Due to a retirement, the Wisconsin Valley Library Service (WVLS), a seven-county northcentral Wisconsin federated library system headquartered in Wausau, WI, is seeking a Director. Under general direction of a 15-member Board of Trustees, the WVLS Director exercises the day-to-day administrative responsibilities of the system.
Established in 1961, WVLS:
- Provides innovative and collaborative services for 25 public libraries at 33 locations in the counties of Clark, Forest, Langlade, Lincoln, Marathon, Oneida, and Taylor.
- Has an experienced staff of 10.95 FTEs.
- Has a 2025 population of approximately 291,300, and 2026 revenue and expenditures of approximately $3.7M.
- Oversees operation of a 25-member public library shared automation (Innovative Sierra-based) consortium known as V-Cat.
- Provides technology and network support to public libraries across north and central Wisconsin through a partnership with two other library systems known as LEANWI.
Required Qualifications
- MLS from an ALA-accredited library school and eligible for Grade I Librarian certification in the state of Wisconsin.
- Minimum of six years progressive management and supervisory experience in a public library or library system setting.
- Effective communication, organizational, public relations, and supervisory skills.
- Experience with budgeting, strategic planning and developing impactful programs, securing grants, fostering a collaborative environment, and using library-related technologies.
- Have a valid driver’s license, and the ability to travel independently.
A full position description can be found here.
Compensation and Benefits
- This position is a full-time, salaried position.
- Salary range is $95,000-110,000, depending on experience and qualifications.
- Excellent benefits package includes insurance (health, dental, vision and life); employer-paid retirement; 12 paid sick days, 10 paid holidays, 20 paid vacation days, and six days of personal leave annually; and the opportunity to participate in the Wisconsin Deferred Compensation Program.
- Flexibility with scheduled hours; hybrid remote/in-office work option is negotiable.
Starting Date
Position to start in May 2026, but initial employment date is negotiable beyond that date.
Application Procedure
Submit resume, complete contact information for three references, and cover letter outlining qualifications and vision for the position to WVLS Business Manager Brenda Walenton at .
Deadline for Applications
All application materials must be submitted to WVLS no later than 5:00 PM, Friday, February 27, 2026. Selected candidates will be contacted to provide more information and to schedule an interview after the closing date. A full position description can be found here.
WVLS is an equal opportunity employer.