CEO & Chief Librarian - Closing September 18, 2026

Municipality of Port Hope; Port Hope; On-site; CAD 105,000 - 142,000; Full time

Job summary

The Municipality of Port Hope is seeking a visionary Chief Executive Officer & Chief Librarian to lead the Port Hope Public Library into its next chapter. Reporting to the Library Board, you will guide daily operations, municipal relations, and long-term strategy.

This role combines governance with revenue diversification, technology integration (including AI tools), and hands-on team leadership to deliver modern library services for a growing community.

Qualifications

• Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) or equivalent from an ALA-accredited institution (preferred).
• Minimum 5 years of progressive library experience, with at least 3 years in a management role within a public library (unionized environment preferred).
• Thorough knowledge of Ontario public library standards, municipal practices, and the Public Libraries Act, alongside proven financial literacy and fundraising aptitude.
• Direct experience with Integrated Library Systems (SirsiDynix Symphony) and data analytics tools (BlueCloud Analytics).

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the library system and fiscal stewardship.
• Report to and partner with the Library Board; engage with Municipal Council.
• Lead revenue diversification, grant writing, and donor cultivation.
• Drive modern technology integration and strong, inclusive team leadership.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Presentation skills

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-thinkingChief Executive Officer & Chief Librarianto 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 thePublic Libraries Actwith 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 thePublic 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+.