Interim Library Director, Troy Public Library, (Troy, NY)

Posted April 21, 2026

The Troy Public Library has served the Capital Region community for over a century. It’s home to two buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Hart Building is a stunning American Renaissance landmark that opened in 1897, and it anchors the library’s downtown presence. The Lansingburgh Branch is a historic 1820 academy building that has served the “Burgh” since 1939. Together, these locations serve a diverse, passionate community that shows up for its library.

Troy Public Library is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply. We recognize that library leadership experience takes many forms. If you are excited about this opportunity and believe your skills and experience are a strong match, we encourage you to apply, even if you do not meet every listed qualification. We are seeking an experienced library professional to serve as Interim Library Director during a transitional period of approximately 6–12 months. The library’s 2026 operating budget is $2,499,345, and it has approximately 30 full and part-time staff. The library is currently managing more than $2 million in active capital improvement projects across both facilities.

The Interim Director reports directly to the Board of Trustees. The immediate priority for the Director will be to stabilize day-to-day operations and ensure continuity of service for patrons, staff, and facilities. From that foundation, the Interim Director will work with the Board to strengthen financial systems and internal controls and build the institutional infrastructure (policies, SOPs, and workflows) that will set the permanent Director up for success. Equally important is the people-focused side of that work: the staff needs strong, consistent leadership grounded in curiosity and kindness, meaningful professional development, and a cohesive, supportive workplace culture.

Compensation: This is a contract position with a minimum engagement of six months. Following the
initial term, the engagement may be renewed on a month-to-month basis by mutual
agreement. At the conclusion of the interim period, the library will conduct a full search
for a permanent Director.

Weekly Rate: $1,730–$2,020 per week, commensurate with experience.
Upon selection of an appropriate candidate, a written agreement will be executed outlining the scope of duties and the terms and conditions of the engagement.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: MLS or MLIS from an ALA-accredited institution; AND
Certification: Current NYS Public Librarian’s Professional Certificate; AND
Experience: At least five (5) years of progressively responsible library experience, including at least three (3) years in an administrative or supervisory capacity; AND
Transportation: Must be authorized to legally operate a motor vehicle or able to make alternative arrangements for travel between both library locations.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience leading teams through periods of organizational transition;
Familiarity with public sector labor relations and collective bargaining;
Experience in preparing and managing a public library budget;
Experience managing facilities projects and capital grants;
Experience with urban public library service;
Demonstrated integrity and transparency in the management of public funds.

Distinguishing Features of the Position: The Interim Director provides day-to-day operational leadership for all library services, personnel, and facilities. The Board of Trustees retains responsibility for vision, strategic direction, and policy authority; the Interim Director serves as the Board’s primary operational partner, keeping the Board fully informed and ensuring that Board-established priorities are carried out effectively. The Interim Director also works with The Friends of the Troy Public Library, the Troy Public Library Foundation, the Upper Hudson Library System, civic leaders, and community partners to ensure responsive, equitable public service.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Personal Characteristics:

Comprehensive knowledge of library administration, organization, policies, and practices; thorough knowledge of modern library science, digital services, and emerging technologies;
Strong leadership, management, and organizational skills; ability to prioritize, delegate effectively, anticipate challenges, and follow through on commitments;
Demonstrated ability to build consensus, manage collaboratively, train and motivate staff, and plan and evaluate complex projects and initiatives;
Ability to communicate clearly and transparently with the Board, staff, and community, tailoring message and tone to each audience; commitment to professional presence and accessibility;
Demonstrated commitment to fiscal transparency and adherence to
Board-established financial policies; commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in library service;
Integrity, accountability, sound judgment, and a commitment to public service and the library’s mission.

To view more responsibilities and the full job posting, please visit: https://www.thetroylibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2026_Interim-Library-Director_Job-Description.pdf

How to Apply:

Submit your resume and cover letter to the Troy Public Library Board of Trustees at [email protected] with the subject line: “Candidate for Interim Director”.