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Brooklyn Public Library is one of the nation’s largest library systems and among New York City’s most democratic institutions. We offer thousands of free programs every day for people from all walks of life—immigrants learning a new language, aspiring entrepreneurs launching their dreams, children discovering the world, people of all ages exploring arts and culture. And we give patrons millions of opportunities to enjoy one of life’s greatest satisfactions: the discovery of a good book.

Now’s your chance to join the best team in Brooklyn!

The Chief Librarian is the Executive Vice President in charge of the public service division at Brooklyn Public Library, one of the largest library systems in the United States. The Library serves the 2.7 million residents of Brooklyn through a system of 62 neighborhood libraries which includes The Center for Brooklyn History, Library for Arts and Culture, and a landmarked Central Library reaching global audiences through its website, online channels, and digital offerings. The library’s operating budget is approximately $120 million and employs approximately 1,400 full-time and part-time staff.

The Chief Librarian works in concert with the other members of the senior management team to deliver transformative library services and spaces to the residents of Brooklyn. The Chief Librarian reports directly to the President and CEO of Brooklyn Public Library.

This is a full-time, non-union, exempt position. The salary range for this position is $217,600 – $285,000.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute the Library’s strategic vision as it pertains to public service delivery and librarianship
• Direct the public service staffing and programming strategy for the Central and neighborhood libraries
• Work collaboratively and productively with BPL’s Board of Trustees, Library support organizations, Library staff, unions, external local, state, and national partners, and other key stakeholders to achieve the Library’s mission
• Implement new and innovative ways to expand our user base and improve access to the Library’s collections and services
• Develop more effective and efficient ways to deliver service to library patrons
• Mentor and empower staff to create an environment of excellence, innovation, and community
• Champion and direct a high level of customer service
• Expand Library’s efforts to reach and provide service to at-risk populations
• Communicate library initiatives to stakeholders (BPL Board of Trustees, elected officials, media, Library staff, etc.) and advocate for BPL and the service it provides
• Interact and respond effectively with the media and the community; represent the Library at government, industry and public forums
• Present proposals to secure funding from philanthropic individuals and organizations to finance various aspects of the Library’s operations
• Liaise with the New York State Department of Education and other oversight organizations
• Maintain current knowledge with respect to library service best practices, both from academic sources and from peer organizations

Qualifications

• Master’s of Library Science with ten (10) or more years of progressively increasing responsibility in a library management setting, ideally within a large urban public library system
• Public Librarian’s Professional Certificate issued by the State of New York required
• Demonstrated competencies in leadership and motivation, innovation, negotiation and team building
• Excellent relationship builder, compelling communicator and advocate
• Experience in managing professional staff in a complex, multi-site organization; unionized staff management experience preferred
• Experience developing strategic plans and managing their implementation
• Track record of implementing appropriate technology that improves the customers’ experience
• Superior presentation skills, including the presence to deal effectively with diverse constituencies, including principal donors, Board members and government leaders
• Must be able to adapt to changing and competing needs; makes timely decisions based on solid information
• Ability to plan and direct the work of multidisciplinary professional and administrative staff; foster and participate in cross functional teams; and bring diverse groups together to work effectively on common projects and goals
• Sense of humor and a positive attitude

We seek professionals dedicated to providing excellent customer service, developing fruitful partnerships in the community, and implementing programs aligned with our mission and vision. You will be immersed in a motivating and challenging environment where innovation is key to the organization. If you are looking to be a part of a stimulating workplace that is highly regarded by its culturally diverse community, BPL is the place to be.

Brooklyn Public Library is an equal opportunity employer.