Library Director - West Chester Library

Library Director – West Chester Public Library (PA)

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, 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, [email protected]

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.