Library Planning Consultant, Indigenous Services

JOB SUMMARY

Ottawa Public Library (OPL) provides accessible, innovative library and information services throughout the city of Ottawa, that meet the unique needs of diverse communities, delivered through facility, mobile, and virtual channels.

As the Library Planning Consultant, Indigenous Services at Ottawa Public Library (OPL), your main responsibility is to leverage an in-depth understanding of Indigenous ways of knowing, being, and doing to foster an inclusive environment at the OPL. You will provide expert guidance to staff and senior management in crafting strategies and plans that demonstrate OPL's unwavering dedication to Truth and Reconciliation and meaningful collaborations with the Anishinābe Algonquin Host Nation, urban First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities.

You will be responsible for:

• leading the strategic planning and service delivery enhancement for OPL’s Indigenous partners;
• collaborating on the development, delivery and enhancement of services related to the Indigenous communities that OPL serves;
• furthering OPL’s relationships and engagement with Indigenous communities;
• supporting system-wide expertise, guidance and resources to support staff in delivering culturally responsive programs, services and initiatives for Indigenous communities;
• leading the development of approaches/roadmaps, guidance, and cultural protocols that strengthen organizational capacity and support culturally responsive service delivery and
• providing research, analytical and writing support for the division’s various requirements.

This position is designated for Indigenous applicants. Candidates must self-identify as First Nations, Inuit, or Métis and who can demonstrate knowledge of social and political structures, socio-economic challenges, and cultural ways of knowing, being and doing in the local First Nations and/or urban Indigenous communities.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Undergraduate university degree in a field relevant to the key responsibilities of the position, or an equivalent combination of directly related work experience, training, and courses.
• Minimum of 3 years of proven experience working with local First Nations and/or urban Indigenous communities.

KNOWLEDGE

• Comprehensive understanding of OPL's mission, vision, values, governance structures, and familiarity with corporate policies and procedures of both OPL and City of Ottawa.
• Awareness of relevant legislation, policies, regulations, and guidelines, such as the Public Libraries Act, Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, Copyright Act, Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, and Reporting of Child Pornography Act.
• Research, statistical analysis and report writing techniques and processes.
• Program and project evaluation and performance measurement processes.
• Commitment and adherence to the principles of intellectual freedom.
• Thorough knowledge of social and political structures, socio-economic challenges, and cultural ways of knowing, being and doing in the local First Nations and / or urban Indigenous communities
• Current knowledge of Indigenous organizations located in the National Capital Region.
• Knowledge of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s findings and recommendations.
• Knowledge of current trends and best practices in public library service for Indigenous groups.
• Proficiency in computer applications, including MS Office,
• Understanding of environmental and industry trends impacting organizations and influencing the future of work and the workforce.
• Familiarity with project management principles and practices.
• Competence in strategic and operational planning.

COMPETENCIES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Personal Suitability

• Commitment to anti-racism, decolonization, and fostering an inclusive work environment aligned with justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Collaboration skills, ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, leadership capabilities, and client service focus.
• Action-oriented, highly motivated, and energetic individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong conceptual, analytical, organizational, and planning skills to address complex issues.
• Effective time management skills, able to work under tight deadlines.
• Consistency, fairness, tact, empathy, and respect in interactions with others.
• High personal and professional standards, integrity, and positive rapport with a wide range of individuals.
• Commitment to an inclusive and community-focused approach in service design and delivery.
• Experience working in diverse communities and building relationships with partners from various sectors.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

• Language Requirement: English oral, reading, writing
• Additional vacancies may occur during the competition process.
• Alternative educational credentials combined with job-related experience, demonstrated performance, and ability may be considered in lieu of stated academic requirements.
• Please save a copy of the job poster. Once the closing date has passed, it will no longer be available.

We wish to thank all applicants for their interest and effort in applying for this position. Only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.

The Ottawa Public Library promotes the principles of diversity and inclusion and adheres to the tenets of the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Ontario Human Rights Code. We encourage applications from women, Aboriginal peoples and persons of all races, ethnic origins, religions, abilities, sexual orientations, and gender identities and expressions. The Ottawa Public Library provides accommodation during all parts of the hiring process, upon request, to applicants with disabilities. If contacted to proceed to the selection process, please advise us if you require any accommodation.

The Ottawa Public Library provides accommodation to applicants during all parts of the hiring process, upon request. If contacted to proceed to the selection process, please advise us if you require any accommodation.

Accessible formats and communication supports are available upon request. Please contact the Employee Service Centre at 613-580-2424 extension 12211 or via email at esc-cse@ottawa.ca .

Location: 100 Tallwood Drive, Ottawa, ON Department: Ottawa Public Library Service: Client Services Employment Type: 1 Permanent Full Time Position Work Hours: 35 hours per week Affiliation: MPE/New City MPE Application Close: 26/10/2026