Library Branch Manager

Library Branch Manager

The Enoch Pratt Library has an opening for a Library Branch Manager. The Branch Manager oversees all aspects of branch operations and helps define its long-term vision. You will build a team at the branch, develop programs based on community needs, and work closely with local partners.

Baltimore's top five languages among English Language Learners are Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, French, and Korean. Applicants who are bilingual in English and any of these or other languages are encouraged to apply.

This on-site position requires a flexible schedule, including evenings and Saturdays, with potential assignments at other branches.

Department: Neighborhood Library Services

Location: 1531 West North Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21217 (Pennsylvania Ave branch)

Salary: $81,097 to $105,341 per year

Job Type: On-site Full-Time, Benefits Included

Summary of Duties:

Leadership & Operations

• Manage daily branch operations and ensure quality service.
• Supervise, train, and support staff to foster an inclusive, customer-focused environment.
• Coordinate scheduling, programming, and facility needs with internal teams and external partners.
• Participate in division-wide planning, hiring, and initiatives.

Community Engagement & Partnerships

• Serve as the main contact for local residents, schools, and organizations.
• Represent the branch at local meetings and events.
• Collaborate on joint programs and shared use of community space.
• Support system-wide outreach efforts such as Social Work in the Library and Lawyer in the Library.

Programs & Innovation

• Develop responsive programs for all ages, including digital access, job support, and youth services.
• Encourage creative use of technology and flexible spaces.
• Lead a team committed to high-quality, community-based service.

Customer Service & Support

• Assist patrons with reference needs, catalog searches, devices, and digital tools.
• Deliver respectful, equity-centered service in person and online.

Strategic Impact

• Use data and feedback to guide decisions and measure success.
• Align branch goals with the Library's Strategic Plan and branch's community vision.
• Participate in system-wide leadership activities.

Minimum Requirements:

• Masters in Library Science (MLS or MLIS) from an American Library Association (ALA) accredited college or university.
• Public Librarian Certificate, or requirements necessary to apply for a Maryland Public Librarian Certificate, within 90 days of starting employment.
• Five years of related public library experience with progressive responsibilities.
• Two years of supervisory experience.
• Current Maryland Librarian Certification, or certification within 1 year of hire.
• Physical Requirements: Physical exertion such as standing; or recurring activities such as bending, crouching, reaching; pushing loaded book trucks; or recurring lifting of moderately heavy items such as boxes of books or journals.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with Baltimore or similar urban neighborhoods.
• Fluency in Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, French, Korean, or other foreign languages.
• Multicultural experience.
• Experience with trauma-informed or restorative practices.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Commitment to public service, urban community development, racial equity, and inclusive access to resources.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships at all levels of staff and with external partners.
• Collaborative, adaptable, and self-directed with a flexible and energetic approach to leadership.
• Experience using digital tools, integrated library systems (ILS), and emerging technologies, with the ability to train others.
• Comfortable navigating and troubleshooting public-facing technology (e.g., computers, printing, digital platforms).
• Skilled in delivering equitable, inclusive, and trauma-informed customer service in an urban setting.

Other Duties: Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Additional Notes: Full-time position with a flexible schedule, including some evenings and Saturdays to support library programs and operations.

May require occasional assignments at other branches or locations.

Position of Trust: Those under final consideration for appointment will be required to authorize the release of and successfully complete a criminal conviction check.

Please Attach Your Resume To Be Considered.

THE ENOCH PRATT FREE LIBRARY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER