The State Library of Ohio is a state agency that serves state government, all types of libraries, and the residents of Ohio. The agency provides a wide range of services and resources to libraries, residents, and state employees.
The vision of the State Library of Ohio is a Smarter Ohio where Ohioans of all ages access the necessary resources to be engaged residents, excel at their jobs, participate in the workforce, expand their knowledge, and pursue their passions and interests.
Because of our work helping libraries with director, fiscal officer, technology, and human resources leader searches, OA was selected to facilitate the search for the agency’s next Executive Director and State Librarian.
From the start of the engagement, we worked collaboratively with its Board to define the attributes and qualifications required for an effective leader of the State Library. This included gaining a thorough understanding of the organization’s structure, goals, and strategic priorities to ensure alignment with the role.
Our approach included gathering input from both internal and external stakeholders to incorporate a wide range of perspectives. This information was vital in shaping the search criteria and ensuring that the recruitment process reflected the needs and expectations of the broader library community. Throughout the search, we maintained strong communication with the Board and staff while engaging with candidates in a meaningful way. We provided candidates with a clear understanding of the opportunity and the State Library’s mission, fostering interest and enthusiasm for the role. Each candidate was assessed consistently and fairly whether they were internal or external applicants.
We provided the State Library Board with regular bi-weekly updates and held scheduled meetings to ensure they were informed at every stage. Feedback and insights were shared openly, and we worked to create an efficient, collaborative experience for all involved. Our goal was to make the process as seamless as possible while maintaining the thoroughness required for a critical leadership hire.
The culmination of this effort was the appointment of Mandy Knapp to lead the State Library of Ohio. Mandy’s extensive experience and leadership skills position her to make a significant impact on libraries across the state. We are confident that her vision and expertise will support the State Library’s mission and advance its role as a vital resource for Ohio’s library community.
Organizational Architecture is the trusted partner for more than thirty public libraries for human resources consulting, recruiting, performance management, and leadership development. If you need help in any of these areas, contact us to learn more.