Deputy County Librarian

Sacbar; Santa Clara (CA); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Champion Innovation in Santa Clara County’s Silicon Valley libraries seeks a Deputy County Librarian to shape strategy, design programs, and drive equitable, modern library services across the system.

In this executive role, you’ll lead a high-performing team, guide policy, and serve on the County Librarian’s leadership team, partnering with communities, other departments, and commissions to advance learning and civic engagement.

Qualifications

• At least five years of progressively responsible supervisory and administrative experience in a public library system.
• Experience participating in policy and program determination at a systemwide level, or leadership of a community library.
• Knowledge of library administration, operations, personnel management, fiscal management, collection development, reference services, and staffing strategies.
• Ability to lead comprehensive programs, supervise diverse teams, communicate effectively, and build strong community and organizational relationships.

Responsibilities

• Set strategy and design programs for the library system.
• Direct key programs and supervise leadership team.
• Represent the County Librarian at meetings and policy discussions.
• Build partnerships with communities and other departments.

Skills

Supervisory experience

Policy leadership

Budget & fiscal management

Community relations

Leadership

Job description

Champion Innovation at the Heart of Silicon Valley Libraries. As the Deputy County Librarian, you’ll influence the evolution of a modern, responsive, and community-centered library system positioned at the heart of one of the most innovative regions in the world. This is your opportunity to strengthen a best-in-class public library experience that advances learning, equity, and connection for Santa Clara County’s diverse communities.

Your Mission

Partner with the County Librarian to set strategy, design programs, and deliver exceptional and equitable library services across the entire system. In this executive role, you’ll plan, organize, and direct key programs; support longterm strategic visioning; and serve as acting department head when needed. You will manage through your leadership team and serve as a trusted advisor shaping policy, service delivery, and community impact.

What Makes This Role Unique

• Systemwide Leadership: You will guide operations and service delivery across the district including multiple community libraries, outreach vehicles and specialized service points—each with unique programs, needs, and partnerships—ensuring highquality, consistent, and responsive library services.
• Innovation in Public Learning: In the heart of Silicon Valley, our library system embraces technology, creativity, and excellence. You’ll help modernize systems, expand access, and explore innovative ways to meet evolving community needs.
• Community-Centered Approach: Our libraries serve as hubs of inclusion, belonging, and civic engagement. You will work directly with communities, commissions, other county departments and partners to strengthen services and ensure alignment with local needs.
• Equity at the Core: Libraries play a vital role in advancing equitable access to information, resources, and opportunities. You will help ensure programs reflect and uplift the diverse communities we serve and support in their life-long learning.
• High-Level Influence: As part of the Executive Team, you will represent the County Librarian at internal, community, professional, and governmental meetings—shaping decisions that influence systemwide operations and long-term strategy.

What You Bring

• At least five years of progressively responsible supervisory and administrative experience in a public library system;
• Experience participating in policy and program determination at a systemwide level, or leadership of a community library;
• Knowledge of library administration, operations, personnel management, fiscal management, collection development, reference services, and staffing strategies;
• Ability to lead comprehensive programs, supervise diverse teams, communicate effectively, and build strong community and organizational relationships.