Description

Assistant County Librarian

(Library Deputy Director)

OC PUBLIC LIBRARIES (OCPL)
OC Public Libraries is a network of 29 branches serving 23 cities and unincorporated areas of Orange County, plus a branch for residents of Orangewood Children’s Home. Guided by our mission to Empower & Enrich Our Communities and our vision of Open Doors, Free Access, Community, OCPL provides residents with access to books, digital resources, programs, and services that foster lifelong learning, literacy, and connection.

Our dedicated staff deliver exceptional service and innovative programs across a system that values community engagement, equity, and excellence.

THE OPPORTUNITY

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 OCPL’s 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 OCPL’s 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 OCPL’s 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 OCPL’s 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.

Requirements

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Please click here to view the minimum qualifications for Library Deputy Director. 

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS AND CORE COMPETENCIES
The ideal candidate's application will demonstrate extensive experience, knowledge, and/or ability in the following core competencies:

Education and Experience

• Master’s 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.

To apply for this position, please click on the following link and submit your application. We do not accept resumes in lieu of applications.  

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/oc/jobs/5124205-0/assistant-county-librarian