CEO & Chief Librarian - Closing September 18, 2026

Port Hope; Port Hope; On-site; CAD 111,000 - 136,000; Full time

Job summary

Port Hope Public Library seeks a visionary Chief Executive Officer & Chief Librarian to steer the library system through growth and innovation. You will lead daily operations, municipal relations, and long-term strategy, balancing governance with revenue diversification and technology integration.

You will oversee a unionized workforce, manage budgets, and champion inclusive service, community partnerships, and professional development to meet evolving needs of Port Hope residents.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in library science or equivalent as per ALA standards.
• Minimum 5 years of progressive library experience, with 3 years in a management role.
• Thorough knowledge of Ontario public library standards and the Public Libraries Act.
• Experience with municipal governance, budgeting, and fundraising.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily operations and long-term strategy for Port Hope Public Library.
• Manage municipal relations, budgets, and revenue diversification.
• Oversee technology integration and professional development for staff.
• Represent library at public forums and advocate for community needs.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Fundraising

Financial management

Stakeholder relations

Public speaking

Education

MLIS or equivalent (ALA-accredited)

Tools

SirsiDynix Symphony

BlueCloud Analytics

Job description

Lead the Future of Port Hope Public Library!

Port Hope is a fast-growing, vibrant community, and we are looking for a visionary, forward-thinking Chief Executive Officer & Chief Librarian to guide our library system into its next exciting chapter. If you are a collaborative leader with a passion for community building, modern library innovation, and fiscal stewardship, we want to hear from you.

The Role

Reporting directly to the Library Board, you will act as the chief executive officer responsible for daily operations, municipal relations, and long-term strategy. You will balance strategic governance under the Public Libraries Act with proactive revenue diversification, modern technology integration (including AI tools), and hands-on team leadership.

Key Highlights

• Strategic Vision: Partner with the Board to shape realistic, cost-effective plans that meet the evolving demographic needs of a growing town
• Financial & Grant Leadership: Act as the statutory Board Treasurer, manage operating/capital budgets, present to Municipal Council, and actively spearhead local donor cultivation and grant writing
• Community & Municipal Impact: Serve as the primary public advocate, building strong relationships with town officials, local businesses, schools, and civic group
• Team & Operations Management: Direct a dedicated, unionized workforce, championing a positive workplace culture, professional development, and seamless digital/physical service excellence.

What You Bring

• Education: Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) or equivalent from an ALA-accredited institution (preferred)
• Experience: Minimum 5 years of progressive library experience, with at least 3 years in a management role within a public library (unionized environment preferred)
• Expertise: Thorough knowledge of Ontario public library standards, municipal practices, and the Public Libraries Act, alongside proven financial literacy and fundraising aptitude
• Technical & Communication Skills: Comprehensive knowledge of, and direct experience with, Integrated Library Systems (SirsiDynix Symphony and BlueCloud Analytics) along with exceptional verbal, written, and presentation abilities

Position Details

• Type: Permanent, Full-Time (35 hours weekly; flexibility required for evening Board/Council meetings and events)
• Location: Port Hope, Ontario
• Compensation: $123,285 annually
• Number of Vacancies: One

We are working to create a more diverse and inclusive work environment and welcome applications from traditionally underrepresented groups such as women, visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, people living with disabilities and people identifying as LGBTQ2S+.

Recruitment Process

The Municipality of Port Hope is a progressive employer who believes a diverse and inclusive workplace strengthens the team and fosters an environment where everyone feels as though they belong and their dignity, beliefs and identity are respected.

We are committed to creating and sustaining an environment that provides a supportive workplace and equal opportunity for all employees. Accommodations can be requested throughout the recruitment process in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.

Applications will be reviewed, and interviews may be scheduled prior to the job posting closing date. All applicants will receive an automated email confirming the submission of their application, but only those candidates selected for an interview will be further contacted by Human Resources.

Personal information is collected under the authority of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and the Municipal Act, as amended.