Vice 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 Vice Chair is the backup for all of the Chair responsibilities and activities. This includes serving as the political representative and playing a primary leadership role for ABCPLD, overseeing the strategic and fiduciary responsibilities of ABCPLD, and guiding the organization into the next phase of development. Per the ABCPLD Bylaws, the Vice Chair automatically becomes the Chair after the 2 year term is over. 

The Vice 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 Vice Chair position takes, on average, 15 hours each month. This can increase if travel is required and depending on where the Vice Chair lives. 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Serve as back up political representative in government meetings and presentations

  • Attend meetings (Board, Partners, community partners, etc., as needed)

  • Attend ABCPLD trainings and events

  • Participate in Partners events like UBCM

  • Assist in strategic planning and oversight 

  • Provide fiduciary oversight of ABCPLD

  • Offer regular and ongoing support for fellow board members 

The Vice 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