Abrar Admin

Chester County Library System

<div><div><div>Library Director &ndash; West Chester Public Library (PA)
The West Chester Public Library seeks an innovative, collaborative, and community-centered
leader to serve as its next Library Director. Located in the heart of historic West Chester
Borough, the Library serves a vibrant and diverse community that includes the borough and
surrounding townships. West Chester offers a unique blend of small-town charm, cultural
activity, and proximity to major metropolitan areas, with Philadelphia and Wilmington easily
accessible.
A member of the Chester County Library System, the West Chester Public Library is dedicated
to celebrating ideas, promoting creativity, connecting people, and enriching lives. Housed in a
historic building with an extensive collection, the Library is a cornerstone of the community.
Position Overview
The Library Director is the Library&rsquo;s chief administrative and executive officer, responsible for
the overall leadership, management, and strategic direction of the organization. Reporting to and
working in close partnership with an engaged Board of Trustees, the Director oversees library
operations, staff, services, and community engagement while advancing the Library&rsquo;s mission
and long-term sustainability.
The Director leads a staff of approximately 20 employees, 2 of which are full-time, and
coordinates the work of volunteers. This position requires strong judgment, discretion, and the
ability to balance strategic leadership with operational oversight.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership &amp; Governance
<ul><li>Partner with the Board of Trustees to advance the Library&rsquo;s mission, vision, and strategic
</li></ul>goals
<ul><li>Support the Board in policy development, organizational planning, and evaluation of
</li></ul>library performance and effectiveness
<ul><li>Prepare written and verbal reports for the Board and attend Board and committee
</li></ul>meetings
<ul><li>Provide professional guidance to the Board on library trends, community needs, and best
</li></ul>practices
Operations &amp; Administration
<ul><li>Oversee key operational areas, including finance, facilities, information technology,
</li></ul>personnel, marketing, fundraising, and public services
<ul><li>Ensure effective planning, implementation, and evaluation of library services and
</li></ul>programs
</div></div><div><div><ul><li>Manage budgets and financial controls in coordination with the Board, Treasurer, and
</li></ul>external partners as appropriate
<ul><li>Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards
</li></ul>Fundraising &amp; Financial Sustainability
<ul><li>Work collaboratively with the Board of Trustees, Development Committee, and staff to
</li></ul>support annual and long-term fundraising efforts
<ul><li>Assist with identifying and pursuing grant opportunities at the local, state, and national
</li></ul>levels
<ul><li>Meet with new and existing donors to build relationships, understand their motivation,
</li></ul>solicit support and steward their giving
<ul><li>Attend service area municipality meetings on a regular basis to report on library funding,
</li></ul>activities and needs and to identify opportunities for collaboration and additional support
<ul><li>Support the successful implementation of library campaigns, including those supporting
</li></ul>interior renovations, retirement of the mortgage, and long-term resource stewardship
Community Engagement &amp; Advocacy
<ul><li>Serve as the Library&rsquo;s primary ambassador and advocate with community partners,
</li></ul>government agencies, elected officials, and stakeholders
<ul><li>Promote the Library&rsquo;s value, services, and impact through outreach, partnerships, and
</li></ul>public engagement
<ul><li>Strengthen formal and informal relationships with local officials, local businesses and
</li></ul>community organizations
<ul><li>Represent the Library within the Chester County Library System and broader
</li></ul>professional networks, including attendance at all regularly scheduled System meetings
Staff Leadership &amp; Organizational Culture
<ul><li>Lead, mentor, and support staff through collaborative leadership, delegation, and
</li></ul>professional development
<ul><li>Foster a positive, inclusive, and service-oriented organizational culture
</li></ul><ul><li>Encourage innovation and responsiveness in services, programming, and use of
</li></ul>technology
<ul><li>Support a culture of continuous learning for staff and the organization
</li></ul>Required Qualifications:
<ul><li>Master&rsquo;s degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited institution
</li></ul></div></div><div><div><ul><li>Pennsylvania Public Library Professional Certification or ability to obtain
</li></ul><ul><li>Minimum of five (5) years of progressive leadership experience, including staff
</li></ul>supervision and organizational planning
<ul><li>Demonstrated experience working with boards, community partners, and diverse
</li></ul>stakeholders
<ul><li>Strong written and verbal communication skills
</li></ul><ul><li>Successful completion of required background checks (FBI, PA Criminal, PA Child
</li></ul>Abuse)
Preferred Qualifications:
<ul><li>Experience in public library administration or nonprofit leadership
</li></ul><ul><li>Fundraising and development experience
</li></ul><ul><li>Demonstrated ability to build partnerships and advocate effectively for public services
</li></ul><ul><li>Experience in overseeing financial reporting and budgeting
</li></ul>Work Expectations
<ul><li>Full-time position (40 hours per week)
</li></ul><ul><li>Evening and weekend hours as required for meetings and community events
</li></ul><ul><li>On-site presence required; limited remote work opportunity
</li></ul><ul><li>Ability to travel to meetings, trainings, and government sessions as needed
</li></ul>Additional Information
This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties and responsibilities.
Additional tasks may be assigned as organizational needs evolve.
West Chester Public Library is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a
diverse and inclusive workplace.
Application Instructions:
 
Please submit a resume and cover letter to:
Board of the West Chester Public Library, wcpubliclibraryboard@gmail.com
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.</div></div></div>

Library Director – West Chester Library

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Library Director – West Chester Library