Director, Chesapeake Public Libraries - Chesapeake, VA

DATE ENTERED:
January 5, 2026
POSITION:
Director of Chesapeake Public Libraries

LOCATION:

Chesapeake, VA

Are you passionate about strengthening communities through public service? If so, come join our team! We are seeking a visionary, experienced leader to serve as Director of Chesapeake Public Libraries — a dynamic system committed to lifelong learning, innovation, and equitable access to information. As a cornerstone of our communities, the libraries serve as a vital bridge connecting residents to knowledge, literature, and transformative opportunities that enrich lives and inspire growth.

The Library Director provides forward-thinking leadership and strategic oversight for the Chesapeake Public Libraries (CPL), ensuring innovative and inclusive library services that reflect the diverse needs of the community. This role encompasses long-range planning, resource management, policy development, and operational excellence across seven library branches and the Law Library. The Library Director is responsible for fostering an organizational culture centered on service, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

This position reports to the City Manager via a Deputy City Manager and collaborates closely with other City departments and community partners. The Library Director oversees executive and branch management staff and serves as CPL’s representative to stakeholders, advisory boards, and the broader library community.

• Provide strategic leadership and vision to library staff. Partner with senior management to develop and implement innovative service models, improve efficiency, resolve operational challenges, and ensure outstanding day-to-day operations. Continuously assess emerging trends, community needs, and opportunities in the library and information services field.
• Develop proposals, reports, and strategic plans for the Library Board, City leadership, and other stakeholders. Stay informed on legal, technological, and professional developments and recommend responsive strategies that support the Library’s mission and the City’s goals.
• Represent CPL and the City in meetings with elected officials, advocacy groups, professional associations, and regional or state organizations. Cultivate partnerships with community leaders, Friends of the Library, the Library Foundation, local schools, cultural institutions, and other civic groups.
• Ensure the libraries meet all regulatory requirements, timelines, and fiscal responsibilities. Respond to public inquiries, regulatory requests, and reporting requirements in a timely and effective manner.
• Uphold the City’s organizational values, known as the CARES standards:
  Courteousness, Attentiveness, Resourcefulness, Empowerment, and Stewardship.

The City of Chesapeake offers an exceptional range of benefits. Please browse our Benefits Brochure, for a full list of benefits and employee perks. To learn more about this opportunity, including the role’s impact and the City’s library system, please review the brochure linked here.

• Educational Requirement:
  Requires an ALA accredited master’s degree in library science.
• Experience Requirement:
  Requires a minimum of ten years of related, full-time equivalent experience as a professional librarian, eight of which were in a managerial position.
• Special Certifications and Licenses:
  Requires a valid driver’s license and a driving record that is in compliance with City Driving Standards and Virginia Public Librarian Certification.

• Public Library Experience.
• Project Management Experience.

Chesapeake HR
Email:
Phone:
Address: 306 Cedar Road, Chesapeake VA, 23322

Apply Here