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Local Library Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

City of Medford

Youth Services Librarian

Medford, MA · On-site

$24/hr

Assists with readers' advisory, local library network item holds requests, out-of-network hold requests compiled and forwarded to the interlibrary loan librarian as needed. * Coordinates staffing of ...

Town of Needham

Children's Librarian

Needham, MA · On-site

$70K - $77K/yr

Evaluate, weed, and develop assigned sections of the Children's Room Materials Collections. * Assist the Children's Supervisor in providing outreach programs, services and library tours to local ...

Town of Needham

Children's Librarian

Needham, MA · On-site

$70K - $77K/yr

Evaluate, weed, and develop assigned sections of the Children's Room Materials Collections. * Assist the Children's Supervisor in providing outreach programs, services and library tours to local ...

Town of Needham

Children's Librarian

Needham, MA

$70K - $77K/yr

Evaluate, weed, and develop assigned sections of the Children's Room Materials Collections. Assist the Children's Supervisor in providing outreach programs, services and library tours to local ...

Town of Needham, MA

Children's Librarian

Needham, MA · On-site

$70K - $77K/yr

Evaluate, weed, and develop assigned sections of the Children's Room Materials Collections. * Assist the Children's Supervisor in providing outreach programs, services and library tours to local ...

Town of Needham

Children's Librarian

Needham, MA · On-site

$70K - $77K/yr

Evaluate, weed, and develop assigned sections of the Children's Room Materials Collections. * Assist the Children's Supervisor in providing outreach programs, services and library tours to local ...

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Local Library information

See Massachusetts salary details

$33.9K

$71.2K

$111.9K

How much do local library jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for local library in Massachusetts is $71,199.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,200.00 and $81,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a local library?

Local libraries are community-based institutions that provide access to a wide range of books, digital resources, and other educational materials. They offer services such as lending books, providing internet access, hosting events, and supporting literacy and lifelong learning for people of all ages. Local libraries are typically funded by local government and are free or low-cost to use, making them an important resource for education and community engagement.

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

To excel as a Local Librarian, you need a solid understanding of information management, cataloging, and library science, often backed by a degree in library science or a related field. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital databases, and cataloging tools like MARC is typically required. Outstanding customer service, communication, and organizational skills help librarians engage with patrons and support diverse community needs. These combined skills ensure efficient resource management, improved access to information, and a welcoming environment for all library users.

What are some common challenges faced by staff working in a local library, and how can they be addressed?

Staff working in a local library often face challenges such as managing a diverse patron base, adapting to new technologies, and balancing multiple responsibilities like customer service, cataloging, and event coordination. Addressing these challenges involves strong communication skills, ongoing professional development, and collaboration with colleagues to share best practices. Many libraries also offer training sessions and encourage teamwork to create a supportive environment and ensure staff can effectively meet community needs.

What is the difference between Local Library vs Public Librarian?

AspectLocal LibraryPublic Librarian
CredentialsLibrary degree or certificationLibrary degree or certification
Work EnvironmentCommunity libraries, schools, or private institutionsPublic libraries, community centers
Employer & IndustryLocal government, educational institutionsMunicipal government, public sector
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding library roles, services, or locationsCareer info, job roles, or qualifications in public libraries

While both roles involve working in libraries, a Local Library refers to the physical library location or institution, whereas a Public Librarian is a professional who manages library services in public libraries. The Public Librarian typically holds similar credentials but focuses on providing community services, programs, and information access.

Can you get a job at a local library with no experience?

Many entry-level positions at local libraries, such as library assistants or clerks, do not require prior experience. Employers often look for good communication skills, a willingness to learn, and basic computer literacy; some positions may provide on-the-job training. Volunteering at a library can also help build relevant experience for paid roles.

What do you need to work at a local library?

To work at a local library, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, good communication skills, and the ability to handle customer service tasks. Some positions may require knowledge of library systems or computer skills, and a background check is often conducted. Volunteer experience or familiarity with books and information management can be beneficial.

What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Massachusetts?

The most popular types of Library jobs in Massachusetts are:

What are popular job titles related to Local Library jobs in Massachusetts?

For Local Library jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Local Library jobs in Massachusetts look for?

The top searched job categories for Local Library jobs in Massachusetts are:

Local Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Local Library job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,199 per year, or $34.2 per hour.

Youth Services Librarian

City of Medford

Medford, MA • On-site

$24/hr

Part-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

This position is responsible for leading library programs for youth ages 0-18, providing circulation and reference assistance, collection development and cataloging at the public service desks in the Children’s and Teen rooms.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
  • Provides extensive public service at the Youth Service Desks and via telephone or email.
  • Provides technical support to patrons and staff to ensure that patrons can access library services and digital tools.
  • Prepares statistical, review and inventory reports.
  • Assists with readers’ advisory, local library network item holds requests, out-of-network hold requests compiled and forwarded to the interlibrary loan librarian as needed.
  • Coordinates staffing of the service desk; greets patrons, answer questions, makes book recommendations, oversees the work of and guides staff.
  • Supports supervisors in planning and coordinating programming that meets the needs of patrons and the community.
  • Selecting items for collection development including purchasing print and non-print media.
  • Enforces the behavior policy to maintain a positive and safe environment for youth.
  • Plans, promotes, and implements engaging programs for children and coordinates summer reading program.
  • Provides, coordinates, and supervises reference and readers advisory services to children, young adults, teachers, and caregivers.
  • Creates book displays, flyers, and posts on social media to promote the Youth Services collection and services to publicize Library events.
  • Performs similar or related work as required.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
Any equivalent combination of the below-listed education, training, certification, and experience is qualifying.
  • Master's of Library and Information Science
  • 1 to 3 years of experience preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:
  • Knowledge of relevant Massachusetts General Laws related to essential functions; principles and practices of public library programs and services to children and young adults; readers advisory skills; computer and portable device operation; youth literature.
  • Strong communication skills, problem solving skills and customer service skills; use of computer programs Microsoft Office and Google Suites, email, Internet search engines and website maintenance; motivation, building relationships, and developing programs and services to meet the needs of the community; organization and planning as well as a broad interest in learning and literature.  
  • Ability to multi-task and manage conflict; work under fast paced conditions; communicate effectively both orally and in writing; maintain good public relations and to maintain effective collaborative working relationships with City departments, department heads, fellow employees, officials and the general public and to respond in a courteous and professional manner; meet deadlines; work independently; learn new software as needed. 

PHYSICAL & ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS:
The physical and environmental demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential function of this job.
  • Works primarily indoors in a public library setting. 
  • Sits or stands, with intermittent periods of stooping and walking. May be required to move objects such as files, boxes of paper, office supplies, and office equipment weighing up to 30 lbs. 
  • Frequently using computers, library equipment (i.e., laser cutter, cutting machines, sewing machines, etc.), book labeling, and creating handouts.
  • Visual demands routinely require reading documents for general understanding and analytical purposes.

The City of Medford is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/504 Employer Residents of the City of Medford, Women, People of Color, Veterans and Persons with Disabilities are encouraged to apply.