County Librarian

About the Employer

Kerry County Council governs local government affairs in County Kerry, with its headquarters at Áras an Chontae, Rathass, Tralee. The Council comprises 33 elected officials and roughly 1500 personnel. The Kerry Library Service operates multiple branch libraries across the county including Ballybunion, Caherciveen, Castleisland, Dingle, Kenmare, Killarney, Killorglin, Listowel, and Tralee, plus two Mobile Libraries and a Local History and Archives hub. The service offers extensive lending services, community programs for all ages, literacy and lifelong learning support, cultural events such as book launches, lectures, creative writing workshops, author visits, and exhibitions. They also contribute to national and local initiatives like Right to Read, Healthy Ireland at Your Library, Age Friendly Libraries, Ireland Reads, Bealtaine Festival, Skills for Life, and Climate Action efforts.

Role Summary

The County Librarian role encompasses leadership and strategic direction for the entire library service in Kerry. Responsibilities include delivering quality library experiences, managing resources, fostering community engagement, and aligning with national and local strategic plans such as the National Public Library Strategy 2023–2027 and Kerry Library Development Plan 2024–2028.

Key Responsibilities

• Champion the library’s role in developing an inclusive Information Society.
• Identify innovative opportunities to enhance library services countywide.
• Lead capital investment planning and secure funding to enhance facilities and services.
• Cultivate libraries as vibrant community hubs for literature, arts, culture, and collaboration with local authorities and community groups.
• Integrate public library access with local government services.
• Partner with national and local arts agencies for service delivery through library networks.
• Develop sustainable, actionable strategies for service advancement.
• Analyze service demand patterns and advise on resource allocation and priorities.
• Oversee team management, staff training, and professional development.
• Coordinate and prioritize work programs, targets, and deadlines to ensure efficient service operation.
• Establish and monitor objectives, key performance indicators, and assist in corporate planning.
• Promote adoption of new technologies and efficient work practices.
• Maintain productive relationships with elected officials, development agencies, and other stakeholders amid evolving policies.
• Implement and oversee systems for budgeting, procurement, work scheduling, and financial controls ensuring value for money.
• Act as deputy for senior officers when required.
• Perform other similar duties as necessary.

Additional Information

Interested candidates can find comprehensive requirements and detailed role functions in the Information Booklet. The deadline for applications is 3pm on Thursday, 20th August 2026. Kerry County Council is an equal opportunity employer committed to inclusivity under all employment equality grounds.