Anyone may apply - By law, employment at most U.S. Government agencies, including the Library of Congress, is limited to U.S. citizens. However, non-citizens may be hired, provided that other legal requirements are met and the Library determines there are no qualified U.S. citizens available for the position.
Join a live, virtual Career Showcase to learn about an exciting career opportunity directly from senior leaders at the Library of Congress. Simply log on to the link below on Wednesday, January 21, at 1:00 p.m. (ET) to learn about the Chief, Music Division position at the Library of Congress. Registration is not required.
To participate anonymously, simply identify yourself as "Anonymous2026" when entering the session.
When: Wednesday, January 21, at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time (US and Canada) Topic: Library of Congress Career Showcase | Chief, Music Division Telephone: 1 669 254 5252 Webinar ID: 1613599942
Request ADA accommodations five business days in advance at (202) 707-6362 or ada@loc.gov.
A recording of the Career Showcase will be available by no later three business days following the event.
The position serves as the Chief of the Music Division, and reports to the Director of the Special Collections Directorate (SCD), in the Researcher and Collection Services (RCS) Service Unit within the Library Collections and Services Group (LCSG).
The Chief of the Music Division is a forward-looking, people-focused, and collaborative leader with broad responsibility for the development, stewardship, interpretation, promotion, and service of the music, theater, and dance collections under the Division’s purview to meet the needs of government officials, researchers, and all users who request information or seek access to collections and services. Under the Chief’s general direction, the Music Division’s primary role is to expand access to and enhance the research value and use of one of the foremost performing arts repositories in the United States and to engage new audiences through public programming, including the Concerts from the Library of Congress series, as part of the Library’s broader programming initiatives.
The Chief of the Music Division receives general policy guidance from the Director, Special Collections Directorate and has primary managerial and professional responsibility for directing the activities of the Division and related external activities and supervising Division staff. The Chief provides vision and leadership for the development and maintenance of the Library’s music, theater, and dance collections. This includes the integration of digital technology and facilitation of the effective use of these collections by researchers, visitors, and others worldwide, including the future direction of research services, public programming, and outreach. The Chief is responsible for cultivating relationships with potential donors, securing funds for new initiatives in concert with Library Development, selectively acquiring new collections, and thoughtfully enhancing services and programs.
The Chief provides national leadership in the fields of music, theater, dance, and the performing arts community and represents the Library at national and international meetings, events, and programs, especially those related to the Division’s collections. The Chief plays a key role in establishing a positive image for the Library and its collections, as well as its service to Congress, researchers, visitors, and the general public.
Exercises responsibility for the overall execution of the Division’s budget for appropriated, gift and trust funds, balancing the needs of collections, services, programs, and staffing.
Sets and implements a collection development strategy that ensures a diverse, balanced, and sustainable portfolio in the Division’s major collection areas of music, theater, and dance, ensuring that analog and digital collection are relevant to researcher needs and that they are served in a timely and efficient manner.
Leads efforts to sustainably steward the Division’s collections and to increase access, discovery, use, and dissemination of the Division’s collections and resources, both analog and digital, for all users, both onsite and offsite.
Ensures the Division supports the vision of being a library for all, onsite and online, and builds services and programs around the needs of researchers and visitors.
Leads efforts to raise awareness and promote outreach and engagement with the Division’s collections and resources for users, including Congress, researchers, visitors, and the public, both national and international. Oversees the planning and execution of the concert series sponsored by the Library of Congress.
Performs the full range of human resource management functions relative to directly and indirectly supervised staff.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Relocation fees may be considered for the person(s) selected under this vacancy announcement.
See requirements listed below under Qualifications Required.
Your resume is important to this application process. It will be reviewed to determine whether you possess the qualifications referenced above. All applicants are required to submit a resume that provides specific information (to include accomplishments, work experience and education/training) that clearly describes what you would bring to the position. The Supervisor leads his/her staff toward meeting the Library’s vision, mission, and goals by acting decisively, leveraging diversity and inclusiveness, demonstrating flexibility and resilience, fostering continuous improvement and innovation, and fostering integrity and honesty. To view the Library’s Supervisory Core Competencies click the following link: https://www.loc.gov/static/portals/careers/documents/loc_supervisor_core_competencies.pdf
Conditions of Employment
Library of Congress employees are prohibited from using illegal drugs, including marijuana. The Library is part of the Federal Government and abides by federal law, so regardless of individual state or District of Columbia laws, marijuana use is illegal, considered criminal activity, and can affect your employment at the Library. In addition, past drug use and activities (e.g., selling or distributing) may deem you ineligible for employment.
Qualifications
Applicants must have had progressively responsible experience and training sufficient in scope and quality to furnish them with an acceptable level of the following knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the position without more than normal supervision.
The competencies below are required for this position. Those marked with a double asterisk (**) are considered the most critical competencies for this position.
A candidate's resume must show a proven record of accomplishment that clearly demonstrates he or she has experience:
Knowledge of the principles, concepts, and techniques of library and archival practice as it relates to music, theater, and dance collections and the provision of researcher services & public programs. ** The successful candidate has applied professional knowledge of library, archival, and information management principles, concepts, and techniques to manage functions and deliver programs in a research library setting; using this knowledge to acquire content, organize material, provide access to analog and digital collections documenting music, theater, and dance, and promote user engagement. Experience with the following: 1) established strategies and priorities for music, theater, and dance collections development and management; 2) set policies and procedures to preserve, secure, organize, describe, digitize and make collections accessible; 3) enriched the onsite and online user experience around collections and services and increased usage by diverse user groups; 4) developed collaborative approaches to public outreach and programs to increase the use of Library collections and services; and 5) incorporated assessment activities into routine procedures for collections, services, and programs.
Ability to supervise, develop, and lead a diverse cultural heritage workforce. ** The successful candidate has supervised and managed a diverse workforce including, 1) establishing realistic yet challenging goals and standards; 2) supplying regular, constructive feedback, mentoring to assist staff in attaining their goals; 3) incorporating active participation of staff in planning, decision making and team building; 4) identifying skills and abilities of staff and any skill gaps in the workforce for current and future needs; 5) providing opportunities for training and career advancement; 6) hiring staff; 7) addressing performance and disciplinary matters; 8) communicating performance expectations; 9) conducting timely and periodic performance evaluations; 10) ensuring tasks are appropriately delegated and satisfactorily completed; and 11) creating and embracing an environment fostering diversity, integrity, and honesty focused on ongoing improvement to self and others and to customer service.
Ability to think strategically and lead change. ** The successful candidate establishes and implements a strategic vision and direction for an organization or group and leads and effects change. This includes evaluating interdependencies and interrelationships among functions and resources and outcomes; developing performance targets; and identifying strategic opportunities. This also includes championing ideas that promote the mission with enthusiasm, conviction, and assertiveness; gaining support and commitment from others; and motivating and inspiring others.
Participates in developing and implementing revisions to an organization’s strategy for adapting to new challenges. Responsible for implementing at least one major component of a strategy change for an organization. Discusses the importance of evaluating organizational progress against targets and/or to adjusting targets or expectations as appropriate.
Ability to provide program oversight and administrative management to agency programs and operations. ** The successful candidate has provided a wide range of managerial, analytical, technical, and advisory functions related to the administrative programs within the division. This included the following: 1) provided oversight for human resources, finance, information technology, facilities management and other services, 2) oversaw and guided short- and long-term strategic planning initiatives, 3) accomplished strategic and organizational goals by ensuring the effective interaction and integration of processes, 4) delegated and managed financial operations, 5) provided operational services in support of workforce planning goals, 6) managed effective and efficient administration of facilities requirements, 7) set performance expectations, 8) provided advice, counsel and training to staff, 9) developed policies and guidelines affecting agency programs, and 10) directed, monitored and participated in outreach initiatives.
Ability to build coalitions and professional networks across and outside of an organization. The successful candidate has identified, built, and maintained relationships and professional networks to gain support and commitment from stakeholders and other strategic partners within and outside of the organization; members of the performing arts and cultural heritage communities; industry partners; and colleagues in relevant academic, library and archival fields. This includes: 1) participating in and representing the institution at professional association and industry meetings; 2) working collaboratively with other departments, agencies and organizations to further agency goals and objectives; 3) establishing cordial relationships with donors and potential donors to obtain additions to Library collections; and 4) working with the archival and research library community to identify and cooperate in response to trends and issues related to the collections and services of the Library.
Ability to communicate effectively other than in writing. The successful candidate has the ability to speak clearly, politely, and under control to peers, staff, managers, supervisors, and external audiences to both provide and seek information. This also includes actively listening to and understanding information; and listening to and answering questions thoughtfully and completely.
Additional information
All initial appointments, permanent or indefinite, to the Library of Congress require completion of a one-year probationary period. In addition, all newly appointed Senior Level executives, from outside the Library as well as from within, must serve a one year probationary period in accordance with the Library of Congress Regulations (LCRs) 9-1610 Senior Level Executive System.
The Library of Congress is an equal opportunity employer. All who meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to apply.
Applicants must submit a complete application package that is received by the closing date of this announcement.
This agency provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please email ADA@loc.gov. The decision on granting reasonable accommodation will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Applicants with disabilities may be considered under special hiring procedures and must submit an appropriate certificate of eligibility when applying for this position. The proof or disability/certification may be issued by the State Vocational Rehabilitation Office, Disability Services or Career Services office of the applicant’s college or university, or the Department of Veterans Affairs. The letter must verify that the applicant has a severe disability and must be dated within three years of the date of the application. Certification from health care providers are not accepted. For more information contact the Library's Office of Equal Employment Opportunity at 202-707-6024 or email spp@loc.gov. FAILURE TO SUBMIT YOUR CERTIFICATION WILL CAUSE YOUR APPLICATION TO NOT BE CONSIDERED UNDER THE SELECTIVE PLACEMENT PROGRAM.
The Library of Congress is the national library of the United States and is part of the Legislative Branch of the Federal government. As such, all positions are in the excepted service. Appointment/retention is subject to a favorable evaluation of an appropriate personnel security/suitability investigation.
The Library of Congress may offer repayment for all or part of federally insured student loans. However, not all service units within the Library of Congress participates in the repayment of federally insured student loans. Therefore, determination to repay a federally insured student loan is subject to approval by the appropriate service unit.
The selected applicant will be required to file a financial disclosure statement with the House of Representatives, U.S. Congress, in accordance with the provisions of Public Law 95-521, the Ethics in Government Act of 1978.
Are you a veteran? Please indicate the type of veterans' preference you are claiming in your application materials and/or applicant profile and provide the appropriate supporting documentation to validate your claim. Those applying for 5-point preference must submit Member Copy 4 of your DD 214. Those applying for 10-point preference must fill out an SF-15 (click here for the form) and provide the required documentation listed on the back of the form. If required supporting documentation is not attached, Veterans' Preference will not be considered in the application process.
For more information regarding eligibility requirements, please see the Library of Congress Merit Selection Plan, Section 8.5, at: Senior Level Merit Selection Plan.
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
The Library of Congress will evaluate applicants using the information provided in your resume. Reviews are intended to explore applicants' experience, knowledge, and training directly related to the job in order to identify the best qualified applicants for selection. For Senior Level positions, applicants do not need to respond to specific competency questions but will be requested to answer one question related to how they became aware of this job opportunity. You may preview questions for this vacancy.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
Your resume should include relevant work experience, applicable education and your contact information. For current or previous federal employees, include the pay plan, series and grade.
Current or former federal employees must submit their most recent Notification of Personnel Action (SF-50 or equivalent).
Applicants with disabilities may be considered under special hiring procedures and must submit an appropriate certificate of eligibility when applying for this position. The proof or disability/certification may be issued by the State Vocational Rehabilitation Office, Disability Services or Career Services office of the applicant’s college or university, or the Department of Veterans Affairs. The letter must verify that the applicant has a severe disability and must be dated within three years of the date of the application. The program does not accept certification from health care providers. For more information contact the Library's Office of Equal Employment Opportunity Office at 202-707-6024 or email spp@loc.gov. FAILURE TO SUBMIT YOUR CERTIFICATION WILL CAUSE YOUR APPLICATION TO NOT BE CONSIDERED UNDER THE SELECTIVE PLACEMENT PROGRAM.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
Please carefully follow all instructions under the How to Apply tab to ensure that you are considered for the position.
Please note, there is no page restriction to your resume, and you are allowed to upload a resume longer than two pages in the resume section within the application process. When the application system prompts, please proceed to the agency site to complete your application.
Step 1: If you do not already have one, create a resume on USAJOBS. Although you must enter your Social Security Number for USAJOBS, this information will not be provided to the Library of Congress.
Step 2: Review the Job Announcement. We recommend you go to the Qualifications and Evaluations section of the job announcement to review the qualifications listed to ensure that your resume reflects your accomplishments in those areas.
Step 3: Click on the "APPLY ONLINE" button to the right of this announcement. Follow USAJOBS' instructions to access your account and submit your resume. You will be redirected to the Hiring Management website to complete the application process. If this is your first time in Hiring Management, you will be asked to answer questions related to your eligibility for Federal employment. You will be able to update this information and save it to our account for future announcements.
Step 4: Click on "Finish" after you have completed your application. Once you have submitted your application, you can check your status online through your Hiring Management or MY USAJOBS account. If you are experiencing any technical difficulty with the online process, you MUST CONTACT THE POINT OF CONTACT FOR THIS ANNOUNCEMENT BEFORE THE CLOSING DATE. For all technical issues please contact jobhelp@loc.gov , no later than 4:30pm EST of the Closing Date.
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
101 Independence Ave SE, Washington, DC 20540
Washington, District of Columbia 20540
United States
Next steps
Please review our evaluation process under Qualifications and Evaluations. You may check the status of your application for this position at any time by logging onto the USAJOBS "My USAJOBS" tab and clicking on "My Applications." You will receive final notification via e-mail when the vacancy has been filled.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
Your resume should include relevant work experience, applicable education and your contact information. For current or previous federal employees, include the pay plan, series and grade.
Current or former federal employees must submit their most recent Notification of Personnel Action (SF-50 or equivalent).
Applicants with disabilities may be considered under special hiring procedures and must submit an appropriate certificate of eligibility when applying for this position. The proof or disability/certification may be issued by the State Vocational Rehabilitation Office, Disability Services or Career Services office of the applicant’s college or university, or the Department of Veterans Affairs. The letter must verify that the applicant has a severe disability and must be dated within three years of the date of the application. The program does not accept certification from health care providers. For more information contact the Library's Office of Equal Employment Opportunity Office at 202-707-6024 or email spp@loc.gov. FAILURE TO SUBMIT YOUR CERTIFICATION WILL CAUSE YOUR APPLICATION TO NOT BE CONSIDERED UNDER THE SELECTIVE PLACEMENT PROGRAM.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
Please carefully follow all instructions under the How to Apply tab to ensure that you are considered for the position.
Please note, there is no page restriction to your resume, and you are allowed to upload a resume longer than two pages in the resume section within the application process. When the application system prompts, please proceed to the agency site to complete your application.
Step 1: If you do not already have one, create a resume on USAJOBS. Although you must enter your Social Security Number for USAJOBS, this information will not be provided to the Library of Congress.
Step 2: Review the Job Announcement. We recommend you go to the Qualifications and Evaluations section of the job announcement to review the qualifications listed to ensure that your resume reflects your accomplishments in those areas.
Step 3: Click on the "APPLY ONLINE" button to the right of this announcement. Follow USAJOBS' instructions to access your account and submit your resume. You will be redirected to the Hiring Management website to complete the application process. If this is your first time in Hiring Management, you will be asked to answer questions related to your eligibility for Federal employment. You will be able to update this information and save it to our account for future announcements.
Step 4: Click on "Finish" after you have completed your application. Once you have submitted your application, you can check your status online through your Hiring Management or MY USAJOBS account. If you are experiencing any technical difficulty with the online process, you MUST CONTACT THE POINT OF CONTACT FOR THIS ANNOUNCEMENT BEFORE THE CLOSING DATE. For all technical issues please contact jobhelp@loc.gov , no later than 4:30pm EST of the Closing Date.
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
101 Independence Ave SE, Washington, DC 20540
Washington, District of Columbia 20540
United States
Next steps
Please review our evaluation process under Qualifications and Evaluations. You may check the status of your application for this position at any time by logging onto the USAJOBS "My USAJOBS" tab and clicking on "My Applications." You will receive final notification via e-mail when the vacancy has been filled.
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
