Director, TBBC chez New Jersey State Library / Talking Book and Braille Center (TBBC)

Director, Talking Book and Braille Center (TBBC)

D30: $125,000 – $135,000

New Jersey State Library/Talking Book and Braille Center

2300 Stuyvesant Avenue Trenton, NJ 08618

The New Jersey State Library, affiliated with Thomas Edison State University, connects people with information and resources through its service to New Jersey libraries, the state legislature and government employees, Thomas Edison State University staff and students, and registered borrowers. Thomas Edison State University provides distinctive undergraduate and graduate education for self-directed adults through flexible, high-quality, collegiate learning and assessment opportunities. One of New Jersey’s senior public institutions of higher education, the University offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in more than 100 areas of study. At Thomas Edison State University and the New Jersey State Library we embrace a diverse and dynamic workforce that drives innovation, learner success and organizational growth. We welcome you to apply to be a part of our team.

Position Summary:

Reporting to the State Librarian, the Director of the New Jersey Talking Book and Braille Center (TBBC),   provides leadership and direction for the state's regional library service affiliated with the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS), Library of Congress. This role is responsible for managing statewide delivery of accessible library services to individuals who are blind, visually impaired, physically disabled, or otherwise print-disabled. The Director ensures compliance with federal and state regulations, promotes equitable access to information, and oversees staff, operations, outreach, and partnerships with other agencies and organizations serving eligible residents across the state.

Key Responsibilities:

Program Leadership and Service Delivery

- Administer the state’s Braille and Talking Book Library program in accordance with NLS guidelines, state laws and policies, and federal standards.

- Direct daily operations, including circulation, reader advisory services, collection development, and outreach services.

- Ensure equitable access to materials in accessible formats (e.g., audio, Braille, large print, digital downloads).

Staff and Operational Oversight

- Supervise professional and support staff, including training, performance evaluations, and workload coordination.

- Manage volunteers and interns as applicable, fostering a mission-driven, inclusive, and customer-centered work environment.

Statewide Outreach and Stakeholder Engagement

- Develop and implement outreach strategies to reach underserved and eligible populations statewide.

- Collaborate with agencies and organizations serving individuals with disabilities, such as rehabilitation services, educational institutions, veteran affairs, and senior services.

- Represent the TBBC program at statewide meetings, advisory boards, and public forums.

Technology and Digital Services Management

- Promote and support the use of the BARD system and other digital platforms for accessible content delivery.

- Coordinate with New Jersey State Library IT and the NLS to implement and maintain adaptive technologies, data systems, and accessible catalog interfaces.

- Monitor technology trends to improve patron access and operational efficiency.

Administrative and Strategic Planning

- Develop and manage the TBBC budget, including federal, state, and grant funding.

- Prepare and submit annual reports, statistical data, and compliance documentation to NLS and state leadership.

- Contribute to strategic planning and continuous improvement initiatives at the agency level.

- Serve as primary liaison to the NJ Commission on the Blind and Visually Impaired for contracted services.

- Maintain awareness of national trends, legal requirements, and best practices in accessible library services.

Requirements:

- Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS/MLS) from an ALA-accredited institution.

- 7 years of library experience, which includes supervision.

- Knowledge of accessibility standards, assistive technologies, and disability rights legislation (e.g., ADA, Section 508).

- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.

- Demonstrated commitment to accessibility and equity in service delivery.

Preferred Requirements:

- Experience working in a talking book library or similar service for individuals with disabilities.

- Familiarity with NLS guidelines and services (including BARD and Duplication on Demand).

- Experience with outreach and partnerships at a state or regional level.

- Knowledge of Braille transcription or audio book production.  

The New Jersey State Library, an affiliate of Thomas Edison State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer