Library Manager - Sooke Branch

At Vancouver Island Regional Library, we believe libraries are more than buildings — they are welcoming community spaces that connect people to information, ideas, culture, technology, and one another. Guided by our values of accessibility, inclusivity, intellectual freedom, equity, collaboration, and community connection, VIRL serves communities across Vancouver Island, Haida Gwaii, and the Central Coast.

We are currently seeking a passionate and community-focused Library Manager to lead operations at one of our branch locations. This is an exciting opportunity for a librarian who thrives in a collaborative environment, enjoys building strong relationships, and is energized by leading people and services that make a meaningful impact in the community.

This is an opportunity to build meaningful community relationships while living and working in one of British Columbia’s most unique coastal regions. Whether you are drawn to outdoor recreation, small-community connection, or the opportunity to lead and innovate within public library service, VIRL offers a rewarding and purpose-driven career environment.

About the Role

Reporting to the Associate Director, Library Services, the Library Manager is responsible for the overall operation of the assigned branch, including leadership of staff, customer service excellence, community engagement, collection oversight, branch operations, and facility coordination.

The successful candidate will:

• Lead, support, coach, and develop branch staff in a collaborative and customer-focused environment
• Oversee day-to-day branch operations, staffing, scheduling, and service delivery
• Foster strong relationships with community partners, local organizations, and customers
• Support programming, outreach, and initiatives that reflect community needs and VIRL’s strategic direction
• Address customer concerns professionally and thoughtfully
• Support branch safety, facility operations, and operational effectiveness
• Participate in organizational initiatives, projects, and continuous improvement work
• Promote a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful environment for customers and staff alike

What We’re Looking For

The successful candidate will bring a combination of professional librarianship experience, leadership capability, and a strong commitment to public service. Required qualifications include:

• Master of Library and Information Studies (MLIS) from an ALA-accredited institution
• Minimum two years of experience as a Librarian, and two years supervisory/leadership experience in a public library environment
• Demonstrated experience leading, coaching, and supporting staff in a customer-focused setting
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills
• Experience building positive relationships with customers, community partners, and staff
• Ability to manage competing priorities, problem-solve, and work both independently and collaboratively
• Strong technology and digital literacy skills
• Valid BC Driver’s License
• Successful completion of a Criminal Record Check, including working with children and vulnerable adults

About VIRL

Vancouver Island Regional Library acknowledges that it operates on the traditional territories of the 53 First Nations within its service area, who are members of the Coast Salish, Haida, Nuu-chah-nulth, Kwakwaka’wakw, and Nuxálk peoples. VIRL honours its relationships with these Nations and with all First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples who reside in the region.

VIRL is one of the largest regional library systems in Canada, serving both rapidly growing urban centres and some of the most rural and remote communities in the country. Working in partnership with 38 local governments across a 42,000 km² service area, VIRL is committed to supporting livability, affordability, accessibility, literacy, lifelong learning, and community connection throughout the region.

At VIRL, we are committed to building a collaborative, inclusive, and forward-thinking organizational culture where employees are supported to learn, grow, and make a meaningful impact in the communities they serve.

A Note About the Community

We recognize that some of our branch locations can be more challenging to recruit for due to geography or housing availability — but they also offer incredible opportunities for connection, lifestyle, leadership, and community impact. Candidates who are excited about small or rural communities, coastal living, and building strong local relationships are strongly encouraged to apply.