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Director Of Libraries Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Norfolk, VA

Director, The Slover

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$147K - $214K/yr

The Director of The Slover provides administrative oversight for the Downtown Branch while ensuring library operations support the strategic direction, policies, service standards, and initiatives ...

University of Pennsylvania

Carton Rogers III Vice Provost and Director of Libraries, the Chief of Staff serves as a critical advisor and member of the Penn Libraries' senior leadership team, and provides leadership for the ...

Sjf

Director of Lavery Library

Rochester, NY · On-site

Job Responsibilities The Director of Lavery Library has the responsibility for leadership, planning, and development of all library policies, services, budgets, and supervision of library and support ...

New

RENBROOK SUMMER ADVENTURE DAY

Director of Library Services Parental Leave Renbrook School (West Hartford, CT), an independent day school for children age three to grade eight, currently seeks a Director of Library Services for a ...

Ilisagvik College

Director of Library Services

Barrow, AK · On-site

$105K/yr

The Director of Library Services provides vision, leadership, advocacy and direction in all aspects of the library's operation as an academic library for Iḷisaġvik College and public library for ...

Ilisagvik College

Director of Library Services

Barrow, AK · On-site

$105K/yr

The Director of Library Services provides vision, leadership, advocacy and direction in all aspects of the library's operation as an academic library for Iḷisaġvik College and public library for ...

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Director Of Libraries information

What does a director of libraries do?

A Director of Libraries oversees the management and strategic direction of library systems, which may include public, academic, or special libraries. They are responsible for budgeting, staffing, policy development, and ensuring the library meets the needs of its community or institution. Directors also work to enhance library services, develop collections, and implement new technologies. They often serve as the public face of the library, advocating for funding and partnerships. Effective leadership, communication, and organizational skills are essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of libraries, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Libraries, you need advanced knowledge of library science, leadership experience, and typically a Master of Library Science (MLS/MLIS) degree. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital resource management, and relevant professional certifications like ALA accreditation is important. Outstanding communication, strategic planning, and team management skills help you lead diverse staff and engage the community. These competencies are crucial for ensuring effective library operations, adapting to technological change, and fostering a vibrant learning environment.

How does a director of libraries typically balance administrative duties with community engagement and staff development?

A Director of Libraries often divides their time between high-level administrative tasks—such as budgeting, policy development, and strategic planning—and actively engaging with staff and the community. Effective directors schedule regular meetings with department heads, participate in community outreach events, and support professional development opportunities for staff. Balancing these responsibilities requires strong organizational skills and a collaborative leadership style to ensure library services remain innovative and responsive to community needs. Many directors also foster partnerships with local organizations to expand programming and resources.

What is the difference between Director Of Libraries vs Librarian?

AspectDirector Of LibrariesLibrarian
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS), leadership experienceMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS), specialized knowledge
Work EnvironmentLibrary administration, overseeing staff and operationsPublic, academic, or special libraries, assisting patrons
Employer & Industry UsageLibraries, educational institutions, government agenciesLibraries, archives, information centers
Common Search & ComparisonLeadership, management, strategic planningReference services, collection management, user assistance

The main difference is that a Director Of Libraries focuses on overseeing library operations, managing staff, and strategic planning, while a Librarian provides direct services to library users, manages collections, and assists patrons. Both roles require a Master's in Library Science, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

What cities are hiring for Director Of Libraries jobs?

Cities with the most Director Of Libraries job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Director Of Libraries jobs?

The top employers for Director Of Libraries jobs are:

What states have the most Director Of Libraries jobs?

States with the most job openings for Director Of Libraries jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Director Of Libraries jobs?

For Director Of Libraries jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Director Of Libraries jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Of Libraries job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Deputy Dean of Libraries

Princeton, NJ • On-site

Princeton University
Education • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Princeton Universityexternal

$170K - $255K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Princeton University rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview
Princeton University Library (PUL) seeks an accomplished, collaborative, and visionary leader to serve as its next Deputy Dean of Libraries. As the Dean's principal strategic partner and advisor, the Deputy Dean plays a pivotal leadership role in shaping the future of one of the world's premier research libraries.
Reporting directly to the Dean of Libraries and Robert H. Taylor 1930 University Librarian, the Deputy Dean provides strategic leadership, operational oversight, and organizational coordination across the Library. The Deputy Dean is responsible for advancing institutional priorities, strengthening organizational effectiveness, and fostering partnerships both within Princeton University and across the broader national and international research library community.
Additionally, the Deputy Dean oversees four key areas: Assessment and User Experience; Content Access, Metadata, and Fulfillment; Physical Projects and Space Planning; and Communications.
The Deputy also serves as Chair of the Library Administration Team (LAT), supporting operational coordination across the Library's senior leadership structure, highlighting synergies, and fostering cross-departmental collaboration and innovation.
Applicants are requested to include a cover letter with their application.
Responsibilities
Strategy and Planning
  • Synthesize complex and competing priorities into actionable recommendations and decision-making frameworks.
  • Lead the development, interpretation, and implementation of strategic priorities that support the Library's long-term sustainability and impact.
  • Represent and advocate for PUL's perspectives in University-wide planning and decision-making forums.
  • Identify emerging risks, organizational challenges, and strategic opportunities.
  • Facilitate cross-functional collaboration and alignment across Library divisions.
  • Build and sustain productive, collaborative relationships with University leaders, faculty, and external partners.
  • Sponsor and lead strategic, cross-divisional initiatives.

Operational and People Leadership
  • Lead and develop approximately 100 staff members through a team of directors and managers in four key departments: Assessment and User Experience; Content Access and Metadata Services; Physical Projects and Space Planning; and Communications.
  • Lead and ensure effective operational planning and business continuity preparedness.
  • Foster a culture of collaboration across PUL, strengthening organizational resilience and operational capability across departments.
  • Develop and promote high-performing, user-centered services that advance the Library's mission.
Decision-Making and Organizational Development
  • Help ensure that the Library's governance structures are both efficient and representative of its mission, vision, and staff
  • Oversee ethical stewardship of Library and patron data.
  • Lead the Library's accessibility program across physical and digital environments.
  • Leverage Assessment and User Experience data to inform strategic decision-making based on PUL's operational needs.
  • Partner with Library and campus leaders to align the Library's value and impact with needs of faculty and students
External Representation
  • Build and maintain relationships with peer institutions and professional organizations.
  • Represent and advance the interests of PUL at regional, national, and international meetings and conferences.
  • Foster strategic collaborations within organizations such as the Ivy Plus Library Confederation, Association of Research Libraries, Coalition for Networked Information, and related communities.
  • Participate in university committees and working groups related to operational excellence, accessibility, assessment, and strategic initiatives.

Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Library and Information Science from an ALA-accredited program or a master's degree in a related field.
  • Minimum of ten years of progressively responsible leadership experience in an academic or research institution.
  • Significant experience leading complex operational and service organizations.
  • Demonstrated success serving as a senior strategic advisor to executive leadership.
  • Experience navigating complex academic, administrative, and financial environments.
  • Knowledge of current trends in academic library operations.
  • Demonstrated commitment to diversity, inclusion, and staff development.
  • Demonstrated experience with library communications and institutional messaging strategies.
  • Familiarity with integrated library systems, including Alma or similar platforms.
  • Experience building collaborative partnerships across organizational boundaries.
  • Outstanding communication, leadership, analytical, and relationship-management skills.
  • Experience managing diverse workforces, including unionized and non-unionized employees.
  • Ability to lead effectively in complex, dynamic environments.
Preferred qualifications
  • Active participation in professional organizations such as ARL, IPLC, CNI, EDUCAUSE, or similar associations.
  • Experience serving as a deputy, chief of staff, or senior advisor to a chief executive.
  • Experience leading major capital projects, renovations, or space planning initiatives.
  • Experience leading business continuity planning and organizational responses to large-scale disruptions.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.
If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.
The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.
Standard Weekly Hours
36.25
Eligible for Overtime
No
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Probationary Period
180 days
Essential Services Personnel (see policy for detail)
No
Physical Capacity Exam Required
No
Valid Driver's License Required
No
Experience Level
Director
#LI-SB1
Salary Range
$170,000 to $255,000

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