Director - East Lansing Public Library (MI)

Director - East Lansing Public Library (MI)

The East Lansing Public Library Board of Trustees (MI) is seeking a thoughtful, highly communicative Director to bring the library's strategic priorities to life, inspire and support an engaged staff, and lead impactful service for the vibrant East Lansing community. ELPL is a city library supported by a dedicated, voter-approved millage (renewed for 10 years in November 2022 with 85% voter support) and serves patrons of all ages. Operating from a single 28,500-square-foot facility, a staff of 18.8 FTE delivers a wide range of dynamic programs and services, including a Maker Studio, dedicated STEAM/STEM library staff, strong and mutually beneficial partnerships with an active and vibrant Friends of the ELPL organization, Michigan State University, and others as well as sustained outreach efforts that connect the library meaningfully with the community.

Reporting to a seven-member Board of Trustees, the next Library Director will be a steady, collaborative leader who will build upon the strong relationships among our dedicated staff, engaged community, and supportive board. Expressing calm leadership, this individual will carry on the existing foundational work of unifying stakeholders. Key initiatives of this role include contributing as a collaborative participant who represents the library in the community, building consensus among various stakeholders for the library, and communicating the vision and values of the library both internally and outwardly to the people of East Lansing.

East Lansing is directly adjacent to Lansing, the Capital City of Michigan. Its proximity to both the state capital and Michigan State University is beneficial to the community, as it is conveniently situated in the middle of the state. East Lansing is recognized nationally for its efforts in cultivating economic development, fostering support for local businesses, and providing access to 10,000 college graduates annually. With a vibrant downtown and a diverse community of international residents, East Lansing is home to 25 different neighborhoods and hosts over fifty community events a year to provide exciting arts and cultural events to residents and visitors alike. Notable attractions include the Wharton Center for the Arts (on MSU's campus), The Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum, The Family Aquatic Center, and downtown East Lansing, which offers Albert El Fresco, a pedestrian centric space for people to gather and support local businesses, and open-air public space hosting rotating art displays in addition to delicious dining and unique retail shops.

Responsibilities: The ideal candidate oversees five direct reports and the library's core operations by implementing the strategic plan; ensuring a high-quality, community-responsive physical and digital collection; managing facilities and spaces; and maintaining and advancing the library's technological infrastructure, including active participation in the statewide resource-sharing program. Collaborates with the City of East Lansing Chief Financial Officer and city officials to develop and manage the annual budget; implement cost-containment strategies; ensure compliance with purchasing and contract requirements; and support long-term financial planning, including levies and bond initiatives. Leads recruitment, development, and retention while fostering a diverse, inclusive, and high-performing culture; strategically aligns staff roles with community needs and individual strengths; supports continuous learning through intentional planning and budgeting; manages union relationships effectively; and actively incorporates staff input to advance the library's vision and progressive management practices. Builds deep understanding of the East Lansing community to advance equitable, responsive services; strengthens partnerships and engagement at local, regional, and national levels; and works closely with the Board of Trustees through active participation, policy development, strategic and succession planning, budget presentation, and organizational alignment to ensure effective execution of Board-endorsed priorities. For a full listing of responsibilities, see the linked job description on the Bradbury Miller Associates website (https://bradburymiller.com/current-clients/).

Compensation: The hiring salary range is $103,975.30 - $145,676.96 (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, March 1, 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: The minimum qualifications for this role include a master's degree in library science and/or information science from an ALA-accredited institution; possession of a State of Michigan Level One Director Certification (or possess the qualifications to achieve such within six months); a minimum of four years of professional library experience. Executive or senior level management in public libraries, experience serving diverse communities, and union experience are preferred.

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