Assistant Director of Library Services

Job Summary

The successful candidate will possess a master's degree in library and/or information science from a graduate program accredited by the American Library Association (ALA); possession of, or ability to obtain prior to employment, a Librarian's Professional Certificate issued by the Library of Virginia; five years of progressive professional experience in administration, operations, or organizational leadership within a medium-to-large public library system, including experience functioning in a chief-of-staff–style capacity—anticipating challenges, coordinating resources, supporting executive decision-making, and resolving issues before they escalate; at least four years of experience in managerial/supervisory roles in a library setting (public library experience preferred), demonstrating the ability to integrate cross-departmental work, manage complex projects, and ensure system alignment; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Responsibilities

• Operate as the first level of response for staffing issues, building concerns, and patron feedback, ensuring timely resolution and communication with the Library Director.
• Oversee the operational management of the library system, including planning, scheduling, public services, facilities, administration, and development of services and programs across 10 branch locations in partnership with department managers.
• Maintain compliance with applicable laws, codes, policies, regulations, and ethical standards.
• Directly supervise assigned management and administrative personnel, including oversight of planning, reporting, budgeting, performance evaluation, and departmental priorities.
• Provide leadership, guidance, and professional development to staff to promote a positive, productive, and collaborative work environment.
• Lead and motivate teams to ensure optimal allocation of resources and effective delivery of library services.
• Support the Management Team in promoting communication, consistency, and collaboration across departments.
• Assist the Library Director in coordinating the goals and activities of management staff and implementing the Library’s Strategic Plan, mission, and vision.
• Contribute to the development, implementation, and evaluation of policies, long-range plans, services, and new initiatives.
• Oversee tracking, analysis, and reporting of library usage metrics to support planning and decision-making.
• Aid in the preparation of annual budget, financial oversight, and resource allocation to ensure responsible use of library funds.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and communications for the Library Director, County Administrator, and Board of Supervisors.
• Lead and coordinate special projects, ensuring timely and cost-effective execution.
• Support data collection and analysis to evaluate library programs, services, and community impact.
• Aid in grant identification, proposal development, fundraising efforts, and resource-securing initiatives.
• Represent the library on county and community committees, serving as liaison to county and community partners to promote the Library’s initiatives.
• Manage key relationships and partnerships, including Friends of the Library, Chesterfield County Public Schools, and other community organizations.
• Coordinate and attend meetings with staff, government representatives, and community groups.
• Perform the duties of the Library Director in their absence, ensuring continuity of operations, services, and decision-making.

Requirements

Considerable knowledge of current library science principles, practices, and procedures.
Strong understanding of management practices, including personnel administration, budgeting, grants administration, and strategic program planning.
Solid working knowledge of project management, data analysis, and outcome measurement within a public library environment.
Demonstrated ability to lead and coordinate service operations and staff, supported by strong administrative and leadership skills.
Excellent oral and written communication skills, including effective public speaking and presentation abilities.
Prominent ability to develop and sustain strong community relationships and partnerships.
Ability to interpret, apply, and communicate approved library policies and procedures, and implementation of the Chesterfield Public Library strategic approach.
Maintain current knowledge of programs, products and services related to systems, technologies, libraries, business, and national and local news events.
Commitment to exceptional customer service and to fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and supportive work environment while exercising sound judgment, effective conflict resolution, strong decision-making, and resourcefulness.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will be a strategic integrator and chief-of-staff–style leader who ensures system operations run smoothly by resolving issues proactively before they reach the Library Director. A collaborative, people-centered leader who promotes communication, accountability, and consistent systemwide practices. An experienced operational administrator who can coordinate complex workflows and mobilize staff and resources across multiple locations. A strong systems thinker who can translate high-level direction from the Library Director into actionable operational plans. A proactive problem-solver who anticipates challenges, identifies root causes, and implements solutions that strengthen overall system performance. An advocate for staff development, coaching, communication, and leadership growth across all departments. A champion of customer experience and community-centered services, with an understanding of how operations shape service outcomes. A relationship builder skilled at collaborating with county partners, schools, Friends groups, and other stakeholders.

Skills

Knowledge of current library science principles, practices, and procedures.
Strong understanding of management practices, including personnel administration, budgeting, grants administration, and strategic program planning.
Solid working knowledge of project management, data analysis, and outcome measurement within a public library environment.
Demonstrated ability to lead and coordinate service operations and staff, supported by strong administrative and leadership skills.
Excellent oral and written communication skills, including effective public speaking and presentation abilities.
Prominent ability to develop and sustain strong community relationships and partnerships.
Ability to interpret, apply, and communicate approved library policies and procedures, and implementation of the Chesterfield Public Library strategic approach.
Maintain current knowledge of programs, products and services related to systems, technologies, libraries, business, and national and local news events.
Commitment to exceptional customer service and to fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and supportive work environment while exercising sound judgment, effective conflict resolution, strong decision-making, and resourcefulness.

Benefits

Commensurate with experience.

Pay

$98,506.00 - $132,982.00 Annually

Schedule

Monday - Friday; 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; includes some evenings and weekends

Location

Chesterfield, VA