County of Orange is hiring: Assistant County Librarian in Santa Ana

Assistant County Librarian (Library Deputy Director)

OPEN TO PUBLIC

DEADLINE TO APPLY

Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply immediately. The recruitment will close on Monday, December 15, 2025 at 11:59 PM (PT).

THE COUNTY

The County of Orange is a regional service provider and planning agency whose core businesses include public safety, public health, environmental protection, regional planning, public assistance, social services and aviation.

OC COMMUNITY RESOURCES (OCCR)

OC Community Resources is a multi‑faceted department composed of OC Animal Care, OC Community Services, OC Housing & Community Development, OC Parks, and OC Public Libraries. Together these programs connect residents, businesses, and visitors with essential resources that enhance quality of life in Orange County.

OC PUBLIC LIBRARIES (OCPL)

OC Public Libraries is a network of 29 branches serving 23 cities and unincorporated areas of Orange County, plus a branch for residents of Orangewood Children’s Home. Guided by a mission to Empower & Enrich Our Communities and a vision of Open Doors, Free Access, Community, OCPL provides residents with access to books, digital resources, programs, and services that foster lifelong learning, literacy, and connection.

OPPORTUNITY

Under the general direction of the County Librarian, the Assistant County Librarian provides strategic and operational leadership to ensure the consistent delivery of high‑quality library services across OC Public Libraries. This position oversees daily operations, supports systemwide initiatives, and ensures alignment with County priorities, mission, and values.

KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

Leadership and Operational Oversight

• Support the County Librarian in managing and directing OCPL’s day‑to‑day operations, ensuring efficiency, quality, and alignment with County and departmental priorities.
• Supervise and provide guidance to Administrative Managers overseeing Branch Operations, Capital Projects & Facilities, and other major service areas.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and professional excellence.

Strategic and Organizational Planning

• Assist in developing and implementing OCPL’s strategic plans, goals, and operational policies.
• Analyze system performance and community needs to recommend data‑informed strategies for improvement.
• Lead and coordinate major projects and initiatives that advance OCPL’s mission and long‑term goals.

Policy, Compliance, and Service Quality

• Oversee implementation of library policies, procedures, and service standards to ensure consistency and equity across all branches and divisions.
• Evaluate programs and services for efficiency, effectiveness, and community impact.

Project and Facilities Management

• Direct and support capital improvement projects, facility planning, and system enhancements that promote equitable and sustainable access.
• Liaise with County departments, consultants, and project partners to guide planning, budgeting, and decision‑making.
• Ensure projects are completed on schedule, within budget, and in alignment with County and community priorities.

Fiscal and Administrative Management

• Assist in developing and administering OCPL’s operating and capital budgets.
• Evaluate cost‑effectiveness, identify operational efficiencies, and ensure fiscal accountability.
• Support long‑term financial planning and resource allocation efforts.

Community and Stakeholder Engagement

• Represent OCPL at County meetings, community events, and professional forums.
• Cultivate productive relationships with City officials, community partners, and Friends of the Library groups to strengthen engagement and advocacy.

Staff Development and Training

• Provide leadership and direction for systemwide staff development and training initiatives.
• Support Chiefs and managers in aligning staff performance, growth, and succession planning with organizational goals.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s Degree in Library Science, Library and Information Science, or a closely related field from a program accredited by the American Library Association.
• Six (6) years of library management experience, including at least two (2) years of supervisory experience.
• Experience managing operations in a large, multi‑branch or countywide public library system.
• Demonstrated success in implementing operational improvements and managing budgets.
• Knowledge of Integrated Library Systems (ILS), library technology, and emerging trends.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS AND CORE COMPETENCIES

Education and Experience

• Master’s Degree in Library Science or related field.
• Six (6) years of library management experience.
• Experience in large, multi‑branch public library systems.
• Successful implementation of operational improvements.
• Knowledge of ILS, technology, and emerging trends.

Leadership and Management

• Business acumen and ethical leadership in managing public services.
• Proven ability to develop and implement strategic plans, set measurable goals, and ensure accountability.
• Strong analytical and decision‑making skills.
• Creative and results‑oriented, focused on solutions and innovation.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Political and organizational acumen working with elected officials.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, including delegation, mentoring, and staff development.
• Commitment to fiscal responsibility and effective resource management.
• Professional representation of OCPL to public, media, and partner agencies.
• Broad understanding of public library operations.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Leadership and Vision: Inspires, guides, and empowers others.
• Strategic and Analytical Thinking: Gathers, interprets, and applies data.
• Effective Communication: Clarity, persuasion, and actionable messaging.
• Collaboration and Staff Development: Builds relationships and aligns development.
• Planning and Organization: Sets priorities, allocates resources, manages deadlines.
• Sound Judgment and Problem Solving: Evaluates complex issues and makes well‑reasoned decisions.