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Library Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Kings County

Library Director

Hanford, CA · On-site

$120K - $168K/yr

JOB OPPORTUNITY The County of Kings is seeking a Library Director to drive innovation, strengthen community partnerships, and enhance services that empower residents of all ages. This executive-level ...

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Library Director information

See California salary details

$39K

$97.9K

$172.7K

How much do library director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for library director in California is $97,946.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,600.00 and $125,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become a library director?

To become a library director, candidates typically need a master's degree in library science or information studies, along with several years of experience in library management or administration. Leadership skills, knowledge of library operations, and often certification or continuing education are also important for qualifying for the role.

Can librarians make 100k?

Library directors and senior librarians can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and in larger or specialized institutions. Entry-level librarians typically earn less, but salaries increase with leadership roles, certifications, and additional responsibilities.

Is AI replacing librarians?

AI is not replacing librarians, but it is increasingly used as a tool to assist with tasks such as cataloging, research support, and information retrieval. Librarians' expertise in information organization, user service, and community engagement remains essential in managing library resources and providing personalized assistance. The role continues to evolve with technology, emphasizing skills in digital literacy and information management.

What are some common challenges faced by Library Directors when balancing traditional library services with digital transformation initiatives?

Library Directors often encounter the challenge of integrating new technologies and digital resources while maintaining high-quality traditional services like physical collections and community programs. This balancing act can involve budget constraints, staff training needs, and addressing varying patron preferences for print versus digital materials. Directors must also ensure equitable access to digital resources and manage change within their teams, fostering a culture that embraces innovation while honoring the library’s core mission. Open communication and ongoing professional development are key strategies for success in this evolving landscape.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Library Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Director, you need expertise in library science, management, budgeting, and strategic planning, typically supported by a Master's in Library Science (MLS/MLIS) and relevant administrative experience. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital cataloging tools, and data management platforms is often required. Strong leadership, communication, and community engagement skills help foster a collaborative environment and drive library initiatives. These competencies are crucial for effectively managing library operations, adapting to technological changes, and meeting the evolving needs of patrons and staff.

What jobs pay $400 an hour?

High-paying jobs that can reach $400 an hour include specialized roles such as senior corporate attorneys, experienced anesthesiologists, and certain management consultants. These positions typically require advanced education, extensive experience, and often involve high levels of responsibility or expertise. Freelance or consulting roles in niche industries may also command such rates for highly skilled professionals.

What are Library Directors?

Library Directors are senior administrators responsible for overseeing the operations, staff, and strategic direction of a library or library system. They manage budgets, develop policies, coordinate services, and often represent the library within the community or to governing bodies. Library Directors ensure that the library meets the needs of its users, stays current with technological advancements, and complies with relevant laws and regulations. Their leadership is crucial for the ongoing success and development of the library.

What Does a Library Director Do?

A library director oversees the daily operations of a community or public library. The duties of a library director vary, depending on the size of the library. Typical responsibilities include managing librarians and other staff members, organizing shelves, assisting patrons, and supervising library events. As a library director, you may also work closely with the library’s board of directors or other public officials to ensure the library stays on budget while meeting the needs of the community.

More about Library Director jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in California? The most popular types of Library jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Director jobs in California? For Library Director jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Director jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Library Director jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Library Director jobs? Cities in California with the most Library Director job openings:
Library Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Director job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $97,946 per year, or $47.1 per hour.
Library - Director (Palmdale City Library)

Library - Director (Palmdale City Library)

Library Systems & Services LLC

Palmdale, CA • On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
The Library Director advances the LS&S mission, vision, and values through strategic leadership, operational excellence, and a strong commitment to customer service.
The Library Director is responsible for the overall management and performance of a single-location library system, ensuring all contractual obligations, service standards, and operational goals are achieved. This position provides leadership and direction to library staff, fostering a collaborative, customer-focused culture that delivers exceptional library services and creates a vibrant community resource.
The Library Director serves as the primary liaison between LS&S and the customer, building and maintaining strong relationships with local officials, stakeholders, and community partners. This role is responsible for managing the customer relationship, identifying opportunities for service enhancement, and ensuring the library remains responsive to the evolving needs of the community we serve.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITES
  • Demonstrates integrity, professionalism, and sound judgment while promoting the culture, values, mission, and strategic objectives of LS&S and creating thriving libraries in the heart of the communities we serve.
  • Provides overall leadership and direction for library operations, ensuring compliance with contractual obligations, organizational standards, and service expectations.
  • Evaluates library operations, service delivery, and key performance indicators to identify challenges, opportunities, and areas for continuous improvement.
  • Maintains regular communication with the Vice President of Library Operations, including participation in scheduled weekly meetings and timely reporting on operational performance and customer concerns.
  • Leads, coaches, and develops library staff to achieve operational goals and deliver exceptional customer service and patron experiences.
  • Monitors staffing levels and workforce needs to ensure effective service delivery and operational efficiency.
  • Conducts performance evaluations, provides ongoing feedback, and supports employee growth and development.
  • Develops and implements action plans that support organizational objectives, service improvements, and community needs.
  • Maintains knowledge of library trends, emerging technologies, industry best practices, and political, economic, and demographic factors that may impact library services.
  • Plans, implements, and monitors local, regional, and company initiatives, ensuring accountability and successful execution of established goals.
  • Utilizes organizational tools, resources, and best practices to ensure effective and efficient library operations.
  • Analyzes financial reports, usage statistics, demographic data, and other operational metrics to identify trends, inform decision-making, and improve library performance.
  • Oversees the selection, acquisition, maintenance, and management of library collections in accordance with established policies, community needs, and budgetary guidelines.
  • Serves as the primary local representative of LS&S and manages relationships with city and county officials, governing bodies, library boards, community organizations, and other stakeholders.
  • Regularly solicits feedback from customers, stakeholders, and patrons to assess service effectiveness and identify opportunities for enhancement.
  • Promotes and maintains a positive, healthy, inclusive, and safe work environment in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and company policies.
  • Administers and ensures compliance with Company human resources policies, procedures, and employment practices.
  • Understands and upholds the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights, Freedom to Read Statement, and Freedom to View Statement, while supporting client policies regarding collection development and access to materials.
  • Ensures compliance with all laws, regulations, and policies related to patron privacy, confidentiality, and the stewardship of patron records.
  • Performs other duties and special projects as assigned.

CORE COMPETENCIES
The Library Director must demonstrate proficiency in the following competencies:
  • Adaptability - Demonstrates flexibility and resilience in a changing environment while maintaining effectiveness, professionalism, and focus on organizational objectives.
  • Ethical Leadership - Consistently acts with integrity, professionalism, and accountability, ensuring decisions and actions align with LS&S values, policies, and ethical standards.
  • Relationship Building - Establishes and maintains productive working relationships with employees, customers, local officials, stakeholders, community partners, and patrons.
  • Communication - Communicates effectively through verbal, written, and interpersonal interactions, conveying information clearly, professionally, and in a timely manner.
  • Innovation - Identifies opportunities for improvement and develops creative solutions that enhance library operations, services, and community engagement.
  • Customer Focus - Anticipates, understands, and responds to the needs of customers, patrons, and stakeholders while delivering high-quality service and results.
  • Team Leadership - Fosters collaboration, engagement, accountability, and professional development while building high-performing teams.
  • Leadership - Inspires and influences others to achieve organizational goals while promoting a culture of service, inclusion, and continuous improvement.
  • Decision Making - Evaluates information, assesses risks, and makes sound, timely decisions that support operational and organizational success.
  • Organization and Execution - Effectively prioritizes work, manages multiple responsibilities, monitors progress, and ensures successful completion of objectives.
  • Strategic Planning - Develops and implements plans that align with organizational priorities, customer expectations, and community needs.
  • Problem Solving - Identifies root causes of issues, evaluates alternatives, and implements effective solutions.
  • Strategic Thinking - Considers long-term trends, emerging opportunities, and organizational objectives when making recommendations and decisions.

BENEFITS
  • LS&S offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary,and AD&D)
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick Leave, and Holidays)
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Professional Development and Training Opportunities
  • Employee Wellness Resources

Compensation $95,000-$105,000.00 Annually
Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) degree from an accredited institution.
  • Three (3) or more years of supervisory or leadership experience.
  • Three (3) or more years of progressively responsible library management experience, including oversight of library operations, staff, programs, budgets, and customer service.
  • Experience analyzing and applying financial reports, operational metrics, and library-related data, including usage statistics, demographic information, and service trends, to support decision-making and strategic planning.
  • Knowledge of library programming, collection management, budgeting, and financial administration.
  • Experience in a customer-facing environment requiring frequent interaction with patrons and responsibility for resolving patron concerns, responding to inquiries, and ensuring a positive customer experience.
  • Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective relationships with community stakeholders, local officials, boards, and partner organizations.
  • Strong written and verbal communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Proficiency with library technologies, integrated library systems, and other business-related software.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams, with the ability to effectively utilize technology for communication, reporting, data analysis, presentations, and daily business operations.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to remain stationary for extended periods while working at a computer, attending meetings, or completing detailed administrative tasks.
  • Ability to frequently operate a computer and other standard office equipment.
  • Ability to occasionally lift, carry, push, or move materials weighing up to twenty-five (25) pounds, including books, files, supplies, and library materials.

Ability to travel locally and, on occasion, regionally as required to support library operations, customer relationships, meetings, and training activities.
Salary Description
$90,000-$105,000 Annually

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