Director - Public Libraries of Saginaw (MI)
Job Description:
Director – Public Libraries of Saginaw (MI)
The Public Libraries of Saginaw (MI) Board of Trustees seeks a thoughtful,
community-centered leader to serve as its next Director. The system includes
four neighborhood branches—each with deep roots in their communities—and a
bookmobile that expands access across the service area. At the heart of the
system is the historic Hoyt Library, home to a well-regarded Local History and
Genealogy department. With 37 FTE and a staff known for their dedication, the
library provides a strong mix of physical and digital resources designed to
serve Saginaw’s diverse population. Programming spans all ages and interests,
including well-established children’s events like the First Grade Reading
Celebrations, and a wide range of offerings that reflect and engage the
community. The library enjoys public support and is recognized as a trusted
institution within the city. Key initiatives for the next director include
implementing and refining policies, fostering a collaborative internal culture
that supports staff creativity, and leading the implementation and execution of
a new strategic plan.
Saginaw is located in Michigan’s Great Lakes Bay region and
is part of the Tri-Cities area, along with Midland and Bay City. The city
offers affordable living and a small-town feel paired with a vibrant,
revitalized downtown cultural and entertainment scene. The community features a
symphony orchestra, choral group, community theater, multiple museums and art
exhibits, and numerous cultural institutions—including Michigan's only
authentic Japanese Tea House. Local sports teams add to the appeal with local hockey
and baseball teams and a new indoor football team coming soon. Saginaw hosts
local festivals and celebrations and supports the excellent parks and
recreation amenities. Ongoing investments in education and healthcare—including
Central Michigan University’s new downtown medical school—reinforce its
reputation as an affordable, well-located community with much to offer.
Responsibilities: The ideal candidate will work closely with the Library Board
to support effective governance; manage and administer a large, complex budget
ensuring responsible stewardship of public funds; provide strategic vision and
long-term planning for a library system serving diverse communities; lead the
development and implementation of system-wide goals, policies and service
priorities; serve as the primary public representative and spokesperson for the
library; build strong partnerships with community organizations, schools,
cultural institutions and government agencies; direct and oversee all library
operations; establish and monitor performance metrics and service standards;
lead, mentor and support a large, diverse workforce of professional, technical
and support staff; oversee labor relations, organizational structure and
succession planning; oversee facilities planning, capital projects and
maintenance; and prepare reports, recommendations and policy proposals for
board consideration. For a full list of responsibilities, see the links in the
job posting on the Bradbury Miller Associate website (https://bradburymiller.com/current-clients/).
Qualifications: A master's degree in library science from an ALA-accredited
library school, demonstrated prior experience serving at an executive level in
a public library system, and proven experience in developing and managing large
operating and capital budgets, including the management of public funds is
required. Experience leading a large, multi-branch library system, a record of
effective community engagement, advocacy and partnership-building, demonstrated
success leading a diverse workforce, and experience with capital planning,
fundraising and grant administration are highly desired.
Compensation: The hiring salary range is $95,000 – $110,000 (with
placement negotiable dependent on experience and qualifications) and an
excellent fringe benefits package.
Interested candidates should submit their resume through the application
portal
(https://bradburymiller.com/current-clients/) by selecting the position and
then the “Apply” button. For further information, contact Bradbury Miller Associates (https://bradburymiller.com/). This
position closes on Sunday, April 5, 2026.
Visit our website (https://bradburymiller.com/current-clients/)
to access the latest version of this announcement in full, along with all
related links.
Application link or email address: https://bradburymiller.com/current-clients/
Salary range or hourly wage: $95000-$110000
MLS required: Yes, an MLS is required.
Job focus: Administration/Management
Work schedule: Full-Time