Chair - Position Description


ABCPLD is an executive association of the library directors who lead public libraries across British Columbia. ABCPLD also provides organized representation to both provincial and federal governments on behalf of library administration, representing the shared interests of public libraries’ leaders.   

The Chair is the primary political representative and plays a leadership role for the Board and for the Executive Director. Along with the entire Board, the Chair is responsible for the strategic and fiduciary oversight of ABCPLD and for guiding the organization into the next phase of development. The Chair works closely with the Executive Director to support their operational work, the implementation of the strategic plan, and to determine the best spokesperson for incoming media requests. Per the ABCPLD Bylaws, the Chair can only serve one term, or two years, in the role. 

The Chair is expected to attend ABCPLD board meetings, BC Public Library Partners meetings, meetings with government representatives, and as many events and training that ABCPLD puts on as possible. The Chair and Vice Chair must coordinate to ensure one of them is available at most meetings. Meetings are held both virtually and a few times a year in person in the Lower Mainland and Victoria.

It is realistic to expect that the Chair position takes, on average, 15 hours each month. This can increase if travel is required and depending on where the Chair lives.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Serve as primary political representative in government meetings and presentations

  • Attend meetings (Board, Partners, community partners etc)

  • Attend ABCPLD trainings and events

  • Participate in Partners events like UBCM

  • Assist in strategic planning and oversight 

  • Fiduciary oversight of ABCPLD

  • Regular and ongoing support for fellow board members 

  • Liaise closely with and support the Executive Director

The Chair Demonstrates:

  • Diplomacy and ability to get along with different personalities 

  • Comfort with being a media spokesperson and political representative of the Association

  • Welcoming, approachable, warm presence for other members

  • Proven diplomacy and consensus building skills

  • Strong collaborative leadership skills

  • Political but non-partisan 

  • Knowledge of the BC library environment and legislation