Job Introduction
Bradford Council is looking for a bold and visionary leader to take our Library Services into a new era. Libraries are the beating heart of our communities, and we need someone with the passion, drive, and creativity to ensure they continue to thrive.
About Bradford:
Bradford is a district on the rise. Named the UK’s City of Culture 2025, it is undergoing a once-in-a-generation transformation - attracting investment, talent, and innovation. Ambitious regeneration projects are reshaping the city centre, transport links are improving, and a thriving cultural scene is setting the stage for a bold future.
With a strategic location, strong economic growth, and one of the youngest, most diverse populations in the UK, Bradford is brimming with potential. A rapidly growing creative and digital sector, a strong health tech and space AI base, and a commitment to education and skills development make it an exciting place to be.
Bradford also has a rich literary heritage, home to inspiring writers, poets, and thinkers who have shaped its cultural identity. From its historic connections to the Brontë family to contemporary literary festivals and storytelling initiatives, the district has long been a place where words matter. Libraries are at the heart of this legacy, ensuring that literature, history, and learning remain accessible to all. More than just buildings, they are vibrant community spaces where ideas flourish, cultures connect, and opportunities are created. In a rapidly changing world, Bradford’s libraries continue to be a vital force for education, inspiration, and social mobility.
This is a place of opportunity - an inspiring place to live, work, and make a real difference.
Our libraries are adapting to meet the needs of a changing district. As Head of Library Services, you’ll lead this transformation, shaping a modern, dynamic service that serves the community today and into the future.
You’ll be responsible for:
- Delivering a bold new strategy – ensuring our libraries remain relevant, inspiring, and accessible to all.
- Engaging with our communities – making sure library services reflect the people they serve.
- Embracing innovation – bringing fresh ideas and digital solutions to enhance user experience.
- Leading with impact – empowering our teams to deliver exceptional services.
- Building partnerships – working with cultural, educational, and community organisations to maximise the reach and influence of our libraries.
About You:
- Visionary Leader - you have a clear vision for the future of library services and the ability to inspire and motivate others.
- Community-Focused - you are passionate about serving diverse communities and understand the importance of inclusivity and accessibility.
- Innovative Thinker - you embrace new ideas and technologies, always looking for ways to improve and modernize services.
- Experienced Professional - you have a strong background in library management and a track record of successful project delivery.
Why Join Us?
· A place with culture at its core – be part of something big in the UK’s City of Culture.
· A role with real impact – shape services that touch thousands of lives.
· A council that embraces change – work in an environment that values creativity and forward-thinking.
If you are ready to take on this exciting challenge and lead Bradford's Library Services into the future, we want to hear from you!
How to Apply
If you are interested in joining our team and would like some further information, please contact Jo Hinchcliffe by emailing jo.hinchliffe@bradford.gov.uk.
Employee Offer
Why work for Bradford Council? Find out why by taking a look at Our Employee Offer.pdf .
Equal Opportunities
We do not discriminate against any applicant or employee directly or indirectly on the grounds of gender, marital status, gender re-assignment, pregnancy, sexual orientation, disability, race, colour, ethnic background, religion or belief nationality or age. And, as an equal opportunities employer, the Council strives to employ the best qualified people from a diverse range of applicants.
The RESPECT Allyship Programme is available to all staff, which offers the opportunity to learn more about the diverse communities & groups and provides added benefits and resources to its members.
