Metropolitan New York Library Council is hiring: Chief Operating Officer – Allen

Chief Operating Officer – Allen County Public Library (IN)

Fort Wayne, Indiana | Full Time | In Person
Salary: $100,000 – $120,000 per year

Overview

The Allen County Public Library (ACPL) has served northeast Indiana for over 135 years with a system of a main library, thirteen branches, and a data center. ACPL supports 1.7 million visitors annually, has a $37 million budget, and employs 324 full‑time staff. As strategic leader of ACPL, the Chief Operating Officer will translate the library’s vision into execution, ensuring that systems, services, and internal operations advance the mission. The COO will report directly to the Executive Director and will be a visible, high‑impact leader committed to transparency, consistency, and collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as second‑in‑command to the Executive Director with delegated authority for departmental and cross‑departmental initiatives.
• Lead operational planning aligned to ACPL’s strategic, facilities, and technology goals.
• Supervise a high‑performing leadership team; oversee budget, performance metrics, and day‑to‑day service delivery.
• Drive ongoing evaluation and improvement of services, staffing, projects, and resource allocation.
• Coordinate capital and facilities planning, ensuring alignment with ACPL’s Facility Master Plan.
• Represent the Library in system‑wide discussions, cross‑departmental initiatives, and external partnerships.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and professional best practices.
• Act as lead in the Executive Director’s absence.

Qualifications

A master’s degree in library or information sciences from an ALA‑accredited institution is required, along with a minimum of five (5) years of public library managerial experience that includes supervisory responsibilities for mid‑to‑upper‑level managers. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. Requirements also include obtaining State Library Certification at an LC2 level within one (1) year, and possessing a valid driver’s license. Experience managing multiple departments in complex organizations, leading strategic, resource, and staff planning, and familiarity with capital planning, technology integration, and construction or renovation projects are highly desired.

Compensation

Salary range of $100,000 – $120,000 (placement negotiable based on experience and qualifications). The package includes a comprehensive benefits program.

Application Details

Interested candidates should submit their resume through the application portal: https://bradburymiller.com/current-clients/ and select the position, then click the “Apply” button. The position closes on Sunday, November 30, 2025.

Why ACPL?

ACPL is headquartered in Fort Wayne, a dynamic city recognized as Indiana’s first Certified Welcoming Community. The region offers a “big‑city, small‑town” sense of community, high‑quality education, vibrant neighborhoods, and extensive parks and trail systems.