Executive Director

Jefferson County Public Library (JCPL) is a vibrant public library system serving communities across Jefferson County through welcoming spaces, responsive services, strong collections, technology access, lifelong learning opportunities, and programs that connect residents with ideas, resources, and one another. In 2025, JCPL welcomed 1,983,456 library visitors, supported nearly 140,000 active cardholders, offered 7,899 programs, completed 749 community outreach visits, and reached total collection use of 10,256,038. The Library continues to expand access through new and redesigned spaces, mobile and delivery services, digital resources, technology support, Spanish-language programming, and partnerships that strengthen community connection throughout Jefferson County.

About the role

The Executive Director will be a visible and effective public library leader with sound judgment, political awareness, strong communication skills, and a deep commitment to public service. They will bring experience leading complex organizations, working effectively with governing boards and public officials, supporting staff through multiple layers of leadership, and fostering a positive, collaborative, accountable, and team-oriented organizational culture.

Jefferson County offers the best of Colorado’s Front Range, with foothill communities, historic downtowns, abundant open space, and easy access to Denver. Residents enjoy more than 58,000 acres of preserved open space and 275 miles of trails, along with standout cultural, scientific, and historic destinations including Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, Dinosaur Ridge, the Colorado Railroad Museum, the Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum, and the American Mountaineering Museum.

Responsibilities

• Advance JCPL’s mission, vision, values, and long-range goals
• Support the Board’s governance and policy work
• Lead strategic planning and implementation
• Oversee the annual budget, capital planning, contracts, facilities, technology, collections, programs, and services
• Directly supervise the Senior Management Team
• Serve as a visible spokesperson and advocate for the Library with residents, partners, public officials, the media, and the broader library profession

Requirements

Minimum qualifications:

• Master’s degree in public administration, business administration, information systems, or a related field
• 8+ years of progressively responsible leadership experience, including at least 5 years supervising managers or senior staff in a library system

Preferred qualifications:

• Master’s degree in library and information science from an ALA-accredited program
• 8+ years of progressively responsible leadership experience in a library system, including at least 5 years of supervising managers or senior staff
• Multi-location leadership experience
• Experience overseeing an organizational budget
• Administrative experience in a public library
• Experience working in a unionized environment
• Experience reporting to a governing board
• Work with elected officials

Pay

The hiring salary range is $170,000 – $195,000, with placement negotiable depending on experience and qualifications.

Benefits

An excellent fringe benefits package is included.