Now Hiring: Retail Manager, Books For Friends

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Friends of Alameda Free Library (FAL) is seeking an experienced, community-minded part-time employee to serve as the Retail Manager for Books For Friends (BFF), the used bookshop located inside the Alameda Free Library (Library). FAL is a 50-year old nonprofit organization founded to ensure the stability and continuity of the Library. FAL advocacy and fundraising was critical to the construction of the now 20-year old Main Library, located at 1550 Oak Street. FAL supports programming and other Library needs and initiatives requested by the Library Director.

Books For Friends opened in March 2022 as a collaboration between FAL and the Library. Books, donated by the community, are curated for the shop and the selections are offered to the public with the intention of selling quality books at great prices. Net proceeds are used to support FAL’s mission: to raise funds and advocate for the success of the Alameda Free Library. This is a newly created paid position to help forward growth and revenue. The Manager will oversee day-to-day retail operations and the volunteers who staff it. The Manager should have significant retail experience and a genuine enthusiasm for libraries, independent bookshops and/or consignment retail models. BFF is open Wednesdays through Saturdays and follows library closures as needed.

This position will report to the FAL Executive Director and is expected to work collaboratively with a pre-existing Book Sale Committee and volunteers.

Responsibilities:

  • Be a presence in Books For Friends and represent the shop to the larger community
  • Take responsibility for the physical shop
    • Prepare for retail week
    • Maintain the shop’s physical space and appearance
    • Monitor and procure shop supplies
    • Frequent engagement via written and verbal communication
  • Interact with Library staff and FAL leadership as needed
  • Lead a minimum of two full shop days and be available to volunteers during regular shop hours
  • Form positive and productive relationships with Books For Friends’ volunteers
  • Screen, onboard, develop and train volunteers
  • Prepare shop financial reports
  • Handle cash, reconcile daily sales and complete bank deposits
  • POS competency and management; experience with Square preferred

Interested applicants please send a brief cover letter and resume to director@alamedafriends.com. Due to the high volume of applications, Friends of the Alameda Free Library will only contact applicants shortlisted for an interview.

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