The American Library Association (ALA) seeks a dynamic, innovative, and experienced leader to serve as its Executive Director.
Libraries are an iconic feature of American life and a crucial infrastructure of society. They introduce users to the joy of learning and the magic of books, offer a safe and productive haven for study, research, and reflection, and transform users’ lives through educational programs, services, and community resources. Not only have America’s libraries changed the lives of many of their users, but they also themselves have transformed as societal needs, technology, and other forces in the economy have dramatically reshaped their role and nature. In the wake of recent attacks on libraries and free speech, ALA undertakes this search at a time of urgency and relevancy unmatched in recent history. A complex organization with deep reach across libraries of all types, ALA seeks a strategic, visionary, operational leader and team builder who, at this moment post-pandemic, will embrace the unique opportunity to realign ALA as the premier association for the library field and community.
Founded in 1876 and soon to enter its 150th year, ALA is the world’s oldest and largest library association. The member-driven Association promotes the work of libraries and the value of professional library and information science education and advocates for issues and values important to the field and a free and open information society. The Association achieves these goals through its programs, publications, conferences, professional development, and outreach work. ALA supports libraries, protects the freedom to read, advocates for a free and open information society, accredits professional library degree programs, and serves as a major hub of resources for library workers and professionals in adjacent fields, such as archivists, curators, and historians. The Association, headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with a public policy and advocacy office in Washington, DC, represents approximately 48,000 personal and organizational members who take great pride in their profession. It has a staff of 200 and an annual budget of $50 million.
The Executive Director is appointed by and reports to the Executive Board, executes policies and directives of the Board, and oversees ALA’s staff, its programs, and operations over four locations in IL, DC, CT, and PA. As the chief executive officer of the organization, the Executive Director collaborates with volunteer leaders and professional staff to develop and implement strategic and operational goals to realize the organization’s mission “to provide leadership for the development, promotion, and improvement of library and information services and the profession of librarianship in order to enhance learning and ensure access to information for all”. ALA must continue to innovate, grow, and develop membership engagement, working with members and staff to achieve critical goals. The Executive Director will prioritize financial and operational strength, internal and external collaborations, and the valuable work of ALA members and staff that move the Association forward. The Executive Director works closely with the Executive Board to shape the strategic direction and initiatives of the ALA; retains and expands the member base; grows the influence of the Association; solidifies and expands earned, contributed, and in- kind income; and launches plans to augment and reimagine the programmatic offerings and member benefits of ALA.
The successful candidate must possess the skills and experience to lead the ALA, an established organization with high visibility and historic continuity, into its next chapter. In collaboration with the Executive Board and members, the new Executive Director will develop and communicate a strategic vision for the organization, and explore and identify innovative revenue models that support ALA’s next era. The Executive Director will partner with the ALA President and the Board to represent the organization, enthusiastically and persuasively forge meaningful partnerships, and advocate for ALA among the library community, policymakers, industry groups, and funding organizations.
ALA offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on the future of libraries and society. If you're ready to lead with vision and passion, we invite you to apply.
The salary range for this position is $275,000-$325,000, commensurate with relevant experience. This is an in-person role based in the ALA Chicago office.
ALA has engaged Isaacson, Miller, a national executive search firm, to assist with this important search. Evaluation of prospective candidates will begin immediately. Confidential inquiries, nominations, and applications can be submitted electronically to:
