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Public Librarian Certification Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$70K/yr

Public Librarian's Professional Certificate issued by the State of New York, required * General experience working with the public and diverse communities * Excellent customer relations and ...

$55K/yr

Public Librarian's Professional Certificate issued by the State of New York Required Skills * Strong commitment to public service and the ability to work well with a diverse patronage * Experience ...

Library Specialist

Omaha, NE · On-site

$22.95/hr

Must register for Nebraska Public Librarian Certification through the Nebraska Library Commission within 30 days of the hiring date. Must complete necessary continuing education requirements to keep ...

$70K/yr

Public Librarian's Professional Certificate issued by the State of New York, required * General experience working with the public and diverse communities * Excellent customer relations and ...

$55K/yr

Public Librarian's Professional Certificate issued by the State of New York will be required (within 45 days upon hire) for any candidate with a Master's in Library and Information Studies Required ...

$55K/yr

Public Librarian's Professional Certificate issued by the State of New York Required Skills * Strong commitment to public service and the ability to work well with a diverse patronage * Experience ...

Library Coordinator

Nambe, NM · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Knowledge of public library services and operation and of library collections. · Upon hiring, the library director is expected to earn Librarian Certification I. · Must be First Aid/CPR Certified ...

Must register for Nebraska Public Librarian Certification through the Nebraska Library Commission within 30 days of the hiring date. Must complete necessary continuing education requirements to keep ...

NY · On-site

$70 - $75/hr

Possession of a New York State Public Librarian's professional certificate at time of appointment. SALARY RANGE: $70,000-$75,000 Deadline: applications received by September 8th will receive higher ...

$55K/yr

Public Librarian's Professional Certificate issued by the State of New York * Subject area expertise or educational background in any of the following: Africana Studies or African American Studies.

LIBRARIAN I (T & E)

Yonkers, NY · On-site

$62K - $69K/yr

Eligibility for a New York State Public Librarian's Professional certificate at the time of application; possession of the certificate at the time of appointment. PROMOTIONAL: One (1) year permanent ...

Showing results 41-60

Public Librarian Certification information

See salary details

$30.5K

$64.2K

$102K

How much do public librarian certification jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for public librarian certification in the United States is $64,190.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $78,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is public librarian certification?

Public Librarian Certification is a formal credential that verifies an individual has met specific educational and professional requirements to work as a public librarian. Requirements for certification often vary by state or country but typically include a master's degree in library science from an accredited program and sometimes additional coursework or examinations. Certification ensures that librarians possess the necessary skills and knowledge to provide quality library services to the public. Maintaining certification may require ongoing professional development or continuing education. This process helps uphold high standards in library service and administration.

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

To thrive as a Public Librarian, you need a master's degree in library science (MLS/MLIS) from an ALA-accredited program, strong organizational abilities, and a solid understanding of information management. Familiarity with library cataloging systems, digital databases, and relevant certifications such as state librarian certification is typically required. Excellent communication, customer service, and community engagement skills set exceptional librarians apart. These competencies are crucial for providing valuable information services, fostering community connections, and ensuring efficient library operations.

What are some common challenges faced by public librarians after obtaining certification, and how can new professionals prepare for them?

After obtaining Public Librarian Certification, new professionals often encounter challenges such as managing diverse patron needs, staying current with evolving technology, and balancing multiple responsibilities like programming, reference services, and community outreach. Building strong communication and time management skills, seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues, and participating in ongoing professional development can help new librarians navigate these challenges successfully. Engaging with local and national library associations is also beneficial for networking and staying informed about industry trends.

What is the difference between Public Librarian Certification vs Library Assistant Certification?

AspectPublic Librarian CertificationLibrary Assistant Certification
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS), certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent, optional certification
Work EnvironmentPublic libraries, educational institutionsPublic, school, or special libraries
Employer & Industry UsagePublic library systems, government agenciesLibraries, schools, community centers
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding certification requirements for librariansEntry-level library roles, certification options

Public Librarian Certification typically requires a master's degree in Library Science and is necessary for professional librarian roles in public libraries. Library Assistant Certification is often optional or based on specific library policies, suitable for entry-level positions. The certifications differ mainly in educational requirements and job responsibilities, with public librarian certification focusing on advanced skills and management, while library assistant roles support daily library operations.

What qualifications do you need to work at a public library?

Public librarians typically need a master's degree in library science (MLS) or library and information science (MLIS) from an American Library Association-accredited program. Relevant skills include strong communication, organization, and computer proficiency, and some positions may require certification or experience in specific areas such as youth services or technical support.
More about Public Librarian Certification jobs

What states have the most Public Librarian Certification jobs?

States with the most job openings for Public Librarian Certification jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Public Librarian Certification jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Librarian Certification jobs are:

Infographic showing various Public Librarian Certification job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,190 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

$70K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Provides reference and reader's advisory services for young adults and their parents/caregivers using print and electronic resources

  • Develops, maintains, and promotes the young adult collection and plans age-appropriate programs and class visits for young adults ages 13-17

  • Visits schools, community organizations, and participates in community events to promote library services, collections, and programs


Job description

We offer thousands of free programs every day for people from all walks of life-immigrants learning a new language, aspiring entrepreneurs launching their dreams, children discovering the world, people of all ages exploring arts and culture. And we give patrons millions of opportunities to enjoy one of life's greatest satisfactions: the discovery of a good book.

Now's your chance to join the best team in Brooklyn!

The Young Adult Librarian, under the overall supervision of the Branch Manager, works as part of the branch team and performs basic library work concentrating on service to Young Adults and their parents and caregivers.
This position requires professional knowledge and judgment, including, but not limited to, reference and reader's advisory services, collection development, and individual/group programming. The schedule is 35 hours per week and reports directly to the Assistant Branch Manager.

This is a full-time, union, non-exempt position. The hiring salary for this position is $70,397.60.

Responsibilities

  • Provides reference and reader's advisory services for all age groups utilizing print and electronic resources

  • Develops, maintains, and promotes the young adult collection in the branch

  • Maintains the attractive appearance of the young adult room/area through appropriate displays

  • Plans, conducts, schedules, and evaluates age-appropriate programs and class visits for young adults ages 13-17 and their educators

  • Visits schools, neighborhood organizations, community meetings and participates in community affairs promoting Brooklyn Public Library services, collections and programs

  • Acts as an advocate for young adults and their educational and social needs within the library and engages in work with schools, and other local agencies that work with young adults

  • Serves on committees when necessary

  • Interprets and implements BPL policy

  • Performs other duties as assigned

Qualifications

  • Master's Degree in Library Science from an ALA accredited library school; Public Librarian's Professional Certificate issued by the State of New York, required

  • General experience working with the public and diverse communities

  • Excellent customer relations and communication skills

  • Knowledge of young adult literature and programming

  • Basic understanding of adolescent development and issues facing young adults in urban communities

  • Excitement in engaging, nurturing and mentoring young adults

  • Working knowledge of current and emerging library technology, service and programming trends for young adults, and urban public library issues

  • Familiarity with internet, electronic databases, social media, and basic computer applications

  • Bilingual skills highly desirable

  • Candidates must be flexible, able to handle multiple competing priorities and tasks, adaptable to change and able to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-volume environment

  • Ability to bend, reach, sit and stand as needed

  • Ability to work evenings and weekends

We seek professionals dedicated to providing excellent customer service, developing fruitful partnerships in the community, and implementing programs aligned with our mission and vision. You will be immersed in a motivating and challenging environment where innovation is key to the organization. If you are looking to be a part of a stimulating workplace that is highly regarded by its culturally diverse community, BPL is the place to be.

Brooklyn Public Library is an equal opportunity employer.