge of communications, public relations and marketing principles and practices
• Knowledge of the techniques of graphics preparations, displays and visual aids
• Knowledge of effective supervisory and coaching techniques
• Knowledge of social media trends and other relevant computer technologies
• Skill in communicating effectively, orally and in writing, including meeting with small and large groups.
• Skill in writing media releases, blogs, columns, newsletters, information flyers, website content and letters.
• Skill in developing creative and informative approaches to patron participation, including gathering information through surveys and informal feedback.
• Skill in working under pressure of deadlines, maintaining a professional demeanor during stressful situations, and establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with employees, Board of Trustees, other agencies and the general public.

Benefits

• This full-time position includes a full benefits package including health, dental, vision, life, AD&D, and supplemental insurance coverages as well as HRA and retirement savings. Benefits include vacation and sick leave, and 12 paid holidays.