The West Chester Public Library seeks an innovative, collaborative, and community-centered leader to serve as its next Library Director. Located in the heart of historic West Chester Borough, the Library serves a vibrant and diverse community that includes the borough and surrounding townships. West Chester offers a unique blend of small-town charm, cultural activity, and proximity to major metropolitan areas, with Philadelphia and Wilmington easily accessible.

A member of the Chester County Library System, the West Chester Public Library is dedicated to celebrating ideas, promoting creativity, connecting people, and enriching lives. Housed in a historic building with an extensive collection, the Library is a cornerstone of the community.

Position Overview:

The Library Director is the Library’s chief administrative and executive officer, responsible for the overall leadership, management, and strategic direction of the organization. Reporting to and working in close partnership with an engaged Board of Trustees, the Director oversees library operations, staff, services, and community engagement while advancing the Library’s mission and long-term sustainability.

The Director leads a staff of approximately 20 employees, two (2) of which are full-time, and coordinates the work of volunteers. This position requires strong judgment, discretion, and the ability to balance strategic leadership with operational oversight.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Governance

• Partner with the Board of Trustees to advance the Library’s mission, vision, and strategic goals
• Support the Board in policy development, organizational planning, and evaluation of library performance and effectiveness
• Prepare written and verbal reports for the Board and attend Board and committee meetings
• Provide professional guidance to the Board on library trends, community needs, and best practices

Operations & Administration

• Oversee key operational areas, including finance, facilities, information technology, personnel, marketing, fundraising, and public services
• Ensure effective planning, implementation, and evaluation of library services and programs
• Manage budgets and financial controls in coordination with the Board, Treasurer, and external partners as appropriate
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards

Fundraising & Financial Sustainability

• Work collaboratively with the Board of Trustees, Development Committee, and staff to support annual and long-term fundraising efforts
• Assist with identifying and pursuing grant opportunities at the local, state, and national levels
• Meet with new and existing donors to build relationships, understand their motivation, solicit support and steward their giving
• Attend service area municipality meetings on a regular basis to report on library funding, activities and needs and to identify opportunities for collaboration and additional support
• Support the successful implementation of library campaigns, including those supporting interior renovations, retirement of the mortgage, and long-term resource stewardship

Community Engagement & Advocacy

• Serve as the Library’s primary ambassador and advocate with community partners, government agencies, elected officials, and stakeholders
• Promote the Library’s value, services, and impact through outreach, partnerships, and public engagement
• Strengthen formal and informal relationships with local officials, local businesses and community organizations
• Represent the Library within the Chester County Library System and broader professional networks, including attendance at all regularly scheduled System meetings

Staff Leadership & Organizational Culture

• Lead, mentor, and support staff through collaborative leadership, delegation, and professional development
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and service-oriented organizational culture
• Encourage innovation and responsiveness in services, programming, and use of technology
• Support a culture of continuous learning for staff and the organization

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited institution
• Pennsylvania Public Library Professional Certification or ability to obtain
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressive leadership experience, including staff supervision and organizational planning
• Demonstrated experience working with boards, community partners, and diverse stakeholders
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Successful completion of required background checks (FBI, PA Criminal, PA Child Abuse)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in public library administration or nonprofit leadership
• Fundraising and development experience
• Demonstrated ability to build partnerships and advocate effectively for public services
• Experience in overseeing financial reporting and budgeting

Work Expectations:

• Full-time position (40 hours per week)
• Evening and weekend hours as required for meetings and community events
• On-site presence required; limited remote work opportunity
• Ability to travel to meetings, trainings, and government sessions as needed

Additional Information:

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties and responsibilities. Additional tasks may be assigned as organizational needs evolve.

West Chester Public Library is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Application Instructions:

Please submit a resume and cover letter to: Board of the West Chester Public Library, wcpubliclibraryboard@gmail.com. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.