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Library Director Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Conservator

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$121K - $158K/yr

Summary The Library of Congress shares its vast collections of books, manuscripts, photographs ... Major projects pursued or led by the incumbent have a direct impact on the division or even the ...

Showing results 21-40

Library Director information

See Washington salary details

$44.7K

$112.4K

$198.2K

How much do library director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for library director in Washington is $112,405.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,000.00 and $143,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do you need to be a library director?

A library director typically needs a master's degree in library science or information management from an ALA-accredited program. Relevant experience in library management, strong leadership skills, and knowledge of library operations and technology are also important qualifications.

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 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 do you do as a library director?

A library director oversees the daily operations of a library, manages staff, develops budgets, plans programs, and ensures the library meets community needs. They often coordinate with city officials, implement policies, and may hold a master's degree in library science or a related field. Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills are essential for this role.

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 most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Library jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Director jobs in Washington? For Library Director jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Director jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Library Director jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Library Director jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Library Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Director job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,405 per year, or $54 per hour.

$29 - $35/hr

Part-time

PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description

LAC Federal is seeking a Reference Librarian to provide high-quality reference, research assistance, and instructional support to students, faculty, staff, and community patrons through online platforms and at the library service desk. In this role, the Reference Librarian will guide users in effectively navigating library resources, including the online catalog, electronic databases, and print and non-print collections.


Additionally, the Reference Librarian may be responsible for other assigned duties such as gathering and analyzing usage statistics, delivering library instruction sessions, conducting student research consultations, and performing occasional circulation desk functions. Schedule flexibility is required, as the candidate must be available for hours of operation during the fall semester, including the library's evening hours. On rare occasions, if the building needs to close but services are still needed, the employee is expected to work remotely.


Employment Type: Temporary - Part Time/20 hours per week. 

Dates of Employment August 31, 2026 - October 2, 2026


Schedule: Schedule may adjust depending on semester schedule:

Monday - Thursday, 4:00pm-8:00pm

Friday, 1:00pm-5:00pm


NOTE: Monday, September 7 - Library will be closed.


Responsibilities

  • Deliver reference and research services to library users both in-person and virtually.
  • Assist patrons in the effective use of library technologies, databases, and research tools.
  • Provide individualized research support to students through consultations.
  • Conduct instructional sessions for classes, faculty, and other library users to promote information literacy and enhance research skills.
  • Maintain knowledge of library collections, both print and digital, to support user needs.
  • Capture and report library usage statistics as directed.
  • Collaborate with library staff to enhance services and contribute to special projects as assigned, such as creating and/or updating library guides and instructional resources.
  • Support circulation functions as needed.
  • Stay current with trends and emerging technologies related to academic library reference services.
  • Participate in professional development activities to maintain and improve knowledge and skills relevant to the role.

Requirements

  • Minimum of one (1) year of recent experience providing reference services in a public, research, or academic library setting.
  • Proficiency with electronic information systems, research databases, and Microsoft Office applications.
  • Familiarity with technologies used in academic libraries for reference and instructional purposes.
  • Strong knowledge of library practices and procedures, including reference and instructional services.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and responsibilities in a dynamic service environment.
  • Strong commitment to customer service and student success.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Academic library experience.
  • Experience with Primo Discovery Service by Ex Libris strongly preferred.
  • Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or equivalent from an ALA-accredited program.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while providing reference, research, and circulation services at a public service desk and conducting virtual or in-person consultations. 
  • Ability to use a computer and other office technology for prolonged periods, including frequent keyboarding, viewing computer screens, utilizing library databases, preparing instructional materials, and participating in virtual meetings or remote work as required. 
  • Ability to move throughout the library to assist patrons, retrieve and shelve library materials, transport items weighing up to 20 pounds, and perform occasional bending, reaching, and lifting associated with library operations.

Part-Time: 

  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)

EEO Statement

The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Nothing in this job specification restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. 

Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. 

To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. 

Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.