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Public Libraries Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

City of Aurora

Librarian - Adult Services

Aurora, CO · On-site

$54K - $68K/yr

... public libraries, the Aurora History Museum and Historic Sites, Aurora Fox Arts Center, The People's Building, and community events, programs, and activities for all ages.Please go towww.AuroraGov ...

City of Aurora

Library Security Clerk

Aurora, CO

$18.65 - $23.31/hr

... public libraries, the Aurora History Museum and Historic Sites, Aurora Fox Arts Center, The People's Building, and community events, programs, and activities for all ages.Please go towww.AuroraGov ...

City of Aurora

Library Clerk

Aurora, CO · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

... 5 public libraries, the Aurora History Museum and Historic Sites, Aurora Fox Arts Center, The People's Building, and community events, programs, and activities for all ages. Please go to www.

City of Loveland

Library Manager

Loveland, CO · On-site

Established in 1901, Loveland Public Library serves more than 80,000 city residents from a single 57,225 sq. ft. branch that was renovated in 2010. Apply today to join more than 800 employees who ...

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All JobsPublic Libraries JobsPublic Libraries Jobs in Colorado

Public Libraries information

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$41.5K

$114.9K

$174K

How much do public libraries jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for public libraries in Colorado is $114,920.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,100.00 and $139,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are public libraries?

Public libraries are community-based institutions that provide free access to books, digital resources, educational programs, and other informational materials. They serve people of all ages and backgrounds, offering a welcoming space for learning, research, and recreation. Public libraries often host events, classes, and community activities, and they play a vital role in promoting literacy and lifelong learning. Additionally, they provide access to computers, the internet, and other technology resources to help bridge the digital divide.

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 generally need a Master's degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS) and strong organizational and research skills. Familiarity with library management systems, digital cataloging tools, and information databases is typically required. Outstanding customer service, communication, and community engagement abilities help librarians connect with diverse patrons and respond to their needs. These skills ensure effective information access, resource management, and meaningful community impact within public libraries.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in public libraries, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in public libraries often navigate challenges such as balancing diverse patron needs, adapting to evolving technology, and managing limited resources. They may encounter patrons with varying levels of digital literacy or requests for community programming that stretch beyond traditional library services. To manage these challenges, library staff frequently participate in ongoing training, collaborate with colleagues and community organizations, and prioritize open communication with patrons to ensure accessible and inclusive services. Adaptability and strong problem-solving skills are essential in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Public Libraries vs Librarians?

AspectPublic LibrariesLibrarians
CredentialsVaries; often a master's degree in library science (MLS) or equivalentTypically require an MLS or MLIS degree
Work EnvironmentPublic spaces serving communities, including libraries, community centersLibraries, educational institutions, archives, or information centers
Employer & IndustryPublic sector, government-funded institutionsPublic, academic, or special libraries; education and information sectors
Common Search & ComparisonPublic Libraries vs Librarians

Public libraries are community-focused institutions providing access to books, resources, and programs, often operated by government agencies. Librarians are professionals working within these libraries or similar settings, holding specialized degrees and managing collections, assisting patrons, and organizing information. While public libraries are the venues, librarians are the skilled staff who run them. Understanding this distinction helps clarify roles and expectations in the library industry.

How to get a job as a public librarian?

To become a public librarian, candidates typically need a master's degree in library science or information studies from an American Library Association-accredited program. Relevant skills include cataloging, reference services, and familiarity with library management systems; certification or state licensure may also be required depending on the location. Gaining experience through internships or volunteer work can improve job prospects in public libraries.

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

To work at a public library, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions, such as librarian roles, require a master's degree in library science. Relevant skills include customer service, computer literacy, and knowledge of library management systems; certifications may be required for specialized roles.

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Public Libraries jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Public Libraries job openings:

Public Libraries jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Libraries job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,920 per year, or $55.2 per hour.

Reference Librarian, Davies

Arapahoe Libraries

Deer Trail, CO • On-site

$55K - $69K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Reference Librarian, Davies Library
Empower Rural Communities and Programs Through Service and Support
Are you a community-focused librarian who enjoys connecting people with ideas, resources, and one another? Do you love working with all ages and creating welcoming spaces that reflect and serve the local community?
Arapahoe Libraries is hiring a Reference Librarian to support the Davies branch. In this role, you will help ensure our services are responsive, inclusive, and rooted in connection.
This is a people-centered position that focuses on relationships, service, teamwork, and creating meaningful experiences in our libraries.
About the Role
This position supports the Davies Library in Deer Trail and is collocated with the Deer Trail School district. Davies Library is a small footprint with a huge impact. With a robust after-school crowd, this position will facilitate youth and intergenerational programming and services, as well as build relationships, programming, and services with adult and older adult patrons. Davies Library serves as a vital hub for surrounding rural communities, acting as both the Deer Trail School District school library and a public library. You will collaborate with staff, volunteers, and local partners as a public librarian to deliver programs and services that reflect the community's needs. You will also help keep daily operations running smoothly, mentor staff, and step in as Person in Charge (PIC) when needed.
Key Responsibilities
Programming, Outreach, and Volunteer Support
  • Plan and lead programs that bring people together and reflect the interests of your community
  • Support evening and weekend events and help connect our library with schools and partner organizations
  • Work with staff to build strong relationships with teachers and school leaders
  • Help coordinate and support teen volunteers

Patron Services
  • Welcome visitors and offer helpful, friendly support at service desks and on the floor
  • Assist patrons with technology, research, and selecting materials
  • Pitch in on district-wide initiatives like Summer Reading and help your team deliver excellent day-to-day service
  • Easily transition between supporting the school library and leading the public library

Team Support and Mentoring
  • Serve as a steady presence at the branch by opening and closing the library and helping with scheduling and coverage
  • Offer guidance and support to your coworkers by sharing your knowledge and encouraging professional growth
  • Help create a positive team environment by modeling great service and supporting one another

Professional Development
  • Stay curious and connected by learning about new tools, trends, and ideas in the library world
  • Share what you learn with your team to help us all grow and improve

What You Will Bring
A Heart for Service: You enjoy working with people and making a difference in your community.
Flexibility and Professional Judgment: You adapt easily when plans change, respond calmly to unexpected situations, and continue delivering thoughtful, reliable service in a dynamic environment.
Respectful Service to All: You provide welcoming, unbiased service to people from all backgrounds and perspectives, supporting intellectual freedom and equitable access to information for everyone.
Tech Confidence: You are comfortable using and teaching everyday technology and open to learning new tools.
Curiosity and Care: You take initiative, stay organized, and are thoughtful about meeting the needs of others.
Connection to ALD Core Values: You believe in collaboration, equity, and innovation as part of your daily work.
Qualifications
Required:
  • Master's degree in library and information science, or at least two years of library-related experience and a plan to earn your MLIS within three years (application required within six months of hire)
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Experience providing great customer service and working with a variety of people and tasks
  • Intermediate skills using Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, Outlook), familiarity with Microsoft Teams, and a willingness to learn and apply new technologies
  • Ability to work independently, manage time well, and support teams across the Arapahoe Library District

Preferred:
  • Experience offering reference, technology, or advisory services in a library setting
  • Spanish language skills

Who We Are
At Arapahoe Libraries, we are a welcoming, forward-thinking organization that believes in the power of curiosity and connection. Our values of collaboration, equity, and innovation shape everything we do. We believe libraries should reflect and uplift the people they serve, and we are always learning together. "Let's Find Out" is more than our motto. It is how we approach our work every day.
Let's Find Out Together
If you care about helping people, building strong relationships, and being part of a supportive and creative team, we would love to meet you. Join us in serving the Deer Trail and surrounding communities, where your work will make a real difference every single day. Apply today! **Please provide a cover letter with your application**
Inclusion and diversity are part of our values at Arapahoe Libraries.
Qualified applicants who can support the communities we serve are encouraged to apply.
ARAPAHOE LIBRARIES logo

About ARAPAHOE LIBRARIES

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Arapahoe Libraries was established in April 1966 to provide public library service to all residents of Arapahoe County, except those living in the cities of Littleton, Englewood and Aurora. Residents of these cities are served by libraries established prior to 1966 that are funded and maintained by their respective city governments. All Arapahoe County residents, however, are free to use any of the libraries in the county. Residents can also participate in the Colorado Library Card Program, which allows them to borrow items from any participating academic, school and public library in Colorado. Arapahoe Libraries serves a diverse and varied population covering the rural areas of Byers and Deer Trail, the cities of Bow Mar, Centennial, Cherry Hills Village, Columbine, Glendale, Greenwood Village and Sheridan, and the unincorporated areas of Arapahoe County. Arapahoe Libraries is also a major resource for elementary and high school students of the Littleton, Cherry Creek, Sheridan, Byers and Deer Trail School Districts, as well as for those receiving private and home schooling, and students attending local colleges and universities. This map of the Arapahoe Libraries legal service area provides exact boundaries. Funding is provided through a 4.9 property tax mill levy. Any increase in the mill levy must be approved by a vote of the people. Other revenue sources include income from specific ownership tax, grants and interest on investments. A non-profit Arapahoe Library Friends Foundation was established in 1990 to raise additional money from the private sector and to serve as an advocacy group for Arapahoe Libraries. The Foundation and its partner, The Friends of Arapahoe Libraries, which was established in 1995, support a variety of library programs and services.

Industry

Libraries and archives

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Englewood, CO, US

Year founded

1966

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