Executive Library Director: Strategy & Community Impact

City of Rapid City; Rapid City (SD); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Rapid City is seeking an experienced Library Director to lead the planning, development, and administration of the Rapid City Public Library. The role emphasizes equitable access, long-term stewardship, and strong community engagement to support literacy and lifelong learning.

The Director will oversee facilities, collections, digital services, and programs, and will serve as a key advisor to the Library Board, Mayor, and City Council.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Ten years of progressively responsible library administration experience, including seven years in leadership.
• Valid SD driver’s license or ability to obtain within 30 days from date of hire.
• Grade 1 Library Director certification from the SD State Library preferred.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience managing budgets and organizational strategy at a department or division level.
• Comprehensive knowledge of public library operations, digital services, community engagement, and emerging technologies.

Responsibilities

• Oversees planning, development, and evaluation of facilities, collections, digital resources, technology-based services, and community programs.
• Leads, motivates, and develops team members; fosters accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Serves as primary advisor to Library Board, Mayor, City Council, and department heads on operations and trends.
• Develops and implements long-term strategic plans, goals, and priorities for Library Board consideration.
• Administers the library’s annual budget, ensuring fiscal accountability and compliance with city policies.
• Enforces library policies and best practices for regulatory compliance and operational effectiveness.
• Directs research, statistics, and analysis of service trends; evaluates service models for improvement.
• Builds and maintains relationships with government agencies, partners, and volunteers to expand impact.
• Coordinates public awareness, programming priorities, and communication strategies with stakeholders.
• Represents the library in City Council and other bodies to advocate for needs and standards.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Public administration

Communication

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic planning

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Library Science / Public Administration / Business Administration

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

Library management systems

Policy development tools

Job description

City of Rapid City is seeking an experienced Library Director to lead the planning, development, and administration of the Rapid City Public Library. The role emphasizes equitable access, long-term stewardship, and strong community engagement to support literacy and lifelong learning.

The Director will oversee facilities, collections, digital services, and programs, and will serve as a key advisor to the Library Board, Mayor, and City Council.