Executive Director - Illinois Library Association; IL

The Illinois Library Association (ILA) is a professional membership 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization representing Illinois libraries and the millions who depend on them. Founded in 1896, ILA is the third‑largest state library association in the nation and a chapter of the American Library Association, serving more than 2,000 personal and over 500 institutional members—including public, academic, school, and special libraries, librarians, library staff, trustees, students, and library vendors.

ILA has a budget exceeding $3 million and is supported by an engaged staff of eight individuals. The organization hosts a robust lineup of professional development events each year, including the ILA Annual Conference, Reaching Forward North and South, Illinois Youth Services Institute, Directors University, and numerous webinars and legislative meet‑ups. In addition to events, ILA delivers a wide range of initiatives for members and the broader library community throughout the year.

Key initiatives include:

• A comprehensive Awards, Grants, and Scholarship program celebrating excellence across the profession and encouraging continuous education.
• iREAD, a comprehensive summer reading program developed annually by librarians, for librarians, and used by libraries across the country.
• The Fund for Illinois Libraries, supporting member libraries in their fundraising efforts.
• ILA Publications, the quarterly ILA Reporter (print and digital) and the weekly ILA Alert e‑newsletter, keeping members informed year‑round.
• Illinois Libraries Present, a statewide initiative delivering high‑quality, equitably priced online programming to member libraries and their patrons.

• Foster and sustain effective relationships with Illinois library partners, including the Illinois State Library, Library Systems (IHLS & RAILS), CARLI, AISLE, and other pertinent organizations.
• Advocate for legislative, executive, and judicial actions that enhance library services for all residents.
• Lead internal organizational effectiveness by retaining and evaluating qualified staff and cultivating a supportive organizational climate.
• Manage the association’s financial assets to ensure stability and revenue growth, provide financial trend data, and collaborate with the Executive Board, Finance and Fundraising Committees, and other units to identify and develop additional revenue sources.

The Executive Director will also provide strategic leadership in partnership with the Executive Board, ILA committees, and membership to develop and implement policies that advance the association’s mission, goals, and objectives. The role requires experience providing strategic financial oversight, managing budgets in alignment with organizational goals, executive decision‑making, strategic planning, and outstanding communication and relationship‑building skills.

• A master’s degree in Library and Information Science; a graduate degree in Business Administration, Accounting, Public Policy, or Communications; a Certified Association Executive designation; or a combination of experience and education equivalent to the responsibilities above.
• Seven or more years of applicable career experience, with at least five years of supervisory experience, or significant experience as an effective senior‑level supervisor or manager.

Salary range $150,000 – 160,000, plus an excellent benefits package.

Interested candidates should submit their resume through the application portal () by selecting the position and clicking “Apply.” For further information, contact Bradbury Miller Associates (). This position closes on Sunday, July 26, 2026.