Library Services Manager

About the role

The San Mateo County Libraries is seeking experienced and passionate leaders to join its award-winning organization. Ideal candidates will have a background and training in communications, marketing and branding, or community programming and outreach, with at least five years of increasingly responsible experience, including two years in a supervisory or management capacity. A Master’s degree in public administration, communications, library and information science, education, business administration, or a related field is preferred, along with bilingual or multilingual skills and experience in public libraries or related community-serving organizations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and collaborate with fellow managers and staff across the system to guide public services and advance library-wide priorities.

• Build and lead a high-performing, adaptable team fostering a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and innovation.

• Inspire staff to embrace a growth mindset, take smart risks, and think creatively to deliver outstanding service.

• Cultivate strong, collaborative relationships with community partners and stakeholders across the County.

• Develop and manage budgets and grants, ensuring responsible stewardship of resources.

• Represent the Library in community partnerships, the Peninsula Library System consortia, and internal committees with professionalism and purpose.

• Lead the development of responsive policies and guide staff through change with clarity and empathy.

• Use a collaborative, solution-oriented approach to problem-solving and decision-making.

• Stay current on trends and emerging technologies, applying best practices and creative thinking to meet evolving community needs.

• Communicate clearly and effectively - whether presenting ideas, writing reports, or engaging with diverse audiences.

Requirements

The ideal candidate should be energized by new challenges, driven to make a difference, and skilled at communicating across a wider range of backgrounds and perspectives. They are someone who leads with empathy, builds strong relationships, and sees change as an opportunity to grow.

Qualifications

• A typical way to qualify is a background and training in communications, marketing and branding, or in community programming and outreach, with at least five years of increasingly responsible experience, including two years in a supervisory or management capacity.
• A Master’s degree from an accredited college or university with coursework in public administration, communications, library and information science, education, business administration, or a related field.
• Bilingual or multilingual skills, as well as experience in public libraries or related community-serving organizations, are desirable.

Benefits

San Mateo County Libraries offers a competitive compensation package, including health insurance, retirement benefits, and paid time off.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $85,000 - $105,000 annually, depending on qualifications and experience.

Schedule

This position is full-time and works a standard 40-hour workweek.