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Federal Government Library Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tuskegee University

... Federal Depository Library (FDLP), Tuskegee University Library Services seeks a qualified candidate to manage and provide access to government documents while delivering high-quality reference and ...

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How much do federal government library jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for federal government library in the United States is $18.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are public librarians government workers?

Public librarians are often government employees if they work for municipal, state, or federal libraries. However, some librarians work for private or nonprofit organizations. Employment status depends on the specific library's funding and ownership.

What are some common challenges faced by librarians working in a federal government library setting?

Librarians in federal government libraries often encounter challenges such as managing sensitive or classified information, adapting to evolving government regulations, and serving a diverse user base with specialized research needs. They must stay updated on compliance and security protocols while ensuring information accessibility for government employees. Additionally, they may work within structured teams and collaborate closely with policy analysts, researchers, and other government staff, making strong communication and adaptability essential skills.

What is the difference between Federal Government Library vs State Government Library?

AspectFederal Government LibraryState Government Library
CredentialsTypically requires a Master’s in Library Science (MLS) or equivalentSame as federal, often requiring MLS or equivalent
Work EnvironmentLocated within federal agencies, national institutionsLocated within state agencies, state capitals, or regional offices
Employer & Industry UsageServes federal employees, national research, and policyServes state employees, local communities, and regional research
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for scope, funding, and jurisdictionCompared for regional focus and governance

The main difference between a Federal Government Library and a State Government Library lies in their jurisdiction, scope, and employer. Federal libraries serve national agencies and require similar credentials, while state libraries focus on state agencies and regional needs. Both roles typically require a Master’s in Library Science and work within government settings, but their audiences and operational scope differ.

What is a federal government library?

A federal government library is an information center operated by a federal agency or department to support its mission and serve the information needs of its staff, policymakers, and sometimes the general public. These libraries collect, organize, and provide access to specialized resources such as books, reports, legal documents, and databases related to government operations and research. Federal libraries can be found in various agencies, covering topics from law and health to science and defense. Some notable examples include the Library of Congress and the National Library of Medicine. Access policies and collections vary depending on the agency and the library's specific focus.

Is it hard to get hired as a librarian?

Getting hired as a librarian in a federal government library can be competitive, often requiring a relevant master's degree in library science or information studies and passing civil service exams. Strong organizational skills, familiarity with library management systems, and experience with federal hiring processes can improve chances of employment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Federal Government Librarian, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Federal Government Librarian, you typically need a Master of Library Science (MLS) or equivalent degree, along with expertise in information organization, research, and relevant federal regulations. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital archives, government databases, and classification tools like MARC and LC is essential. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial for supporting federal missions and assisting diverse user groups. These skills ensure the accurate management, accessibility, and dissemination of vital government information.

How much do federal librarians make?

Federal librarians typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location within the government. Salaries are often aligned with the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, with higher grades and specialized skills leading to increased pay. Benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave.

Can you make 6 figures as a librarian?

Federal government librarians can potentially earn six-figure salaries, especially with advanced degrees, specialized skills, and senior positions. However, most librarian roles in the public sector typically have salaries below six figures, with higher earnings often found in administrative or specialized roles. Salary levels depend on experience, location, and job responsibilities.
More about Federal Government Library jobs
What cities are hiring for Federal Government Library jobs? Cities with the most Federal Government Library job openings:
What states have the most Federal Government Library jobs? States with the most job openings for Federal Government Library jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Federal Government Library jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Federal Government Library jobs are:
Federal Government Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Government Library job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,859 per year, or $18.7 per hour.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR - LIBRARY

LIBRARY DIRECTOR - LIBRARY

The City of Manchester, NH

Manchester, NH • On-site

$116K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

LIBRARY DIRECTOR - 8070
GRADE - 132
PAY RANGE - $116,313.60 - $165,817.60/SALARY - plus a comprehensive benefits package
GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES:
Plans, organizes, and directs the operations and activities of the Public Library System; performs directly related work as required.
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS:
The principal function of an employee in this class is to provide administrative oversight to all operations and activities of the Public Library. The work is performed under the supervision and direction of the Library Board of Trustees and the Board of Mayor and Aldermen but extensive leeway is granted for the exercise of independent judgement and initiative. Supervision is exercised over the work of all employees within the Public Library, in coordination with a management team involving the Deputy Library Director and employees in the classification of Librarian III. The nature of the work performed requires that an employee in this class establish and maintain effective working relationships with other library employees, the Board of Mayor and Aldermen, Friends groups, business and community groups, outside auditors, State and Federal officials, representatives of the media, and the public. The principal duties of this class are performed in a general office environment.
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL WORK:
  • Plans, organizes, directs, manages, and evaluates the work of library department managers in implementing the expressed goals, policies, and directives of the Public Library System;
  • Develops policies and procedures designed to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of library operations and services;
  • Directly supervises Deputy Library Director, Librarian III, Business Administrator, and Administrative Assistant III positions;
  • Develops and administers the library budget; presents and defends budget requests during City budget process;
  • Confers with library management team, Deputy Director, and Business Administrator to track policy implementation and receive specific recommendations and suggestions on library operations;
  • Provides status reports to the Library Board of Trustees on library operations, and recommends any major shift in policies or procedures and recommendations for future development;
  • Manages library system finances including the operating budget funded by the City, library fines, and trust fund endowments;
  • Collaborates with the City and library foundation to secure grant funding for special projects including renovations or new initiatives;
  • Provides financial reports required for compliance with City, State, and Federal requirements;
  • Assists in processing bequests to the library foundation;
  • Oversees the development and implementation of library operations within the City, including the operating budget, facilities, capital improvement, and personnel programs;
  • Serves as the chief spokesperson for the Public Library System;
  • Promotes a safe, welcoming, inclusive environment for the community both at library facilities and in online spaces;
  • Monitors day to day facility custodial and maintenance standards and manages special projects such as repairs, restorations, system updates, and safety and security issues;
  • Participates in development and fundraising with the Manchester City Library Foundation;
  • Oversees special events and programs for the library;
  • Oversees community outreach and marketing the library;
  • Performs personnel-related functions including mentoring/staff development, hiring, and termination;
  • Engages with community leaders to address social issues and provide information and research support;
  • Establishes and maintains effective, collaborative professional and business relationships with community organizations, businesses, forums, and related government agencies;
  • Performs special projects as requested;
  • Provides guidance and demonstrations to new employees in similar positions;
  • Keeps supervisors informed of work progress, issues, and potential solutions;
  • Attends meetings and training to stay current on relevant practices and developments;
  • Responds to citizen inquiries courteously and promptly;
  • Coordinates regularly with others to enhance interdepartmental efficiency; and
  • Performs additional duties as required by the classification.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Comprehensive knowledge of current principles and practices of urban public library functions, procedures, policies, and organization;
  • Comprehensive knowledge of community wants, needs, and political processes and procedures that affect the public services offered by the library;
  • Comprehensive knowledge of library and City personnel and financial policies and procedures;
  • Comprehensive knowledge of the materials collections in the library system;
  • Comprehensive knowledge of automated on-line library systems utilized by the library system;
  • Skill in public speaking and presentations;
  • Skill in leadership, motivation, and coordination of the work of others;
  • Ability to provide administrative direction within an urban public library system;
  • Ability to communicate effectively with others, both orally and in writing, using both technical and non-technical language;
  • Ability to understand and follow oral and/or written policies, procedures and instructions;
  • Ability to prepare and present accurate and reliable reports containing findings and recommendations;
  • Ability to operate a personal computer using standard or customized software applications appropriate to assigned tasks;
  • Ability to use logical and creative thought processes to develop original solutions;
  • Ability to perform a wide variety of duties and responsibilities with accuracy and speed under the pressure of time-sensitive deadlines;
  • Ability and willingness to quickly learn and put to use new skills and knowledge brought about by rapidly changing information and/or technology;
  • Ability to anticipate needs, problems, and respond proactively.
  • Integrity, ingenuity, and inventiveness in the performance of assigned tasks.

ACCEPTABLE EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:
  • Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master's Degree in Library Science; and
  • Six or more years of management experience in a public library environment; or
  • Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the work.

REQUIRED SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS:
  • None.

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL ABILITIES:
  • Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing or other communication capabilities, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to communicate effectively;
  • Sufficient vision or other powers of observation, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to review a wide variety of written material in electronic or hardcopy form;
  • Sufficient manual dexterity, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to operate a personal computer and related equipment;
  • Sufficient personal mobility and physical reflexes, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to turn, reach and grasp repetitively;
  • Sufficient strength and endurance, with or without reasonable accommodation to lift, carry, push, pull and move objects, through a full range of motion, up to 20 pounds occasionally, 10 pounds frequently and 5 pounds consistently;
  • Sufficient personal mobility and physical reflexes, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to monitor and supervise library operations at various locations on a regular basis, and to attend library system, City, community, and public meetings at various locations.

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