Empower People and Programs Through Library Leadership
Library Manager, Castlewood and Southglenn
Are you a relationship-driven leader who thrives in community-centered spaces? Do you enjoy mentoring strong teams and balancing daily operational needs with long-term goals? Arapahoe Libraries is seeking a Library Manager to lead two vibrant branches and guide staff in delivering welcoming, innovative, and inclusive public service.
This leadership role focuses on strengthening branch-level operations, empowering staff, and fostering strong connections with patrons of all ages. You'll be instrumental in ensuring multiple libraries continue to serve as trusted, dynamic resources for learning, creativity, and community engagement.
About the Role
This position oversees two unique and highly engaged library locations, one offering a popular makerspace and another embedded in a bustling outdoor shopping mall. Each branch serves diverse community members including families, students, professionals, and lifelong learners.
In partnership with supervisors and librarians at both locations, you'll provide strategic and operational leadership, support consistent service delivery, and build a workplace culture grounded in collaboration, equity, and learning. These libraries each have their own identity and community focus, and your leadership will help ensure they thrive while working in harmony with district-wide priorities.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic and Operational Leadership
- Set direction and priorities for branch services and operations.
- Collaborate with staff, stakeholders, and patrons to ensure inclusive and relevant services.
- Foster innovation and responsiveness in alignment with district-wide strategies.
Team Management and Development
- Lead and support a team of library supervisors and librarians across both locations.
- Promote communication, accountability, and growth through effective supervision and mentorship.
- Build team culture through transparency, shared purpose, and continuous learning.
Project Management
- Participate in and lead library system initiatives focused on service improvements and user engagement.
- Align projects with district goals and support collaborative implementation across teams.
Resource and Budget Coordination
- Assist with planning and overseeing branch operating budgets.
- Forecast staffing and operational needs to maintain high-quality, consistent service.
What You'll Bring
Collaborative Leadership - You know how to bring teams together, nurture partnerships, and lead with transparency.
Strategic Thinking with Operational Agility - You can set long-term direction while managing day-to-day operations effectively.
Supportive Supervision - You prioritize professional growth, clear communication, and accountability across teams.
Equity-Focused Perspective - You understand the importance of inclusive service and representation in public libraries.
Project and Change Management Skills - You are organized, outcomes-driven, and able to guide teams through transitions with purpose and care.
Qualifications
Required:
- At least five years of supervisory or management experience in a library setting
- Master's in Library and Information Science (MLIS/MLS), or enrollment within six months and completion within three years (or 10+ years library service experience with commitment to complete MLIS/MLS within two years)
- Demonstrated success in hiring, coaching, and evaluating team members
- Proficiency with Microsoft 365 and digital collaboration tools
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and travel between locations
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Commitment to inclusive leadership and continuous improvement
Preferred:
- Two or more years of experience in project management
- Experience with budget management and financial planning
- Background in training, mentoring, or organizational development
Who We Are
At Arapahoe Libraries, we are a forward-thinking, inclusive organization committed to enriching lives and strengthening our community. Guided by our core values-collaboration, equity, and innovation-we believe in the power of curiosity and lifelong learning. Our motto, Let's Find Out, reflects our spirit of exploration and shared discovery.
Let's Find Out Together
This is more than a leadership opportunity; it's your chance to shape how library services evolve to meet the needs of multiple vibrant, diverse communities. If you're passionate about empowering others, delivering outstanding service, and leading with heart and clarity, we want to hear from you.
Inclusion and diversity are part of our values at Arapahoe Libraries. Qualified applicants who represent the diversities of the communities we serve are encouraged to apply.
For more information, or to apply now, you must go to the website below. Please DO NOT email your resume to us as we only accept applications through our website.
https://arapahoelibraries.applicantpro.com/jobs/3760830-2186.html
Health Insurance, Long-term and Short-term disability program, Voluntary Life Insurance, Retirement Plan, Paid Parental Leave, Time Off Programs (vacation, holidays, sick)
Established in 1966, the Arapahoe Library District serves more than 200,000 residents living in Arapahoe County. Arapahoe County and other major suburban counties make up the greater metropolitan area surrounding Denver, Colorado. The Arapahoe Library District operates eight branch libraries, including mobile library services, and a library at the County Detention Center, funded by the Arapahoe County Sheriff's Department. A seven-member Board of Trustees sets the library budget and determines policy.
External Job Ad
https://arapahoelibraries.applicantpro.com/jobs/3760830-2186.html
APPLY ONLINE at http://arapahoelibraries.applicantpro.com/jobs/ and select the position you are interested in. Click on “Apply Now” and create a login that will allow you to submit interest for any open position. You may also attach a resum