Manager Neighbourhood Services

Company: Vancouver Public Library
Worksite: Neighbourhood Services

Requisition ID: 42735

Are you passionate about community engagement and providing exceptional public services in a library setting? The Vancouver Public Library is seeking an Exempt Neighbourhood Services Manager to oversee library operations at multiple branch locations and ensure services meet the unique needs of our diverse communities. In this key leadership role, you will manage and lead staff, plan and coordinate services at a high level, and build strong community partnerships that lead to an informed, engaged and connected city.

We're looking for an innovative, action-oriented leader who excels at collaboration, is committed to equity and access, and is excited to make a positive impact in the lives of local residents. You will work as part of a high-functioning team of four Neighbourhood Services Managers, each overseeing one of VPL's neighbourhood areas, across a network of 20 branches. This role is based out of our Central Library in downtown Vancouver, and will support branches in an assigned area with frequent in-person visits.

Your leadership will align our daily operations in branches with the Library's mission, vision and values, respond to evolving strategic priorities, and set clear and aspirational expectations for the branch leadership teams who report to you. Your leadership of strategic initiatives and projects will help us meet our strategic goals, and deliver excellent library services for our patrons.

Join us in fostering a vibrant, welcoming library experience for all!

About Us

The Vancouver Public Library (VPL) is one of Canada's largest and most innovative public library systems, serving the diverse population of Vancouver, British Columbia. With 21 locations across the city, including its iconic Central Library in downtown Vancouver, VPL offers a wide range of services, resources, and programs designed to promote literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement. The library provides access to extensive collections of books, digital media, and research tools, as well as offering public computers, digital innovation labs, meeting spaces, and events for all ages. Committed to inclusivity and access, VPL plays a vital role in fostering a love of reading, supporting learning and civic dialogue, and serving as a welcoming space for all.

Job Requirements:
Education/Qualifications:

• Master's Degree in Library and Information Science. Preference for degrees from an ALA accredited library school
• Post-secondary courses in management or business studies
• Valid British Columbia Driver's License preferred (this role requires regular travel to branches across Vancouver)

Experience:

• 3 years recent relevant experience, including a minimum of three years' experience in a supervisory position; demonstrated leadership and managerial skills.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

Knowledge:

• Library Science & Administration: Strong understanding of library management, current practices, and trends in public libraries.
• Public Service Principles: Familiarity with the mission of public libraries, including promoting literacy, access to information, and community services. A commitment to Intellectual Freedom and the non-partisan role of public libraries is required.
• Budget & Financial Management: Knowledge of budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation to ensure responsible fiscal oversight.
• Policies & Regulations: Understanding of the legal and policy landscape of public libraries, including privacy regulations, accessibility standards, and policy development.
• Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion: Knowledge of best practices for creating inclusive environments and serving diverse populations, ensuring equitable access to resources.
• Technology & Digital Services: Awareness of library technologies, including integrated library systems (ILS), digital media, and emerging trends such as maker spaces, e-resources, and intelligent materials handling systems.

Skills:

• Leadership & Supervision: Strong ability to lead teams, motivate staff, set expectations, and foster a collaborative work environment. Includes coaching, mentoring, and conflict resolution.
• Labour Relations and HR Skills: Strong understanding and competency in the areas of labour relations, performance management, and processes related to the collective agreement.
• Strategic Planning: Skilled in long-term planning, goal setting, and implementing programs and projects that align with the library's mission and community needs.
• Service Development: Ability to design, develop, and evaluate area and system-wide library services that meet the diverse needs of the community.
• Process Improvement: demonstrated ability to identify process challenges in collaboration with end-users, and support user-focused process redesign and development
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with staff, patrons, and community partners. Strong public speaking skills are a plus.
• Customer Service: Strong commitment to providing high-quality customer service, addressing patron concerns, and ensuring a welcoming environment for all.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to analyze issues, think critically, and develop creative solutions to challenges, whether operational or related to service delivery.
• Professionalism: Demonstrated level of professionalism, with high standards for integrity, accountability, and work ethic.
• Conflict Management: Excellent conflict management and problem solving skills; demonstrated business negotiation skills.

Abilities:

• Decision-Making: Demonstrated ability to make independent decisions, often under pressure, while considering both short-term and long-term impacts.
• Multitasking & Prioritization: Capable of managing multiple tasks simultaneously, balancing day-to-day operations with strategic initiatives.
• Adaptability & Flexibility: Ability to adapt to changing circumstances, whether in library technology, public service models, or community needs.
• Collaboration: Strong ability to work with local government, community organizations, and other stakeholders to enhance the library's role in the community.
• Cultural Competence: Ability to understand and respect diverse cultural perspectives and ensure library services are inclusive of all community members.
• Data Analysis: Ability to interpret usage statistics, community demographics, and program data to inform decision-making and improve services.
• Multitasking: High ability to manage multiple competing demands, setting priorities for self and others in a fast paced environment while maintaining a collaborative and positive relationships
• Change Management: ability to evolve in rapidly changing environment, while supporting staff in participating in and being open to change.

Affiliation: Exempt
Employment Type: Temporary Full Time until March 31, 2026
Salary: $111,139 - 138,924
Work Schedule: 37.5 hours per week, Monday-Friday. Flexibility in scheduling is occasionally required.

Closing date: Friday November 22 at 11:59 PM.

While the Library thanks you in advance, only those candidates being considered will be contacted.

Vancouver Public Library is committed to recruiting a diverse workforce that represents the community we so proudly serve. We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds including Indigenous Peoples, LGBTQ2S+, all genders, ethnicities, and persons with disabilities. Should you be shortlisted and require an accommodation during the selection process, please provide details to the hiring committee.

Applicants must be prepared to work at any location in the VPL system. As VPL is responsible for the well-being of its patrons, a Police Information Check clearance is a condition of employment. Please refer to for further information. Personal information collected is used in accordance with the BC Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.