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/).

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. 

Requirements

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.