Job Opening: WPL Seeks NoMa Library Manager
POSITION: NoMa Library Hub Manager
LOCATION: NoMa Library East, 3905 North Market Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19802
SALARY: $80,000-$90,000
About the NoMa Library
The North Market (NoMa) Library Hub is a state‑of‑the‑art, community‑centered branch located in the North Wilmington corridor. Co‑designed with community members, government partners, and private sector stakeholders, NoMa is part library, part incubator, and part gathering place. Its flexible, purpose‑built spaces are designed to inspire bakers, makers, readers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.
As a vital anchor in the evolving North Market Street corridor, NoMa supports learning, creativity, economic opportunity, and civic engagement while redefining what a 21st‑century public library can be.
Position Overview
The inaugural NoMa Library Hub Manager provides strategic, operational, and people‑centered leadership for this innovative branch. This role blends traditional public library management with entrepreneurial vision, community partnership development, and space activation.
The Manager leads staff, programs, and services while fostering a culture grounded in human‑centered design, experimentation, and participation. Working collaboratively with Library Administration and community partners, the Manager plays a central role in shaping NoMa’s identity, impact, and long‑term sustainability.
This is a unique opportunity to lead a flagship library hub that serves as both a cultural and economic catalyst for the North Wilmington community.
Key Responsibilities:
Branch Operations & Administration
- Direct and manage day‑to‑day operations of the NoMa Library Hub
- Develop branch goals, strategic plans, policies, programs, and procedures aligned with organizational priorities
- Prepare reports, projections, and performance metrics to support data‑informed decision‑making
- Uphold policies established by the Library Board and Administration
- Serve as Branch Manager‑In‑Charge (BMIC) on a rotating basis, including evenings and weekends
- Monitor and allocate resources to meet operational and service demands
- Oversee building and grounds maintenance to ensure a safe, welcoming, and well‑functioning environment
Staff Leadership & Culture
- Recruit, train, supervise, motivate, and evaluate branch staff
- Develop staff schedules and ensure appropriate service coverage
- Foster a positive, inclusive, and high‑performing team culture
- Oversee performance management, including coaching and progressive discipline when necessary
- Maintain clear, consistent, and effective internal communication
Programs, Services & Space Activation
- Design and implement innovative programs, services, and special events
- Activate flexible spaces to support creative, educational, entrepreneurial, and community‑driven uses
- Manage branch collections, including selection, weeding, and space allocation
- Ensure effective circulation, access, and organization of materials
- Promote active library use and ensure services reflect evolving community needs
Community Engagement & Partnerships
- Build and sustain relationships with local organizations, businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies along the North Market Street corridor
- Represent the Library at community meetings and events
- Lead inclusive engagement strategies that center community voice, participation, and co‑creation
- Collaborate across branches and with Administration to support system‑wide initiatives and responsive service delivery
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
- Strong knowledge of public library operations, including reference, circulation, cataloging, acquisitions, and collection development
- Understanding of library administration, systems, and organizational priorities
- Knowledge of local city and state agencies and community resources
- Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and evaluate staff to maximize service quality and morale
- Excellent project management, organizational, and problem‑solving skills
- Ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences and stakeholders
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt in a dynamic, evolving environment
- Proficiency with library systems, databases, and standard software applications (e.g., Microsoft Office)
- Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and culturally responsive service
Minimum Qualifications:
- Master’s Degree in Library Science from an ALA‑accredited program
- At least one (1) year of supervisory experience in a public service role (library or comparable community‑based setting); urban experience preferred
- Demonstrated experience in program, service, or policy design and implementation
- Experience with operations and facilities management preferred
This position requires flexibility, including occasional evenings and weekends, and comfort working in a highly collaborative, innovative, and community‑responsive environment.
The Wilmington Public Library is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse workforce that reflects the community it serves.
POSTING DATE: Monday, May 4, 2026
REFER INQUIRIES TO:
Sebastian Northey-Primer