Director, Libraries

Job Description:

Director, Libraries

Description

JOIN THE CITY OF AUSTIN TEAM

At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer-we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. Our guiding principles-Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity - anchor our approach in delivering services that significantly impact the lives of Austin residents. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee.

What Makes the City of Austin Special?

• Make a Difference: Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation.
  
• Diverse and Inclusive Workplace: Work in an environment where every voice is valued, and Innovation thrives.
  
• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.
  
• Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.
  
• Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.
  
• Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.
  
• Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.
  
• Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments designed to foster collaboration and inspiration.
  

By joining us, you become part of a community that values its people and is committed to making Austin the most thriving and resilient city in the country.

Job Description:

Purpose:

Under the guidance of an Assistant City Manager, this position is responsible for the planning, organization, implementation, and monitoring of Citywide library services.

Duties, Functions and Responsibilities:

Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.

• Responsible for strategic and business planning, ensuring consistency with principles of a Library of the Future .
  
• Develops and implements of short - and long-term goals, objectives , strategies, and policies .
  
• Oversees department budget preparation and administration.
  
• Represents the Library before City Council and in other public forums .
  
• Develops, reviews and approves all Library policies and procedures .
  
• Communicates with the media, community groups, special organizations, and the public to gather input and share information regarding the Library.
  
• Directs all Library services and operations .
  
• Prepares reports describing the status of Library operations .
  
• Reviews plans and procedures for acquisition of both hardcopy and digital materials.
  
• Collaborates with other City departments to identify efficiencies, address redundancies, and work more effectively.
  

Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:

• Responsible for the full range of supervisory activities including selection, training, evaluation, counseling, and recommendation for dismissal.
  

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.

• Knowledge of the principles and practices of library science .
  
• Knowledge of management and personnel principles and practices .
  
• Knowledge of Local, State, and Federal laws, ordinances, and regulations.
  
• Knowledge of fiscal planning and budget preparation.
  
• Skill in directing the activities of a complex and diverse organization.
  
• Skill in preparing and analyzing budgets, reports, and studies
  
• Skill in supervision of staff and analysis of library issues .
  
• Skill in analysis of materials for acquisition.
  
• Skill in written and oral communication .
  
• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
  
• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing
  
• Skill in using computers and related software applications,
  
• Ability to communicate both orally and in writing.
  
• Ability to exercise initiative and independent judgement.
  
• Ability to work with people of diverse backgrounds .
  
• Ability to maintain effective communication and working relationships with boards and commissions, outside agencies, City employees, and the public.
  

Minimum Qualifications:

• Graduation with a Master's Degree from an accredited college or university in Library Science or related field plus eight (8) years of experience in library management including, four years of managerial experience.
  

Licenses and Certifications Required:

• None
  

Notes to Candidate:

To view the detailed Recruitment Profile for this position, please click here.

To view the City of Austin recruitment video, please click here.

Working with the City of Austin provides a number of health and welfare benefits such as low-cost medical, dental, vision, paid leave time, a highly competitive retirement plan, training opportunities and more. Please click HERE for more information.

Austin Public Library

The award-winning Austin Public Library (APL) has been the community's premier source of knowledge, technology, and inspiration for nearly a century. It provides library programs, technology, collections, and space through its state-of-the-art Central Library, Austin History Center, and 20 library branches. It also provides services and resources out in the community through outreach and partnerships. Guided by its vision to be a model of equity, inclusion, access, and diversity, and its mission to inspire all to discover, learn, and create, APL continues to evolve as a vital public space serving the diverse needs of the Austin community.

Salary Range: Commensurate based on experience and the approved salary range.

Location: 710 W. César Chávez St, Austin, TX, 78701

Days and Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Monday - Friday.

*Hours may vary depending upon business needs. This position is on-site.

The Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for Director of Libraries is a visionary and inclusive leader deeply rooted in the values of public librarianship-equitable access to information, life-long learning, and libraries as essential civic infrastructure. They bring a proven track record of leading a large, multifaceted library system with diverse branches, programs, and community partnerships. With a strong commitment to innovation and community engagement, they are skilled at navigating complex policy environments, managing operational and budgetary priorities at scale, and fostering safe, welcoming spaces for all. This leader inspires collaboration across departments, teams, and neighborhoods, and champions library services as vital tools for equity, education, and civic life in a dynamic and growing city like Austin.

The following core competencies are important for this role:

• Leadership: Demonstrates vision and innovation in developing and implementing long-term goals and initiatives aligned with the Library of the Future.
  
• Communication & Collaboration: Excels at building trust, maintaining transparent communication, and engaging effectively with elected officials, community stakeholders, and advocacy groups.
  
• Subject Matter Expertise: Possesses deep knowledge of library operations, federal and state policies affecting libraries, and trends in digital and physical collections.
  
• Equity & Inclusion: Champions inclusive practices, ensuring library services and spaces are welcoming and accessible to all.
  
• Operational Excellence: Brings strong fiscal management skills, resource stewardship, and the ability to ensure staff have the tools, materials, and support they need to succeed.
  

Regarding Your Application:

• A detailed and complete Employment Application is required. A Resume and Cover Letter are required and will not be accepted in lieu of a complete online Employment Application.
  
• Verification of employment history dates on resume should match online Employment Application.
  
• This position requires a Criminal Background Investigation (CBI).
  
• A first review of candidates will occur on October 3, 2025. To apply, candidates must complete this online application. Interested candidates should apply early in the process for optimum consideration.
  

Note: Information submitted for consideration may be made available to the public in compliance with the Texas Open Records Act.

EEO Statement for City of Austin:

The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk.

City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call (512) 974-3210 or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.