The Sioux City Public Library (IA) is seeking a strategic, innovative, and relationship-driven leader to serve as its next Director. A modern, community-centered library system with three vibrant locations, the library blends trusted public service with creativity, technology, access, and connection. Serving as a destination for learning, discovery, cultural engagement, and community gathering, the library plays an essential role in the civic life of Sioux City.
With nearly 240,000 annual visitors and hundreds of programs and events each year, the library reaches residents through dynamic youth services, digital resources, public technology, workforce support, and strong community partnerships. The organization continues to invest in responsive services, welcoming spaces, and innovative programming that reflect the evolving needs and interests of Sioux City’s diverse and growing community.
Reporting to the seven-member Library Board of Trustees, the Director provides strategic vision, administrative leadership, and fiscal oversight for all library operations. The ideal candidate is an innovative, collaborative, and service-oriented leader who champions intellectual freedom, inclusivity, and clear communication while fostering a supportive, accountable, and future-focused workplace culture. Success in this role will require political acumen and the ability to communicate the library’s value, demonstrate its impact on the community, and advocate effectively for the resources needed to sustain and expand services including facility assessment and planning. The next leader will be a skilled negotiator and relationship-builder who can work strategically with the library’s Foundation to advance long-term organizational goals. The Director must also be prepared to navigate evolving fiscal realities while maintaining high-quality services and ensuring the library remains responsive to the changing needs of the community.
Sioux City, designated as a Blue Zones community and recognized with multiple “5-Star Community” quality-of-life awards, is known for its strong sense of community, focus on wellness and livability, reasonable cost of living, affordable housing, minimal traffic, and excellent educational opportunities, including several highly regarded colleges and universities in the region. Its walkable downtown features local coffee shops, a seasonal farmers’ market, and diverse dining options, while venues such as the Orpheum Theatre, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, and Tyson Events Center support a vibrant cultural scene. In nearby Loess Hills, a rare and scenic landform ideal for hiking and outdoor recreation awaits exploration. The city also offers museums, art centers, sports facilities, nature areas, bike trails, a BMX course, a tubing hill, and a new water park opening this year. With four distinct seasons and convenient access to larger metro areas, Sioux City is a welcoming, family-friendly community with an exceptional quality of life.
Key Responsibilities include providing overall direction, leadership, and management for all Library operations, services, and staff; develop and implement strategic plans, goals, and policies in collaboration with the Library Board of Trustees; prepare and administer the library’s annual budget and ensure responsible fiscal management; lead staff development and maintain a supportive, team-oriented workplace culture; advocate for the library with city officials, community partners, and state and regional library organizations; oversee facilities management, technology innovation, and capital improvement initiatives; work closely with the library’s two separate organizations: Friends of the Sioux City Public Library and the Sioux City Public Library Foundation; serve as the public face of the library—promoting its mission, vision, and value throughout the community. For a full list of responsibilities, see the links in the job posting on the Bradbury Miller Associate website (https://bradburymiller.com/open-positions/).
Compensation & Benefits: The hiring salary range is$125,000 –$140,000(with placement negotiable dependent on experience and qualifications). A comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, paid leave, participation in the Iowa Public Employees’ Retirement System (IPERS), and a $5,000 relocation stipend.
Interested candidates should submit their resume through the application portal (https://bradburymiller.com/open-positions/) by selecting the position and then the “Apply” button. For further information, contact Bradbury Miller Associates (https://bradburymiller.com/contact/). This position closes on Sunday, August 2, 2026.
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Requirements
Qualifications: Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an American Library Association-accredited program is required. Preferred qualifications include: five years of progressively responsible public library management experience, including supervision, budgeting, and strategic planning. Residency within the city limits of Sioux City isrequiredwithin six months of hire.
