City Librarian/Chief Executive Officer

Description

Toronto Public Library (TPL), North America’s largest and busiest urban public library system, is seeking an exceptional leader to shape the future of a globally recognized institution. With a team of 2,500 dedicated professionals and a total operating and capital budget of approximately $280 million, TPL empowers Torontonians to thrive in the digital age through seamless access to technology, lifelong learning, and diverse cultural experiences. Serving as a cornerstone of community resilience and renewal, TPL drives innovation and fosters equity in one of the world’s most dynamic and diverse cities.  This is a defining moment to lead during a pivotal time for libraries. As societal systems adapt to rapid technological disruption and economic and social transformations, libraries are increasingly recognized as vital engines of knowledge, creativity, social connections and community impact. 

The new City Librarian/Chief Executive Officer will be instrumental in building on TPL’s legacy, ensuring it continues to set the standard as an open, innovative, inclusive, and transformative public institution.  Serving as the visionary leader of the Toronto Public Library, the City Librarian will provide strategic leadership and operational direction, working closely with the Board and an experienced executive team, steering the development and implementation of innovative priorities and programs that align with the Board-approved vision, strategic goals, and planning initiatives. A steadfast champion of intellectual freedom, the City Librarian will safeguard the principles of free access to information and diversity of thought, reinforcing the Library’s role as a defender of democratic values. By fostering partnerships across public, private, and community sectors, the City Librarian will amplify the library’s impact both locally and globally. Central to this role is advancing equity, inclusion, and accessibility strategies that reflect Toronto’s communities, while maintaining a focus on operational excellence and financial sustainability. The City Librarian will also manage and strengthen relationships with a broad range of stakeholders, including the Toronto Public Library Foundation, ensuring alignment and collaboration to maximize community impact and broaden sustainable funding.

This role demands a dynamic leader with the vision, knowledge, expertise, and values to propel the Toronto Public Library to the forefront of global library innovation while remaining deeply connected and committed to the needs of the community it serves.  The ideal candidate is a dynamic and transformative leader with extensive senior leadership experience in a complex, unionized, urban library system or similarly complex organization. You possess a deep understanding of managing large-scale operations and capital projects, strategic planning, technology, digital and financial stewardship. Adept at navigating diverse stakeholder relationships and political dynamics, you bring a reputation for integrity and impactful leadership. Valuing collaboration, fostering employee growth, and building cohesive teams while delegating responsibility and authority effectively you are a passionate advocate for the role of libraries in driving social transformation you remain deeply connected to the communities you serve. 

To Apply

To fill this position Toronto Public Library has partnered with leadership advisory firm Odgers Berndtson. Applications are encouraged immediately and should be submitted online ideally by February 28, 2025 at https://careers.odgersberndtson.com/en-ca/30033

We thank all those who express an interest, however only those chosen for further development will be contacted.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

The Toronto Public Library is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, upon request, accommodation will be provided by both Odgers Berndtson and the Toronto Public Library throughout the recruitment, selection and/or assessment process to applicants with disabilities.