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Library Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Head of Mills Music Library

Madison, WI · On-site +1

$75K - $110K/yr

Library/Archive Manager I Job Summary: The Head of Mills Music Library serves as the University of Wisconsin-Madison Libraries' lead librarian for music and dance, overseeing all operations, services ...

Shelver

Fitchburg, WI · On-site

$16/hr

Library Division: Access Services Opening Date: 07/22/2026 Closing Date: 8/9/2026 11:59 PM Central Description The Fitchburg Public Library is seeking a reliable and detail-oriented Shelver to help ...

Description The Fitchburg Public Library is seeking a reliable and detail-oriented Shelver to help create an inviting and organized environment for our patrons. Your love for books can make a ...

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Library information

See Madison, WI salary details

$8

$15

$29

How much do library jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for library in Madison, WI is $15.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.88 and $17.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you get hired at a library with no experience?

Library positions such as library assistants or clerks often do not require prior experience and may provide on-the-job training. Having good organizational skills, customer service abilities, and familiarity with library systems can improve chances of hiring, even without previous experience. Entry-level roles typically focus on supporting library operations and customer needs.

Is it hard to get hired as a librarian?

Getting hired as a librarian typically requires a master's degree in library science or information studies and relevant experience. Competition can vary depending on the location and type of library, but strong organizational skills and familiarity with library management systems improve job prospects.

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

To thrive as a Librarian, you typically need a Master’s degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS), strong research skills, and organizational abilities. Familiarity with library management systems, digital archives, and cataloguing tools like MARC or Dewey Decimal Classification is essential. Excellent communication, customer service, and problem-solving skills help librarians engage diverse patrons and collaborate with colleagues. These competencies ensure effective resource management, support lifelong learning, and enhance community access to information.

What kind of jobs do libraries offer?

Libraries offer a variety of jobs including librarian, library assistant, archivist, cataloger, and technical services staff. These roles often require skills in organization, customer service, and familiarity with library management systems or cataloging tools. Positions may be full-time, part-time, or seasonal, and some roles require relevant certifications or degrees in library science.

Can you work at a library without being a librarian?

Yes, many library jobs do not require a librarian certification and include roles such as library assistants, clerks, or technicians. These positions often involve tasks like shelving, checking out materials, and helping patrons, and may require customer service skills and familiarity with library systems. Certification is typically not necessary unless applying for professional librarian roles with specific qualifications.

What do library workers do?

Library workers assist patrons in finding and borrowing materials, organize and maintain collections, and help with research and technology use. They may also plan educational programs, manage digital resources, and support community events. The specific duties depend on the role, such as librarian, library assistant, or technician, but all focus on making information accessible to the public.

What Qualifications Do I Need to Get a Job in a Library?

Different library jobs have varying qualifications. To become a librarian, you need a master’s degree in either library science or information studies. This is important if you work with students in an academic setting. You also need some research experience and a strong awareness of research procedures and tools. Library technicians and assistants need to have a high school diploma or a GED certificate and strong administrative skills. If you are seeking a job in library computer support, you need at least a bachelor’s degree in information technologies.

What are some common challenges faced by library staff when adapting to digital resources and technology?

Library staff often encounter challenges such as staying current with rapidly evolving digital platforms, assisting patrons with varying levels of tech literacy, and integrating new technologies with existing catalog systems. Balancing traditional library services with digital resource management requires ongoing training and flexibility. However, many libraries provide professional development opportunities and foster a supportive team environment to help staff successfully navigate these changes.

What jobs can you work at a library?

Jobs at a library include librarian, library assistant, library technician, archivist, and library clerk. These roles involve tasks such as managing collections, assisting patrons, cataloging materials, and maintaining library operations, often requiring relevant education or certifications. Staff typically work during library hours and use tools like library management software.

Is librarian a low stress job?

Librarians typically experience moderate stress levels, as their work involves managing collections, assisting patrons, and maintaining organization. Factors such as workload, library size, and public interaction can influence stress, but the job generally offers a calm environment with regular hours. Certification and strong organizational skills are often required for success in this role.

What is the difference between Library vs Archivist?

AspectLibraryArchivist
Required CredentialsLibrary degree or certification, MLS/MLISArchival certification, MLS/MLIS often preferred
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special librariesArchives, museums, historical institutions
Industry UsageInformation management, education, public servicePreservation, historical records, cultural heritage

Libraries and archivists both manage information resources, but libraries focus on providing access to current materials for the public or specific groups, while archivists preserve historical records and rare collections. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Madison, WI? The most popular types of Library jobs in Madison, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Library jobs in Madison, WI? For Library jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Library jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Library job openings:
Infographic showing various Library job openings in Madison, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,005 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Library Security Monitor - Multiple Locations

Madison, City of (WI)

Madison, WI • On-site

$20.89/hr

Other

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

General Description The Madison Public Library is looking to hire Library Security Monitors. If you are interested in a Library Security Monitor position, this is your opportunity to apply. Library Security Monitors provide critical safety assistance and customer service to library customers and staff.

The work involves promoting a welcoming and helpful library atmosphere, ensuring customers follow all facility rules, policies, and City ordinances, resolving conflicts, and supporting customers and staff so that customers have a successful library experience. In addition, the work may include checking materials in and out, assisting people with basic computer tasks, and frontline service to customers at library service desks. A desire to help your community, strong communication skills, the ability to work as part of a team, and flexibility are necessary to be successful in this position.

The work is performed under the general oversight of a Library Program Coordinator, Librarian or a Neighborhood Library Supervisor. Security Monitors are responsible for greeting patrons and educating them on appropriate library behaviors. Security Monitors provide a good deal of support to library customers experiencing homelessness, as well as maintain a positive atmosphere for all patrons in a small library building or within designated areas of the Central Library, where many patrons are trying to share the same space.

Current Vacancies: Imagination Center Library (1814 Parkside Dr) Hawthorne Library (2707 E Washington Ave) Approximately 15 hours (or 16 hours at Central Library) per week, including weekdays, weekends and evenings. Hours will vary between: 9:15 am - 8:00 pm, Monday - Friday 8:45 am - 5:00 pm, Saturday This posting may be used to fill vacancies that occur in this classification at other Libraries that may arise over the next four (4) months. APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED UNTIL THE CLOSING DATE, HOWEVER THE SELECTION PROCESS MAY BEGIN PRIOR TO THE CLOSING DATE BASED UPON THE NEEDS OF DEPARTMENT.

Black, Indigenous, people of color, women, trans, nonbinary, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. We value the unique blend of lived experiences and diverse perspectives that comes from non-traditional education pathways and the variety of transferrable skills each candidate brings to the table. We value diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

Even if every item on the job posting doesn't match your experience perfectly, we encourage you to apply and share how your skills and experience can best serve our community. Examples of Duties and Responsibilities Greet library patrons and set a welcoming tone for all library visitors. Patrol and secure assigned areas of the facility for patron safety and well being.

Observe behavior and approach patrons or unauthorized personnel to stop unauthorized activities or actions. Educate library users on appropriate behaviors and enforce the library's behavior policy. Perform routine library tasks, such as shelving, straightening shelves and displays, signing people up for the internet, and checking items in and out.

Encourage appropriate library behavior for all patrons, especially elementary, middle and high school students at the library, by encouraging the students to read and complete homework. Build relationships with patrons of all ages to encourage ongoing positive relationships between patrons and library staff. Set up video or board games for the students in the library to enjoy, when appropriate.

Perform related work as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Six (6) months of experience in a public contact or customer service job. - OR - Two (2) years experience in applying the following: Security principles and practices in open public facilities AND; Familiarity with the following: The practices and procedures of handling difficult people and difficult situations.

Based on the number of qualified applicants, random selection may be used to determine which applicants are invited to interview for these positions. The City of Madison strives to provide exceptional customer service to all its residents and visitors. Therefore successful candidates will have demonstrated ability to effectively work with multicultural communities.

For a complete list of the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities, please see the Library Security Monitor class specification. Special Requirements Ability to meet the transportation requirements of the position. Physical Requirements: Access all areas of the library building in order to monitor security.

Intervene with clients who are disruptive or behaving inappropriately. Stand for extended periods of time, up to an hour, walk rounds, climb stairs, and move rapidly, including up and down stairs, in an emergency situation.