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Library Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Anaheim Public Library

Library Director

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$140 - $190/hr

The director will actively engage with residents, schools, businesses, nonprofits, and other stakeholders to ensure that Library programs and services meet the diverse needs of Redwood City ...

GovernmentJobs.com

Library Assistant

Larkspur, CA · On-site

Under the direction of the Library Director, the Library Assistant provides customer service support at the Larkspur Library, a member of the MARINet Consortium. The Library Assistant is an ...

City of Larkspur CA

Library Assistant

Larkspur, CA · On-site

$26.83 - $35.96/hr

There are no direct reports. Examples of Duties ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Include but are not limited to the following:) * Greet customers and provide customer service to library patrons ...

City of Larkspur, CA

Library Assistant

Larkspur, CA · On-site

$26.83 - $35.96/hr

There are no direct reports. Examples of Duties ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Include but are not limited to the following:) * Greet customers and provide customer service to library patrons ...

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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 Aug 24, 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.

What is a library director?

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.

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 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.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $97,946 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Library Director

Anaheim Public Library

Redwood City, CA • On-site

$140 - $190/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

The ideal candidate will be a visible and visionary leader in the library profession, known for advancing innovative and dynamic programs and services that meet current and emerging community needs. Willingness and ability to work collaboratively with library staff at all levels, library support groups, other City departments, and community partners to expand service capacity; to focus on the big picture of community needs; and to push the boundaries of what people traditionally expect from libraries are essential. The next director will model Redwood City’s values of Excellence, Integrity, Service, Collaboration, Inclusion, and Innovation in both decision-making and leadership style.

Community Engagement & Customer Focus

This role requires a leader who values community input, equity, and inclusion. The director will actively engage with residents, schools, businesses, nonprofits, and other stakeholders to ensure that Library programs and services meet the diverse needs of Redwood City’s community. The ideal candidate will be a strong and articulate communicator with a history of serving as an effective relationship and partnership builder. A track record of measuring participation and satisfaction and using data to improve service delivery is essential.

Leadership & Collaboration

The new director will work closely with City departments, partner agencies, and community organizations to develop responsive services and programs. Redwood City’s leadership team values collaboration, and a can-do attitude will align well with the department’s existing culture. The successful candidate will contribute thoughtfully to organization-wide initiatives, balancing departmental priorities with broader City goals. The ideal candidate will bring strong project management, budgeting, delegation, and customer service skills, along with a resourceful and solution-oriented mindset.

Team Leadership & Professional Development

Department staff will appreciate a thoughtful and approachable leader who listens, understands the challenges of delivering diverse programs, and supports professional growth. The ideal candidate will be relatable, approachable, and credible with a diverse workforce, earning trust through authenticity and fairness. Encouraging a culture of engagement, transparency, accountability, and mutual support across all levels the department is an important skill set. The successful candidate should demonstrate the ability to support a workplace where staff feel informed, valued, and well-equipped to serve the community. Experience managing in a union environment, mentoring staff, and fostering a positive workplace culture is highly valued. The City is seeking a leader who can balance big-picture strategy with hands-on involvement when needed.

Innovation, Strategic Thinking, and Change Management

The ideal candidate will be adept at data-driven decision-making and budget management while balancing the nuances of community needs. They will assess services, adapt based on feedback and best practices, and implement change thoughtfully and effectively. Experience with change management in a public-facing environment and a practical approach to technology and resource allocation are key attributes. A forward thinker, the individual selected will have the proven ability to be proactive in their approach to designing the future of library services in alignment with demographic shifts, emerging technologies, and other changing conditions. The ideal candidate will have a history of staying abreast of new tools, developing trends, and best practices in the profession.

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities will be considered qualifying. A career history that reflects a typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be: five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience in professional public library administration. A Bachelor’s degree, and a Master of Library Science degree from an accredited college or university are required.

Applications are due 8/16/2026 at 11:59 pm

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