Description

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

The ideal candidate will be a visible and visionary leader in the library profession, known for advancing innovative and dynamic programs and services that meet current and emerging community needs. Willingness and ability to work collaboratively with library staff at all levels, library support groups, other City departments, and community partners to expand service capacity; to focus on the big picture of community needs; and to push the boundaries of what people traditionally expect from libraries are essential. The next director will model Redwood City’s values of Excellence, Integrity, Service, Collaboration, Inclusion, and Innovation in both decision-making and leadership style.

Community Engagement & Customer Focus

This role requires a leader who values community input, equity, and inclusion. The director will actively engage with residents, schools, businesses, nonprofits, and other stakeholders to ensure that Library programs and services meet the diverse needs of Redwood City’s community. The ideal candidate will be a strong and articulate communicator with a history of serving as an effective relationship and partnership builder. A track record of measuring participation and satisfaction and using data to improve service delivery is essential.

Leadership & Collaboration

The new director will work closely with City departments, partner agencies, and community organizations to develop responsive services and programs. Redwood City’s leadership team values collaboration, and a can-do attitude will align well with the department’s existing culture. The successful candidate will contribute thoughtfully to organization-wide initiatives, balancing departmental priorities with broader City goals. The ideal candidate will bring strong project management, budgeting, delegation, and customer service skills, along with a resourceful and solution-oriented mindset.

Team Leadership & Professional Development

Department staff will appreciate a thoughtful and approachable leader who listens, understands the challenges of delivering diverse programs, and supports professional growth. The ideal candidate will be relatable, approachable, and credible with a diverse workforce, earning trust through authenticity and fairness. Encouraging a culture of engagement, transparency, accountability, and mutual support across all levels the department is an important skill set. The successful candidate should demonstrate the ability to support a workplace where staff feel informed, valued, and well-equipped to serve the community. Experience managing in a union environment, mentoring staff, and fostering a positive workplace culture is highly valued. The City is seeking a leader who can balance big-picture strategy with hands-on involvement when needed.

Innovation, Strategic Thinking, and Change Management

The ideal candidate will be adept at data-driven decision-making and budget management while balancing the nuances of community needs. They will assess services, adapt based on feedback and best practices, and implement change thoughtfully and effectively. Experience with change management in a public-facing environment and a practical approach to technology and resource allocation are key attributes. A forward thinker, the individual selected will have the proven ability to be proactive in their approach to designing the future of library services in alignment with demographic shifts, emerging technologies, and other changing conditions. The ideal candidate will have a history of staying abreast of new tools, developing trends, and best practices in the profession.

Requirements

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities will be considered qualifying.  A career history that reflects a typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:  five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience in professional public library administration. A Bachelor’s degree, and a Master of Library Science degree from an accredited college or university are required. 

Applications are due 8/16/2026 at 11:59 pm