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Public Libraries Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Anderson County

Library Assistant I

Briceville, TN

$10.60/hr

The Briceville Public Library seeks an energetic, motivated individual who is interested in joining its team. Primary responsibilities include providing prompt and friendly service to the public at ...

Memphis Staffing

Library_Customer Svc Asst

Memphis, TN · On-site

$42K - $63K/yr

... provide public information services at the general reference desk in the areas of children, teen ... Works at various library agencies to assist with the collection and development of library ...

Anderson County Government

Library Assistant I

TN · On-site

$10.60/hr

The Briceville Public Library seeks an energetic, motivated individual who is interested in joining its team. Primary responsibilities include providing prompt and friendly service to the public at ...

City of Memphis, TN

Library_Customer Svc Asst

Memphis, TN · On-site

$42K - $63K/yr

... provide public information services at the general reference desk in the areas of children, teen ... Works at various library agencies to assist with the collection and development of library ...

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All JobsPublic Libraries JobsPublic Libraries Jobs in Tennessee

Public Libraries information

See Tennessee salary details

$35.9K

$99.2K

$150.2K

How much do public libraries jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for public libraries in Tennessee is $99,193.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,700.00 and $120,300.00 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 Tennessee are hiring for Public Libraries jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Public Libraries job openings:

Public Libraries jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Libraries job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,193 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

REFERENCE SERVICES MANAGER - JOHN P. HOLT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY

GovernmentJobs.com

Brentwood, TN • On-site

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Reference Services Manager

The City of Brentwood seeks an experienced, service-minded library professional to join its team as Reference Services Manager for the John P. Holt Brentwood Library.

This is a key leadership role for someone who enjoys supervising staff, overseeing collections and services, supporting library programming, and helping shape the future of a public library. The Reference Services Manager plays an important role in daily operations while also contributing to strategic planning, community engagement, and high-quality public service.

The John P. Holt Brentwood Library provides access to over 165,000 books and other materials, including audiobooks, DVDs, music CDs, databases, and online resources. With a mission of being a vibrant and engaging community center for lifelong learning and the arts, the Library continues to be an important resource for the Brentwood community. Situated in a beautiful park setting and bordered by a walking trail and arboretum, the Library is widely known as one of the crown jewels of the City of Brentwood.

This position requires regular evening and weekend work based on library operations, programming, and staffing needs.

Duties and responsibilities include managing, supervising, scheduling, and supporting Reference Department staff and daily operations; serving as the person in charge of the library as needed, including regular evening and weekend responsibilities; overseeing adult and teen collections, databases, online resources, interlibrary loan, and related reference tools; monitoring department budgets, usage statistics, and reports to support purchasing decisions, planning, and operations; helping develop and coordinate programs, outreach, and services for adults, teens, families, schools, and community groups; and providing high-quality public service by assisting patrons, supporting daily operations, and helping uphold library policies and procedures.

The ideal candidate has demonstrated success leading library staff, managing priorities, and supporting high-quality public service; brings strong organizational and supervisory skills, with the ability to balance daily operations and long-term goals; communicates clearly and collaboratively with staff, patrons, and community partners; has experience with collections, databases, programming, and budget oversight in a public library setting; is adaptable, approachable, and professional, with the ability to remain calm under pressure and handle issues that arise in a busy public-facing environment; and values lifelong learning and understands the library's role in enriching and connecting the community.

Minimum training and experience required include a master's degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited program, along with 3 to 5 years of management experience in a library setting and familiarity with technical services in a public library. Demonstrated problem-solving ability with desktop computers and experience managing a library software system required. Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for the position may be considered.

The City of Brentwood is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City may provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

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