at American Library Association in Chicago, Illinois, United States
Job Description
Associate Executive Director for Public Policy and Advocacy
The American Library Association (ALA) is the oldest and largest library association in the world. Founded in 1876, our mission is to share our vision of the importance of libraries, literacy, access to information and intellectual freedom which also encompasses equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) through the lens of social justice. ALA is a fast-paced, inclusive, work environment that values diversity, teamwork, collaboration, creativity, and entrepreneurialism.
ALA’s Public Policy and Advocacy(PPA) office based in Washington, DC seeks an Associate Executive Director to represent libraries on Capitol Hill, direct and manage the advocacy and public policy staff building relationships and opportunities to uplift and shape policy that benefits libraries and library users with federal and regional lawmakers; representing libraries, library workers, and ALA’s core values and programmatic priorities to legislators and stakeholders which includes the Congress, the Executive Branch, and the Judiciary in order to raise the visibility of the library and information sector and its concerns in the public’s consciousness.
Chief Responsibilities:
- Oversee Public Policy and Advocacy staff, budget and Washington DC office facility.
- Oversee PPA communications staff, monitor press statements, respond to requests for LIS sector and policy-related information, and route and respond to press queries and requests for interviews from reporters.
- Regularly coordinating calls and meetings with key stake holding organizations.
- Maintain status and activity as a registered lobbyist covering appropriations, education, Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), and general national infrastructure and seek out opportunities to introduce policy and influence legislation that supports libraries, library users, and the expansion of educational and information services in and connected to libraries.
- Educate Members of Congress on ALA legislative priorities and promote Congressional contacts for library and information services (LIS) sector stakeholders and grassroots supporters.
- Brief ALA staff, PPA committees, policy corps participants, and general members across the association on pertinent and timely legislative activity and opportunities. Organize related activities, mobilizations, and efforts.
- Provide direction and support to ALA’s Chapter Relations and International Relations Offices staff.
- Serve as part of ALA’s senior leadership cabinet.
- Oversee fellows, scholars, consultants and contractors working in service of PPA strategies, programs, and activity.
- Encourage library supporters to communicate with their elected legislators to promote ALA’s legislative priorities.
- Create programming and cultivate audiences for conferences and advocacy events such as National Library Legislative Day and the Congressional Fly-in.
- Serves as primary staff liaison to the ALA Committee on Legislation.
Working Relationships
- ALA Executive Staff, Executive Board and Member Leaders
- Public Policy & Advocacy member committees
- Chief Officers of State Library Agencies (COSLA)Congressional Staff
- Coalition Partners
- Washington Media
- ALA Policy Corps
- ALA members
This is a regular full-time position based in our Washington office.
ALA staff are currently working on a hybrid schedule, based on individual manager’s discretion and the nature of the position. Please note that although we have a telecommuting policy for our employees, we do not have any truly remote positions in states outside of our workplace sites. Relocation package available.
ALA currently requires that employees be fully vaccinated for COVID 19 as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Proof of vaccination will be required on or before start date.
All offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check and proof of your eligibility to work in the United States.
Starting salary range negotiable from the mid-100s; based on relevant experience. ALA has an excellent benefit package that includes flexible work schedules, medical, dental, generous paid vacation, retirement annuity and a 35-hour workweek. You may also qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).
Closing Date: Consideration of candidates will begin July 8. 2024 and continue until the position is filled.
FOR CONSIDERATION:
Apply online including a current resume and cover letter outlining the strategic value that you will bring to ALA, drawing upon your experience in advocacy, public policy, influencing legislation by building coalitions and developing grassroots networks.
OR
Send the required information to:
American Library Association
Human Resources Department
Ref: AEDWOffice
Email: lswader@ala.org
The American Library Association is an equal opportunity employer: Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran