Deputy Director

JOB SUMMARY

Under general direction, the Deputy Director oversees public services and daily operations of the library system. This position serves as a key advisor to the Director, acts as Director in their absence, assists the Director with the administration of the system, and provides leadership in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of library services, programs, and policies.

The Deputy Director models respect, teamwork, appreciation, accountability, and trust. The position supervises staff, fosters innovation, ensures compliance with established standards, and promotes positive relationships with the community and stakeholders.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP AND ADMINISTRATION

• Serves as Acting Director in the Director’s absence
• Collaborates with the Director and Executive Team in strategic planning and system-wide decision-making.
• Coordinates and participates in the planning, development, and implementation of policies, procedures and services.
• Administers and evaluates public service operations.
• Oversees the implementation and evaluation of the strategic plan.
• Assists with budget development and management; oversees materials budget.
• Collects, analyzes, and evaluates data to inform decision-making and planning.
• Oversees compilation of library statistics.
• Leads special projects and initiatives that align with the library’s mission and strategic priorities.
• Assists the Director with board-related tasks and meetings.

CUSTOMER SERVICE

• Establishes and evaluates user-centered customer service standards internally and externally.
• Ensures compliance with customer service standards through modeling, coaching, and training.
• Promotes a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all library users.
• Handles complex customer concerns and resolves complaints.

PUBLIC SERVICE DELIVERY

• Oversees the library’s services to the public.
• Initiates and implements new services to meet community needs.
• Monitors and evaluates service and program effectiveness; adjusts strategies based on data and community feedback.
• Collaborates and strengthens partnerships with community organizations, city officials, schools, and stakeholders to promote and advance library services.

SUPERVISION

• Provides leadership, mentorship, and performance management for department managers and staff.
• Fosters a collaborative, values-driven workplace culture.
• Assists in recruiting, hiring, training, and evaluating staff.
• Establishes performance expectations and ensures accountability.
• Participates in labor relations, including negotiations and committee representation.
• Supports staff development and team building.
• Ensures effective communication of library information and trends to all employees.

MISCELLANEOUS

• Attends meetings and serves on committees, as needed
• Maintains and increases knowledge and skills through attendance at meetings, conferences, training seminars, and in-service training sessions and through regularly reading professional literature
• Performs additional duties and assignments, as requested

EDUCATION

Master’s degree in Library and Information Science from an American Library Association accredited school

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE

• Five (5) years’ experience in library management with progressive levels of responsibility and supervision, including at least three (3) years managing a department or branch, preferably in a public library.
• Valid Ohio driver’s license (or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire) and reliable transportation
• Proven record of strategic thinking, leadership, and innovation.
• Demonstrated ability to manage high-performing teams and complex operations.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES

• Interact appropriately and effectively with a culturally diverse workforce and community that includes people of all ages
• Make independent decisions using good judgment
• Define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions
• Resolve problems involving several variables
• Organize, prioritize and coordinate multiple tasks while meeting deadlines
• Identify future needs of the library and develop plans to meet them
• Use a variety of devices, software, products, and apps used in libraries and office settings at a proficient level
• Present a positive, professional image to the public
• Communicate effectively in written and oral form, including public speaking
• Maintain a positive work environment for staff
• Work effectively in a unionized environment.
• Establish performance standards
• Ensure the quality of work as measured against established standards
• Maintain confidentiality
• Work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends as required