Manager, Library Services

Located on the Trent-Severn Waterway in the heart of the Kawartha tourism region, Peterborough is a unique community known for its exceptional quality of life and beautiful setting. Peterborough has it all – a multitude of recreational opportunities, a diverse industrial, commercial and agricultural base, quality health care and excellent schools – including two outstanding post-secondary institutions. Peterborough is just one hour from the Greater Toronto area.

Position Description

The Manager, Library Services is responsible for the effective delivery of all Library operations, including programs, community engagement, collections, customer service, safety, and facility management. This role ensures services meet community needs and align with municipal priorities while contributing to strategic planning and implementing operational strategies. The Manager drives service innovation, ensures compliance with policies and legislation, and maintains the Library as an inclusive, accessible, and forward-thinking public resource.

The Manager provides guidance to unionized leaders and staff, fostering accountability, collaboration, and service excellence. The role manages labour relations, workforce planning, and change initiatives, ensuring consistent application of collective agreements and workplace policies. The Manager also plays a vital role in community engagement, building partnerships with educational institutions, cultural organizations, and local agencies; leading public consultations; and advocating for the Library as a hub for lifelong learning, civic participation, and cultural enrichment. Through these relationships and outreach efforts, the Manager ensures library programs and services reflect the diverse needs of the community and promote accessibility, equity, inclusion, and innovation.

Qualifications and Other Pertinent Details

A four-year university degree in a relevant field such as Public Administration, Business Administration, Education, Social Sciences, or Cultural Studies is required. A Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) from a recognized university, or professional certifications such as Certified Public Library Administrator or Library Leadership and Management Certificate considered an asset. Candidates must have a minimum of five (5) years of supervisory or management experience, preferably in a public library setting and a unionized environment, with demonstrated expertise in labour relations, including negotiations, grievance resolution, and conflict management. Experience working within municipal frameworks and dual governance structures is an asset. A combination of education and experience may be considered to the satisfaction of the Library Director/CEO.

The role requires thorough knowledge of legislation and regulations, including the Ontario Public Libraries Act, Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, Employment Standards Act, collective agreements, and the Copyright Act. Strong leadership and team-building skills are essential, along with the ability to coach, motivate, and coordinate staff effectively. Proficiency in a computerized environment is required, including Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant technologies, as well as working knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets, financial systems, and databases. The successful candidate will demonstrate creativity and innovation in service delivery, a commitment to customer service and continuous improvement, respect for diverse perspectives, and adaptability to changing priorities.

Availability to attend evening and weekend meetings or events is expected. A valid driver’s license and access to a personal vehicle for business travel are required, along with a satisfactory Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check upon hire.

Salary

$109,261

Application Information

Qualified applicants are invited to submit 1 file containing a résumé and cover letter (ensure your name is in the title of the document), quoting file number 25-P-135 on the file as well as in the subject line, no later than 11:59 p.m. on January 7,2026, to, People & Culture, recruiting@peterborough.ca. 

The City of Peterborough is an organization that strives to embrace the spirit of inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive and barrier-free environment in which all individuals have access to the City's goods, services and facilities. If contacted for an employment opportunity, please advise People and Culture if you require an accommodation.

The personal information submitted for employment is collected under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and will be used to determine eligibility for employment. We thank you for your application but advise that only those selected for an interview will be contacted.