Public Services Director

Hillside Public Library; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 51,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

IMRF participation

Full-time schedule

Job summary

The Hillside Public Library seeks a Public Services Director to lead the Public Services Department, overseeing adult, teen, and youth services, reference activities, readers’ advisory, programming, and community outreach. The role reports to the Executive Director and supervises professional staff, managing operations and budgets while participating in library-wide planning.

We value collaborative, inclusive leadership and are eager to work with a creative thinker who embraces new ideas and

Qualifications

• ALA-accredited master's degree in library science or equivalent.
• Minimum two years of public library experience.
• At least one year of supervisory/leadership experience.
• Spanish speakers are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Oversee adult, teen and youth services, reference activities, readers’ advisory, programming and outreach.
• Supervise professional staff and manage departmental operations and budgets.
• Contribute to library-wide planning and decision-making.
• Foster welcoming, inclusive service and community partnerships.

Skills

Leadership

Staff supervision

Budget management

Community outreach

Public services

Education

ALA-accredited Master’s degree (MLS)

Job description

Are you passionate about public libraries, energized by community service, and ready to lead a creative, collaborative team? The Hillside Public Library is seeking a Public Services Director to oversee our Public Services Department and help shape the future of library services in our community. With plans for a new library building underway, this is an opportunity to join our leadership team at a transformative moment and help reimagine the spaces and services we offer our community.

The Public Services Director serves as a key member of the library’s leadership team, providing direction and oversight foradult, teen, and youth services, including reference activities, readers’ advisory, programming, and community outreach. Reporting to the Executive Director, this position supervises professional staff, manages departmental operations and budgets, and participates in library-wide planning and decision-making.

In this role, you will lead the development of welcoming, inclusive service that reflects the needs and interests of our diverse community. You will guide staff, foster meaningful community partnerships, evaluate collections and services, and identify opportunities for innovation and improvement. You will also remain actively engaged in direct public service, working alongside staff to provide exceptional service to library users of all ages and backgrounds.

The ideal candidate is an approachable, resourceful, and confident leader who values collaboration, communicates effectively, and brings both creativity and sound judgment to their work. We are looking for someone who enjoys helping people develop their skills, embraces new ideas and technologies, and understands the important role libraries play in their communities.

Full-time, 37.5 hours per week, participation in IMRF, and a complete benefits package, including 100% employer-paid health insurance premiums for both employees and eligible family members. Schedule includes weekends by rotation and occasional evening shifts.

Desired qualifications include an ALA-accredited master’s degree, two years of successful experience in a public library, and one year of supervisory experience or demonstrated leadership experience.Spanish speakers are particularly encouraged to apply, as bilingualservice is an important asset to our community. The Hillside Public Library values diverse backgrounds and we encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet all the criteria.

The salary range for this position is $51,178 to $79,965. Offers are made within this range based on competencies, experience, and internal equity. In most cases, offers will fall between the minimum and midpoint of the salary range.

Send resume and cover letter to:

Amy Franco

Executive Director

Hillside Public Library

[e-mail]

No phone calls, please

Deadline for applications is November 30, 2026