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; and
• providing research, analytical and writing support for the division’s various requirements.

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

• Preference will be given to candidates who self-identify as Indigenous (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.
• 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.