Chief of Library Services

ABOUT THE ROLE Under the direction of the President of the Library, the Chief of Library Services is the senior executive responsible for the strategic direction and operational delivery of library services across the Boston Public Library (BPL) system. This role provides leadership across the Library Services Division, including branch libraries, the Central Library, collections, digital services, and youth and adult services, acting as a principal deputy to the President. It requires exceptional strategic thinking, planning, and execution skills, a patron-centered approach, and the ability to build a culture of efficiency, innovation, impact, and accountability across a large, complex, multi-site organization. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Develop a comprehensive vision and strategic direction for all public services across the BPL system. - Provide strategic and operational leadership, directing departments and guiding cross-departmental collaboration from planning through implementation and evaluation. - Shape a forward-looking innovation agenda informed by emerging trends in libraries and related sectors. - Develop and refine the Library Service division's approach to outcomes and impact evaluation, establishing meaningful benchmarks. - Collaborate closely with the President and senior leadership in strategic planning, management, and resource allocation. - Serve as a delegate for the BPL President when necessary. - Provide oversight and guidance to direct reports on the management of departmental budgets. - Ensure equity, diversity, and inclusion are reflected in the division's priorities, programming, and operations. - Represent the BPL across local, state, national, and global communities. - Identify and champion strategic partnerships and serve as a key liaison to the Boston Public Library Fund. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Advanced degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited program is required. Further credentials in public administration, public policy, business administration, or education are desirable. - At least seven (7) years in senior leadership roles within public libraries or other complex cultural or civic institutions, with responsibility for strategic planning, budgeting, team management, and execution of high-impact initiatives. - Experience in a municipal urban public library, including in a union environment, is strongly preferred. - Thorough knowledge of public library services and evolving library practices, with demonstrated experience in strategic plan execution and complex problem-solving. - Proven ability to develop and implement a strategic vision that guides services across multiple locations and departments. - Experience leading teams through organizational growth or transformation, fostering transparency, accountability, and collaboration. - Strong background in hiring, developing, and leading diverse teams. - Experience in setting and managing complex budgets in a fiscally responsible manner. - Outstanding written and oral communication skills, with the ability to represent the organization effectively. Experience in advocacy or government affairs is an asset. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must successfully clear a City of Boston Criminal Offenders Record Information (CORI) check. - Boston residency is required. SELECTION PROCESS - Initial evaluation based on application materials and alignment with minimum qualifications. - Qualified applicants may be contacted for interviews and further assessment. - Final selection is contingent upon a successful CORI background check. HOW TO APPLY - Submit an application through the City of Boston job portal before the posting end date. - For inquiries, contact adavis@bpl.org. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: BPL Directors Office - 2, Boston, MA - Department: Boston Public Library - Job Type: Regular Full-Time - Union/Salary Plan: Non-Union / PM-9 - Hours: 35 hours per week - Posting End Date: October 28, 2026 - The City of Boston is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment.