Assistant County Librarian

Assistant County Librarian

(Library Deputy Director)

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

DEADLINE TO APPLY

Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply immediately as the recruitment will close on

Monday December 15 2025 at 11:59 PM (PT).

THE COUNTY

The County of Orange is a regional service provider and planning agency whose core businesses include public safety public health environmental protection regional planning public assistance social services and aviation.

OC COMMUNITY RESOURCES (OCCR)

Under the general direction of the County Librarian the Assistant County Librarian provides strategic and operational leadership to ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality library services across OC Public Libraries. This position oversees daily operations supports systemwide initiatives and ensures alignment with County priorities mission and values.

The Assistant County Librarian plays a key role in managing operations optimizing resources and fostering a collaborative service-oriented culture throughout the organization. This position acts as the County Librarian during absences or as designated.

KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

Leadership and Operational Oversight

• Support the County Librarian in managing and directing OCPLs day-to-day operations ensuring efficiency quality and alignment with County and departmental priorities.
• Supervise and provide guidance to Administrative Managers overseeing Branch Operations Capital Projects & Facilities and other major service areas.
• Foster a culture of collaboration accountability and professional excellence.

Strategic and Organizational Planning

• Assist in developing and implementing OCPLs strategic plans goals and operational policies.
• Analyze system performance and community needs to recommend data-informed strategies for improvement.
• Lead and coordinate major projects and initiatives that advance OCPLs mission and long-term goals.

Policy Compliance and Service Quality

• Oversee implementation of library policies procedures and service standards to ensure consistency and equity across all branches and divisions.
• Evaluate programs and services for efficiency effectiveness and community impact.

Project and Facilities Management

• Direct and support capital improvement projects facility planning and system enhancements that promote equitable and sustainable access.
• Liaise with County departments consultants and project partners to guide planning budgeting and decision-making.
• Ensure projects are completed on schedule within budget and in alignment with County and community priorities.

Fiscal and Administrative Management

• Assist in developing and administering OCPLs operating and capital budgets.
• Evaluate cost-effectiveness identify operational efficiencies and ensure fiscal accountability.
• Support long-term financial planning and resource allocation efforts.

Community and Stakeholder Engagement

• Represent OCPL at County meetings community events and professional forums.
• Cultivate productive relationships with City officials community partners and Friends of the Library groups to strengthen engagement and advocacy.

Staff Development and Training

• Provide leadership and direction for systemwide staff development and training initiatives.
• Support Chiefs and managers in aligning staff performance growth and succession planning with organizational goals.

Education and Experience

• Masters Degree in Library Science Library and Information Science or a closely related field from a program accredited by the American Library Association (ALA)
• Six (6) years of library management experience in related assignment; must include two (2) years of supervisory experience
• Experience managing operations in a large multi-branch or countywide public library system
• Demonstrated success in implementing operational improvements and managing budgets
• Knowledge of Integrated Library Systems (ILS) library technology and emerging trends

Leadership and Management

• Demonstrated business acumen and ethical leadership in managing public services
• Proven ability to develop and implement strategic and operational plans set measurable goals and ensure accountability
• Strong analytical and decision-making skills with the ability to navigate complex organizational environments
• Creative and results-oriented with a focus on solutions and innovation
• Excellent communication skills both verbal and written with the ability to engage across diverse audiences
• Political and organizational acumen when working with elected officials and County leadership
• Strong leadership and team management skills including the ability to delegate mentor and develop staff
• Commitment to fiscal responsibility and effective resource management
• Confidence and professionalism in representing OCPL to the public media and partner agencies
• Broad understanding of public library operations including customer service programming and community engagement

CORE COMPETENCIES

Leadership and Vision

• Inspires guides and empowers others to achieve organizational goals.
• Fosters a culture of openness innovation and accountability while aligning library initiatives with County priorities and community needs.

Strategic and Analytical Thinking

• Gathers interprets and applies complex data to inform decisions.
• Anticipates challenges and identifies opportunities to improve operations and services.

Effective Communication

• Communicates clearly and persuasively in both oral and written forms.
• Ensures messages are understood and actionable across all levels of the organization and within the community.

Collaboration and Staff Development

• Builds and sustains strong relationships across departments and with external partners.
• Works collaboratively with direct reports to align professional development performance goals and systemwide priorities.

Planning and Organization

• Sets clear priorities allocates resources effectively and manages competing deadlines to achieve short- and long-term goals.

Sound Judgment and Problem Solving

• Evaluates complex issues considers diverse perspectives and makes well-reasoned decisions that support ethical effective and sustainable operations.

EMAIL NOTIFICATION:

Orange County as an equal employment opportunity employer encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.