Library Science Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Description The City of Oregon City is excited to announce an opportunity for a collaborative and community-focused Library Manager to join our high-performing Library team. We are seeking an innovative leader who is passionate about public service, committed to building responsive and inclusive library programs, and enthusiastic about supporting staff development and community engagement. The Library Manager oversees assigned divisions, supervises staff, manages programs and initiatives, contributes to strategic planning, and ensures excellent customer service for patrons of all ages.

The first review of applications will happen on August 17, 2026. This position is open until filled and can be closed at anytime without notice or further review of applications. Examples of Duties Provide leadership, direction, and support to Library staff, including developing work plans, evaluating performance, interpreting policies, and providing staff development.

Manage assigned division budgets, monitor expenditures, and participate in citywide budget processes. Oversee strategic plan implementation and special projects, ensuring timely completion and effective communication. Coordinate building management and safety response.

Represent the Library in community meetings and public engagements, and serve on committees and advisory groups. Manage Adult and Youth Services divisions, including collection development, programming, outreach, and publicity efforts. Oversee daily operations, facility readiness, circulation functions, and staff/volunteer coordination.

Typical Qualifications Typical Qualifications - Knowledge Knowledge of professional library practices including reference, programming, outreach, collection development, classification, cataloging, circulation, and customer service. Knowledge of ILS systems, databases, online interfaces, and information retrieval practices. Knowledge of public library administration, strategic planning, supervision, policy development, and project management.

Strong English communication skills, including professional writing and editing. Typical Qualifications - Skills & Abilities Ability to interpret and explain regulations, codes, procedures, and policies. Ability to create responsive library services and programs within resource constraints.

Ability to coach staff, assess performance, and provide constructive feedback. Ability to build strong community relationships and maintain partnerships. Ability to research, analyze, and present recommendations clearly.

Ability to manage multiple priorities, organize workflows, and develop strategic initiatives. Ability to represent the Library and City in a positive, professional manner. Education and Training A typical way of obtaining the required knowledge and abilities is graduation from high school or earning a GED; a Master's Degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS); and five years of increasingly responsible public library experience, including at least one year in a lead, supervisory, or management role.

Equivalent combinations of training and experience may be considered. Physical Abilities Requires frequent sitting, walking, reaching, bending, crouching, kneeling, and ability to lift 35 pounds, carry 20 pounds, overhead reach 5 pounds, and push/pull 20 pounds. Must be able to sustain extended periods of sitting at a public service desk and interact with patrons in person, by phone, or email.

Requires ability to work in environments with dust, odors, or perfumes. Supplemental Information Other Requirements Must pass a criminal background check. Valid driver's license may be required.

Work schedule may include holiday, weekend, and evening hours. Occasional attendance required at City Commission, Library Board, Library Foundation, Neighborhood Association, and other community meetings. The City of Oregon City is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The City of Oregon City is an Equal Opportunity Employer; it is the City's policy to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, mental or physical disability, uniformed/military service or veteran's status, use of the worker's compensation system, expunged juvenile records, or any other protected status or activity in accordance with applicable law. It is the City's policy to make employment, internship, volunteer selection, etc. decisions based on its evaluation of an individual's qualifications, ability and contribution to the success of the City.

We will consider any equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, certifications, and experience to meet the minimum positions qualifications. If you are interested in applying for this position, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skillset for the role. Studies have shown that many candidates are less likely to apply for a job if they do not believe they meet all of the hiring criteria.

Our talent acquisition goals include hiring the candidate who is best able to meet the performance objectives of this role. We therefore encourage persons with non-traditional skill sets and experiences to apply, and to take the time to explain how those skills and experiences qualify them for this role.