Director - Public Libraries of Saginaw (MI)

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/).

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.

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.

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