DLA

Chief of Neighborhood Library Services Division

Chief of Neighborhood Library Services Division – Enoch Pratt Free Library (MD)

The historic Enoch Pratt Free Library of Baltimore City is seeking applications for the next Chief of Neighborhood Library Services Division (NLSD). The Pratt Library is one of the oldest free public library systems in the United States serving the 622,000+ residents of the City of Baltimore through its twenty-one branch locations and also serves the 6,000,000 residents of Maryland as the State Library Resource Center.  The renovated Central Library which opened in 1932 as a ground-breaking ‘open to the people’ library whose mission is “to empower, enrich, and enhance the quality of life for all through equitable access to information, services, and opportunity.”  Dedicated patrons, volunteers, and donors enthusiastically support the work of the Enoch Pratt Free Library as it upholds library traditions and embraces the challenges of a rapidly changing library world.

Responsibilities: The Chief of Neighborhood Library Services Division (NLSD) is a member of the Library Leadership Team and, under general direction from the CEO, provides leadership, oversight, and management of the Neighborhood Libraries Services Division. This division is comprised of 21 branch libraries; two Deputy Chiefs; 21 Branch managers, a Programming team, and an executive assistant. The NLSD offices will be located at a former branch location, Hollins St. in downtown Baltimore.  The ideal candidate is a big picture thinker with outstanding leadership and management skills who will bring new and fresh ideas to a changing organization. Excellent communication and presentation skills are essential. Experience in developing new and responsive models of service in an urban library setting is required. Preparation and management of the division’s operating budget and standard operating procedures are also required.

Baltimore is a diverse city, made up of distinct neighborhoods with very specific needs. The Enoch Pratt Free Library (EPFL) provides services to all of these communities through a variety of innovative services. The Library values diversity and equity and recognizes the importance of these to Baltimore. In keeping with these values, the NLSD is reflective of these values and responsive to identified community needs. Its Chief must be community-oriented; energized by innovation and calculated risk-taking; responsive to community needs and proactive in making connections with organizations and groups that support and comprise Baltimore’s communities. Additionally, the Chief should be an empowering force for the District and Library Managers, while simultaneously communicating and upholding Leadership decisions.

Our Community: Known as a city of neighborhoods, the past and the future intersect in Baltimore.  Many historic communities showcase Baltimore’s rich history and wealth of diversity with many significant properties listed on the National Register; Under Armour’s forward-looking Port Covington development is among the largest urban redevelopment projects in the country and the city’s historic Inner Harbor boasts walkable neighborhoods, tourist attractions, and commercial development. An entrepreneurial community has emerged alongside Baltimore’s robust network of colleges and universities, world-class museums, internationally renowned symphony orchestra, trendy music and art venues, beloved professional sports teams, and varied culinary choices. As with many urban cities, Baltimore has distinct challenges as well as powerful assets and many of Baltimore’s citizens suffer a disparity of income, education, and opportunity. The Enoch Pratt Free Library continues to be a vital, important partner in Baltimore’s determination to meet these challenges.

Qualifications:  A Master’s in Library Science from an ALA-accredited institution. Five (5) years of professional experience in an urban library with three (3) years of the required experience in high-level/leadership.

Compensation: The hiring salary range is $86,518 – $138,364 (with placement negotiable dependent on experience and qualifications) and an excellent fringe benefits package. 

For further information, contact Bradbury Miller Associates. Apply via email with a meaningful cover letter and your resume as Word or pdf attachments to  Karen Miller (karenmiller AT bradburymiller.com).   This position closes on November 28, 2021.

View the announcement in its entirety along with accompanying links and information at https://bradburymiller.com/job/nlsd/.

Posted: 10/26/21