Assistant City Librarian

City of Torrance•Torrance, CA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The City of Torrance recognizes the principles of diversity and inclusion, and strives to ensure equal opportunities for its workforce, applicants and community members. The City of Torrance invites your interest in the position of Assistant City Librarian! The mission of the Community Services Department is to enrich the community through the provision of recreational, cultural, and educational opportunities for persons of all abilities. The Torrance Public Library provides outstanding services, exceptional resources, and accessible spaces to support an independent, literate, and informed community. The Library Services Division dedicates itself to providing a diverse range of educational resources that reflect community needs. It remains committed to offering materials, programs, and services that respond to the interests and priorities of the community. The Assistant City Librarian serves as a key member of the Library’s leadership team, reporting directly to the City Librarian and overseeing a team of up to five staff. This position is responsible for strategic program management, budget oversight, daily operations, staff supervision and development, and fostering positive employee relations, while also serving as a liaison to the community. Assistant City Librarians support the Library Services Division’s mission to deliver responsive, high-quality educational resources and programs aligned with community needs. Working collaboratively with the City Librarian and other leadership staff, they help implement the Library’s strategic plan and ensure exceptional patron services across all service areas. The role requires flexibility to function in either Public Services or Operations and to act on behalf of the City Librarian when needed. In the Operations area, responsibilities include oversight of technology systems and automation, digital services and web management, collection development, technical and circulation services, facilities and safety management, emergency preparedness, and budget administration. In Public Services, the role focuses on branch supervision, adult and youth programming, community outreach, partnerships with community groups and commissions, grant-supported services, and volunteer coordination. Overall, the Assistant City Librarian plays a critical role in advancing library services, strengthening community connections, and ensuring efficient, innovative, and customer-focused operations. The City offers ample opportunities for career growth throughout the organization with its 14 departments, which work together to provide quality service, enriching programs, and exciting events to keep the community safe and thriving. The City also proudly offers exceptional employee benefits and perks!

Requirements

Four years of professional library experience, including at least two years of experience supervising professional library staff
A Master of Library Science or Master of Library and Information Science degree from an ALA accredited college or university
Must possess and maintain an appropriate, valid California driver's license
Proven experience in superior supervisory and change management skills
Adept at working with all City and community interest groups
An inspiring team-builder with steadfast integrity who possesses an adaptable management style
High self-awareness and effectiveness in managing workplace relationships
Talented at mentoring and developing staff with current public library trends and forecasts
Experienced in employee relations
Knowledgeable in public library operations
Resourceful when seeking and managing library funding
Effective written and oral communication skills
Outstanding interpersonal skills
Strong customer service orientation
Recognize the need for political sensitivity
Ability to work with shifting organizational priorities