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Public Libraries Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

PARAPROFESSIONAL, LIBRARY

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$22.12 - $26.52/hr

Supports library staff by performing general library tasks and providing routine assistance ... Denver Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of ...

Showing results 21-40

Public Libraries information

See Colorado salary details

$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:

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.

Bibliographic Services Specialist

Poudre Libraries

Fort Collins, CO โ€ข On-site

$47K - $59K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Bibliographic Services Specialist
Application Deadline: 3 September 2026
Department: Collections
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Midtown
Reporting To: Tova Aragon
Compensation: $47,385 - $59,231 / year
Description
Working at the Poudre Libraries is about being part of a dynamic organization that is transforming the community and having fun along the way. You'll be instrumental in helping our library customers connect to the ideas, information, and resources that spark their curiosity and support lifelong learning. More than 1 million people come through our doors each year and tens of thousands more access important library services online and through our outreach efforts, making the Library District - and its staff - an indispensable public resource. Come check us out!
SELECTION PROCESS: All applicants must apply online and submit a cover letter and resume.
Applicants will receive an email acknowledgment when the application has been successfully submitted. Completed applications will be forwarded to the hiring manager. Applicants who are selected for further testing or interviews will be contacted by someone on the hiring team to schedule. Please keep your contact information up-to-date. NO PHONE CALLS, PLEASE.
Post-offer background check & MVR required.
Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they can perform every job description task. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may come from a less traditional background. The library may consider an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.
JOB TITLE: Bibliographic Services Specialist
REPORTS TO: Collections Manager
DEPARTMENT: Collections
LOCATION: Midtown Processing Center
FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt
JOB CLASSIFICATION: Classified, Full-Time
BENEFITS: Classified Benefits Summary
HIRING RANGE: $47,385 - $59,231 annually
JOB SUMMARY
As the Bibliographic Services Specialist, you will provide assistance to library customers and staff in a variety of ways using technical skills and knowledge of cataloging and acquisition procedures and standards.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES + RESPONSIBILITIES
Including the following:
  • Creates a welcoming environment for all customers and staff that fosters equity, diversity, and inclusion by seeking to understand, respect, and value individual differences.
  • Demonstrates tactful and conscientious service to people of all ages, races, abilities, cultures, and genders.
  • Performs copy cataloging using library online catalog and external bibliographic databases.
  • Performs limited original cataloging.
  • Participates in bibliographic correction and library database maintenance.
  • Acquire library materials using library software and vendor databases.
  • Process physical materials for circulation.
  • Directs the work of hourly staff and volunteers.
  • Helps to maintain safety, security and healthy environments in the library. Responds to facility hazards and emergencies according to protocols.
  • Stays current on Poudre Libraries policies, processes, procedures, events, and technologies required to perform work duties. Participates in training and continuing education as needed.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS + ABILITIES
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
  • Must possess excellent customer service experience and skills, including deescalating difficult patrons and navigating occasional volatile situations.
  • Must possess excellent communication skills; ability to communicate effectively and appropriately with a diverse population, co-workers, and supervisor.
  • Ability to understand and interpret bibliographic and cataloging tools.
  • Knowledge of library services and materials.
  • Knowledge of national and local standards for analysis and description of bibliographic information in machine readable coding.
  • Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office software.
  • Self-motivated and the ability to work independently.

EDUCATION + EXPERIENCE
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university is desirable.
  • Minimum of one year of experience working in a library is required.
  • Experience in cataloging and/or working with bibliographic records in desirable.

CERTIFICATES + LICENSES
None
LANGUAGE ABILITIES
  • Ability to read, speak, and communicate in English fluently is required.
  • Ability to read, speak, and communicate in Spanish fluently is desirable.
  • Reading comprehension ability in other languages is desirable.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
This job has no supervisory responsibilities.
WORK ENVIRONMENT + PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed and/or required to:
  • Work primarily in a public library environment and sometimes in community settings.
  • The demands on the visual sense are very high.
  • Regularly sit, stand, walk, use hands to handle or feel, lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, talk and hear.
  • Regularly reach, lift and move arms above shoulder level.
  • Occasionally push moveable carts weighing up to 150 pounds.
  • Occasionally lift and/or move materials weighing up to 30 pounds.
  • Occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, climb, or balance.
  • Concentrate on and complete tasks in the presence of distractions.
  • Regularly operate a variety of standard office equipment including a computer, laptop and/or tablet PC, telephone, e-reader, calculator, point of sale system, bar code reader, copy and fax machines.
  • Continuous and repetitive arm, hand, and eye movement.
  • Moderate to loud noise levels.
  • Travel to/from meetings and various locations.
  • Work shifts vary and occur during all library operating hours.

Important Information
Poudre Libraries will make reasonable accommodations for access to Library District services, programs and activities and will make special communication arrangements for persons with disabilities. Please call (970) 221-6740 for assistance.
Poudre Libraries is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants are considered for positions for which they have applied without regard to gender (regardless of gender identity or gender expression), race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, age 40 years or older, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy or other characteristics protected by law. For the purpose of this Library District policy "sexual orientation" means a person's actual or perceived orientation toward heterosexuality, homosexuality, and bisexuality.
Note: Some information in your application may be public information under the Colorado Open Records Act.
Benefits
This position is eligible for Classified benefits