Executive Library Director

The Coatesville Area Public Library seeks a dynamic, community-centered, and business-minded leader to serve as its next Executive Library Director. Located in the historic City of Coatesville, the Library has served the community for more than 140 years as a trusted hub for literacy, learning, and connection. A member of the Chester County Library System, the Coatesville Area Public Library serves approximately 38,000 residents across the City of Coatesville as well as Modena, South Coatesville, Caln Township, East Fallowfield Township, Valley Township, and West Bradford Township. The Library is dedicated to promoting literacy, supporting lifelong learning, and strengthening community connections through accessible resources, welcoming spaces, and engaging programming for children, teens, and adults. Position Overview The Executive Library Director is the Library’s chief administrative and executive officer and is responsible for the overall leadership, management, and strategic direction of the organization. Reporting to and working in close partnership with the Board of Trustees, the Director oversees library operations, financial management, staff leadership, community engagement, and fundraising efforts while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the organization. The Director plays a key role in strengthening the Library’s long-term financial sustainability through responsible financial management, fundraising leadership, and community partnerships. The Director supervises a staff of approximately 14 part-time employees, one full-time employee, and numerous volunteers. This position requires strong leadership, financial stewardship, sound judgment, 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 priorities • Support the Board in policy implementation, organizational planning, and evaluation of library performance • Prepare written and verbal reports for the Board and attend Board and committee meetings • Maintain compliance with Pennsylvania state library standards and Chester County Library System requirements • Provide professional guidance to the Board on library trends, operational needs, and community priorities Financial Management & Organizational Sustainability • Ensure responsible stewardship of public and private funds • Develop and monitor annual operating and capital budgets • Manage financial controls and ensure compliance with state and county requirements • Work closely with the Board Treasurer and Chester County Library System Business Office to maintain transparency and accountability • Oversee purchasing of library materials, supplies, and services Development, Fundraising & Revenue Growth • Identify and pursue grants, sponsorships, and partnership funding opportunities • Build relationships with corporate sponsors, foundations, donors, and local businesses • Collaborate with the Board of Trustees on fundraising strategy and donor cultivation • Oversee grant reporting and ensure compliance with funding requirements • Develop sustainable revenue strategies that strengthen the Library’s long-term financial stability • Build and maintain partnerships with local schools, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and community leaders • Foster positive relationships with patrons, stakeholders, and municipal partners • Oversee marketing, outreach, and public communications • Represent the Library at community events, civic meetings, and professional gathering Operations & Administration • Oversee daily operations of the Library and maintain efficient administrative systems • Ensure effective coordination of library services, purchasing, and vendor relationships • Maintain organized and professional operational processes • Prepare and submit required statistics and reports for the Board, county, and state • Attend Chester County Library System meetings, trainings, and professional workshops Community Engagement & Advocacy • Serve as the Library’s primary spokesperson and public representative • Build and maintain partnerships with local schools, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and community leaders • Foster positive relationships with patrons, stakeholders, and municipal partners • Oversee marketing, outreach, and public communications • Represent the Library at community events, civic meetings, and professional gatherings Program & Service Oversight • Provide strategic oversight of library programming and community initiatives • Ensure programs align with the Library’s mission and reflect the needs of the Coatesville community • Support staff in delivering engaging, impactful, and well-attended programs Staff Leadership & Organizational Culture • Supervise and support a team of part-time staff, full-time staff, and volunteers • Foster a professional, respectful, and collaborative workplace culture • Establish clear expectations and accountability measures for staff performance • Conduct performance evaluations and support staff development • Encourage open communication, teamwork, and strong public service standards Required Qualifications • Master’s Degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited institution • Pennsylvania Public Library Professional Certification or the ability to obtain certification • Minimum of five (5) years of progressive leadership experience, including staff supervision, budget management, and organizational planning • Experience working collaboratively with boards, community partners, or government stakeholders • Strong written and verbal communication skills • Ability to work effectively with staff, trustees, community partners, and diverse stakeholders • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) • Valid driver’s license • Successful completion of required background checks (FBI, PA Criminal History, PA Child Abuse) Preferred Qualifications • Experience in public library administration or nonprofit leadership • Experience managing organizational budgets and financial reporting • Fundraising, grant writing, or development experience • Demonstrated success building community partnerships and external relationships Work Expectations • Full-time, exempt position (minimum 40 hours per week) • Evening and weekend hours required for meetings, programs, and community events • On-site presence required • Ability to travel locally for meetings, trainings, and community engagement activities This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties and responsibilities. Additional tasks may be assigned as organizational needs evolve. The Coatesville Area Public Library is committed to providing inclusive and welcoming services to the community and fostering a diverse and supportive workplace. Compensation & Benefits Salary: $60,000 – $65,000, commensurate with experience Benefits are offered by the Library and will be discussed during the hiring process. Application Instructions: Please submit the following materials: Resume & Cover Letter Applications must be submitted electronically to: Coatesville Area Public Library Board of Trustees [email protected] Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Pay: $60,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year Benefits: • Paid time off • Professional development assistance Work Location: In person