The Board of Trustees for Tompkins County Public Library, in cooperation with Tompkins County Civil Service, has launched a search for a new Director for the historic library in the heart of New York’s Finger Lakes.

The new Director will be tasked with shaping programs, service, and strategic direction for a library that was founded in 1864 by Ezra Cornell, with the goal of making knowledge freely available to everyone. At a time when libraries are under threat nationwide, the new Director will be critical to upholding the mission, cultural heritage and public trust for this vital institution.

Minimum qualifications: 

• Graduation from an ALA accredited school or program with a graduate degree in library or information studies
• Possession of, or eligibility for, a New York State Public Librarian’s Professional Certificate
• Eight years of satisfactory professional library experience in a library of recognized standing, two years of which must have been in an administrative capacity

The ideal candidate will also be a community builder, a strong communicator, and an innovative and visionary leader dedicated to upholding the principles of librarianship.

To be considered, candidates must apply through the Tompkins County Human Resources website by May 14, 2025 and complete a Civil Service examination.

The Board of Trustees is in the process of creating a selection committee which will be comprised of Trustees, Library Staff and other Library Stakeholders. The goal is to have a new director in place by October 1, 2025.

Tompkins County Public Library is committed to equity and inclusion. Those with similar values are encouraged to apply.

Learn more about the Library and the Director Position here: