Bibliotekschef

Bibliotekschef is a term used for the head administrator of a library, typically the person responsible for the overall management of a library or a system of libraries. The role is common in public libraries in Sweden and other Nordic contexts and corresponds to a library director or chief librarian in English-speaking settings. The bibliotekschef is a senior position within the library administration and may oversee an entire library network or municipality library services.

Key responsibilities include strategic planning and governance, budgeting and financial management, and personnel leadership. The bibliotekschef oversees collection development and cataloging policies, digital services, user experience, and outreach to schools and communities. Information literacy initiatives, service development, and accessibility are central to the role. The bibliotekschef also handles policy development, procurement, contract management, and compliance with applicable laws and standards, including data protection. In smaller libraries the role may involve more direct operation, while in larger systems it is a senior management position with department heads reporting to the bibliotekschef.

Qualifications typically include a degree in library and information science or an equivalent field, often at master’s level, plus substantial experience in library operations and leadership. Knowledge of public procurement, library law, data protection regulations, and change management is common. The bibliotekschef is expected to communicate with elected officials, funders, staff unions, partner organizations, and the public, and to steer the library’s development in alignment with municipal or organizational goals.

Organization and reporting: the bibliotekschef usually reports to a municipal council, cultural board, or library board, and may supervise directors of regional libraries or branches. The position may involve regional collaboration and setting long-term development goals. The exact scope and title can vary between municipalities and countries.