Library Programs Manager

The Library Programs Manager position will be responsible for overseeing the Programs Department and will play a key leadership role in supporting systemwide services across OC Public Libraries’ 29 branches. This position manages a team that implements systemwide programming, initiatives, grants, and partnerships that expand access to library services and strengthen community engagement. The Library Programs Manager plans, coordinates, and evaluates library programs and projects, including oversight of the OC Read literacy division. This role is responsible for the department’s operating budget, including grant management, ensuring compliance with grant requirements and reporting time periods.

The Library Programs Manager's duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

• Serve on OC Public Libraries’ administrative team to develop systemwide procedures, daily operational processes, and strategic initiatives.
• Lead and support staff in achieving OCPL’s vision, mission, and organizational goals.
• Select, supervise, train, and evaluate assigned staff; delegate tasks and coordinate work schedules.
• Oversee OC Read, OCPL’s literacy division, including maintaining statewide literacy network relationships and providing strategic departmental leadership.
• Write, secure, and manage library-related grants, including use of grant systems and grant management platforms; prepare required financial and narrative reports.
• Research, design, and implement new library programs and services.
• Plan and coordinate large-scale, systemwide programs such as Summer and Winter Reading, One County One Book, and Slice of Literary Orange.
• Build and maintain strategic partnerships with the California State Library and community organizations to enhance access and engagement.
• Develop marketing plans and create promotional materials, media content, and social media campaigns for systemwide initiatives.
• Support and provide guidance to OCPL committees and work groups.
• Promote open communication; prepare written guidance and deliver in-person training for staff on programming standards, storytimes, reading programs, and related areas.
• Mentor and coach staff to develop innovative programs and use outcome-based evaluation.
• Manage program budgets; coordinate contracts, procurement processes, and vendor payments.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

The ideal candidate's application will demonstrate extensive experience, knowledge, and/or ability in the following core competencies:
  
Library Expertise 

• Experience working within a diverse, multi-branch library system.
• Experience securing and managing library-related grants.
• Knowledge and hands-on experience with Integrated Library Systems (ILS).
• Experience coordinating large, system-wide programs for diverse audiences.
• Knowledge of current library trends, including marketing and social media practices.
• Demonstrates flexibility and adaptability in response to shifting priorities, fiscal changes, and political conditions.
• Broad public services background across multiple key library service areas.

Effective Written and Oral Communication

• Writes clear, persuasive proposals, reports, and grant documents aligned with organizational goals and requirements.
• Produces accurate, timely documentation to support evaluation, budgeting, and compliance.
• Adapts writing style, tone, and format for professional, instructional, or promotional needs.
• Encourages open information sharing across the organization and communicates effectively with all levels of staff.
• Builds consensus among diverse groups while remaining open to compromise.
• Listens actively and responds empathetically.
• Presents ideas and complex information clearly, concisely, and logically in both oral and written formats.
• Ensures timely, appropriate communication with stakeholders.
• Applies current technical concepts and best practices to communication tasks and shares relevant knowledge with others.

Problem Solving & Analysis

• Identifies opportunities, removes barriers to change, and integrates new ideas into solutions.
• Makes sound decisions using limited or complex information while upholding public service ethics.
• Gathers, analyzes, and applies data effectively to support informed, evidence-based decisions.
• Develops and evaluates alternative solutions and adapts approaches as needed.
• Demonstrates creativity, innovation, and effective collaboration in resolving problems.

Project Management/ Planning & Organization

• Demonstrates strong fiscal management skills by effectively overseeing program budgets, monitoring expenditures, and maintaining compliance with County policies.
• Demonstrates experience coordinating procurement processes, developing contracts, and managing vendor relationships.
• Establishes project goals that align with County and departmental priorities.
• Plans and secures necessary resources to ensure successful project completion.
• Adapts effectively to change and guides the team through shifting priorities.
• Maintains organized work practices and strong attention to detail.
• Demonstrates cost-conscious decision-making and responsible use of resources.
• Delegates tasks clearly, sets expectations, and monitors progress to ensure results.

Leadership/Supervision

• Lead confidently by taking personal responsibility for decisions and actions.
• Aligns organizational vision with County strategic goals and department business objectives.
• Uses creativity and innovation in achieving business objectives. 
• Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with coworkers, staff, community members and the public.

• Aligns staff performance with organizational goals and clearly communicates roles, responsibilities, and expectations.
• Motivates and develops employees, recognizes accomplishments, offers training, learning opportunities, and supports staff in achieving high performance. 
• Supports a learning environment where mistakes are used as opportunities for growth.
• Provides timely, honest feedback and uses the County’s performance management system effectively.
• Allocates resources appropriately, sets direction, and holds staff accountable for results.
• Administers discipline fairly and consistently when necessary.

RECRUITMENT PROCESS

EMAIL NOTIFICATION:

Email is the primary form of notification during the recruitment process. Please ensure your correct email address is included in our application and use only one email account.

NOTE: User accounts are established for one person only and should not be shared with another person. Multiple applications with multiple users may jeopardize your status in the recruitment process for any positions for which you apply.

Candidates will be notified regarding their status as the recruitment proceeds via email through the GovernmentJobs.com site. Please check your email folders, including spam/junk folders, and/or accept emails ending with "governmentjobs.com" and "ocgov.com." If your email address should change, please update your profile at www.governmentjobs.com.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Click here for additional Frequently Asked Questions.
 
For specific information pertaining to this recruitment, contact Rula Dabit at 714.480.2884 or rula.dabit@occr.ocgov.com.