Director

Location: Freeport, Illinois
Population: 24,000

Budget: $1,400,000
Staff: 17 Full and Part-Time Employees
Application Deadline: December 12, 2025

The Board of Trustees of the Freeport Public Library (FPL) seeks qualified applicants for the position of Director. FPL serves as a vital community resource, offering access to information, technology, educational programs, and cultural enrichment in a welcoming and respectful environment. The Director is responsible for maintaining a tradition of service and stewardship, while guiding the Library's strategic growth. The successful candidate will provide professional leadership and administrative oversight for all Library operations, ensuring the continued delivery of high-quality programs and services.

The residents of Freeport appreciate good midwestern values and they respect leaders willing to lend a hand for collaborative success. This City of 24,000 people is the largest municipality in Stephenson County. There is a growing Hispanic population and the ability to speak Spanish is desired. The City and Park District maintain a variety of walking paths and outdoor venues allowing residents to connect with nature. Highland Community College is located on the west side of town, providing affordable nearby higher education opportunities, and the closest big city is Rockford, 35 miles to the east.

Freeport Public Library is a city library governed by 9 Trustees who are appointed by the Mayor. Trustees work in tandem with the Director to be good stewards of taxpayer funds, to provide and promote programs and services, and to support their dedicated staff. They are dedicated to the long-term success of the Library.

The staff is looking for a leader who will keep the positive momentum of the Library moving forward. An underutilized meeting room was recently converted to teen space-and there are final details to complete. Employees appreciate an open communicator who allows managers decision-making freedom within their own departments and who is also willing to help-out at public service desks when necessary. They desire opportunities for continuing education that will help them help patrons, especially with ever-expanding technology.

Responsibilities
Administer all operations in accordance with policies established by the Board of Trustees and applicable state and local regulations.
Develop and manage the annual budget of over $1,400,000; oversee all fiscal and personnel matters.
Supervise, evaluate, and support a staff of 17, fostering a culture of professionalism and service. 7 staff members are full-time, and 14 of them are part of AFSCME Local 3367.
Develop, recommend, and implement policies, programs, and services that meet the evolving needs of the City's residents.
Maintain positive working relationships with the Board, municipal officials, civic organizations, and community members.
Guide collection development, facilities management, and technology planning.
Promote the Library's mission, values, and goals through active community engagement and public representation.
Follow the roadmap set forth in the Library's 2024-2027 Strategic Plan.

Qualifications
Master's Degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an ALA-accredited program or the equivalent knowledge and experience.
A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible professional library work, including supervisory or administrative duties.
Demonstrated leadership ability, sound judgment, and excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Proven experience in budget preparation, staff management, and public service.
Proficiency in current technologies and an understanding of emerging trends in librarianship.
An understanding of municipal government would be beneficial.
Knowledge of the Spanish language is desirable and considered an asset, reflecting the Library's commitment to serving all members of the community.

Compensation & Benefits
The minimum annual salary is $80,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience. A comprehensive benefits package includes paid holidays, vacation and sick time, medical and dental, voluntary vision, life insurance, and enrollment in IMRF. Employees are also eligible to enroll in the City's 457 Plan.

Applications
Interested candidates should submit pdfs of a thoughtful cover letter addressing the Board of Trustees, an up-to-date resume, and the contact information for at least three professional references to freeport@deiterstodd.com. Applications must be received by Friday, December 12, 2025, for consideration.
For further information, please contact Jim Deiters at jim@deiterstodd.com or go to https://www.deiterstodd.com/freeport.

Contact: Jim Deiters, Deiters & Todd Library Consulting - jim@deiterstodd.com

The Freeport Public Library is an equal opportunity employer. The Board of Trustees values candidates who bring a variety of perspectives and proficiencies to the role.

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