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Library Director Jobs in Bellingham, WA (NOW HIRING)

Marketing Coordinator

Ferndale, WA · On-site

$44K - $61K/yr

Help maintain digital content libraries and shared resources for easy access and version control ... Required to work with the Marketing Director or Manager to make sure that the signage created is on ...

Library Director information

See Bellingham, WA salary details

$41.1K

$103.2K

$181.9K

How much do library director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for library director in Bellingham, WA is $103,156.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,300.00 and $132,000.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Bellingham, WA?

The most popular types of Library jobs in Bellingham, WA are:

What job categories do people searching Library Director jobs in Bellingham, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Director jobs in Bellingham, WA are:

What cities near Bellingham, WA are hiring for Library Director jobs?

Cities near Bellingham, WA with the most Library Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Director job openings in Bellingham, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $103,156 per year, or $49.6 per hour.

Library Assistant - Youth Services

City of Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon, WA • On-site

$21.90 - $28.81/hr

Part-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Summary Mount Vernon City Library is recruiting for enthusiastic and motivated individuals who are excited about working for a vibrant and thriving City and Library. We are currently looking for people to become Library Assistants to help the Library with day-to-day operations on a part-time basis. Library Assistants work with the public to provide excellent library services at the Mount Vernon City Library.

The ideal candidate: Provides impressive customer service: you think about the patrons and how we can best serve our community. Is friendly and warm: you just like helping people and making their day. Enjoybeing on the move; you will be busy, and the job is sometimes physical.

Wants to build relationships: you greet people and welcome them into our libraries. You register new members for library cards, help them with account questions, request and recommend books, and show all the Library has to offer. Is collaborative: you want to work in a collaborative environment and for an organization that values teamwork and communication; you have great ideas to share on library committees and staff-led teams.

Is curious: you connect people to the right person or resource and are always learning to enhance your Library and community knowledge. Is a great communicator: you can communicate effectively and appropriately with people from diverse backgrounds, both externally and internally. Is flexible and accommodating: the ideal candidate has availability, especially during evenings and weekends.

Preference may be given to bilingual candidates, particularly in Spanish/English. Under general supervision, provides direct and indirect customer service and assistance to ensure patrons have access to all information, materials, and resources provided by the Library. Essential Functions Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills.

This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class. Employees are required to be in attendance and prepared to begin work at their assigned work location on the specified days and hours. Factors such as regular attendance at the job are not routinely listed in job descriptions but are an essential function.

Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following: Provides customer service and assistance to Library patrons at the circulation desk, curbside, and via phone and email; assists with creating new library accounts, renewing and updating existing accounts, and issuing internet access codes; collects and processes account payments. Responds to general questions and explain Library policies and procedures; assists patrons with locating materials and using library resources; collects and submits patron purchase requests. Assists patrons with the use of Library technology to include web browsers, databases, printers, and copiers.

Collects and checks-in materials returned to the Library; submits items for mending, cleaning, damage evaluation, and circulation updates as needed; returns materials to appropriate shelf locations; reorganizes out of place materials as needed. Provides readers with suggestions through the use of book lists, displays, and website carousel. Participates in evaluating current material collections; provides suggestions for collection development and purchases.

Assists with developing and setting up events and programs; may assists with preparing event materials; attends and participates in outreach events. Performs a variety of administrative duties and assists other Library staff with various tasks as needed. Attends and participates in Library meetings and training sessions as required.

Performs related duties as assigned. Qualifications Education, Training, and Experience Guidelines High school diploma or GED equivalent AND some previous customer service or Library related experience; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Knowledge of: Applicable local, State, and Federal laws, codes, regulations, and ordinances.

General Library policies, procedures, and equipment. Customer service principles, practices, and etiquette. Records maintenance and retention policies and procedures.

Library cataloging and Dewey decimal systems. Money handling practices. Library software systems and technology resources.

Skill in: Maintaining accurate records and filing systems. Interacting tactfully and professionally with City staff, outside agencies, and the public. Handling and maintaining the confidentiality of patron information.

Organizing and prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines. Completing multiple tasks simultaneously. Typing and entering data with speed and accuracy.

Preparing clear and concise communications, reports, and technical documents. Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships. Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.

Additional Duties - Youth Services Division Provides excellent customer service to youth and families; assists in the preparation and presentation of programs for children and youth, including story times. Prepares marketing and event materials, social media posts and website content. Promotes reading and use of library services through displays, booklists, bulletin boards and other activities to motivate increased use.

Assists librarian in maintenance of juvenile collection. Offers advanced help with youth and teen reader's advisory. Shelves print and non-print material; assists in keeping library picked up and attractive Knowledgeable about all library services, resources, and programs and how to access them from inside and outside of the library.

Assist patrons internally and externally of the library with questions, provide information regarding library policies and procedures. Research, respond to questions, and resolve inquiries; help customers complete forms, and provide guidance in assigned area of responsibility. Assist patrons with instruction on using library computer stations and basic computer literacy, including navigating our online resources, using eBooks, and working with typical office software.

Assists with express check-out machines, copiers and other equipment. BENEFITS: Sick leave. Paid Holidays (if a holiday falls on a regularly scheduled workday, you will receive holiday pay) ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: The position is securely funded at 12 hours per week but is currently funded at 19 hours per week until January 1, 2027.

Anticipated Schedule: Wednesdays: 10:15 am - 6:15 pm Thursdays: 10:15 am - 6:15 pm Saturdays: 12:15 pm - 4:15 pm APPLICATION PROCESS: Interested applicants must submit a cover letter and resume with their application in order to be considered for the position. Applications must be received no later than Sunday, September 6, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. For additional information, or a complete job description, please click on https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/mtvernonwa/classspecs The City of Mount Vernon provides and enforces a drug-free workplace and maintains a smoke free work environment

The City of Mount Vernon is an Equal Opportunity Employer.