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Public Library Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Manchester

LIBRARY DIRECTOR - LIBRARY

Manchester, NH · On-site

$116.31 - $165.82/hr

Supervision is exercised over the work of all employees within the Public Library, in coordination with a management team involving the Deputy Library Director and employees in the classification of ...

GovernmentJobs.com

Library Consultant

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

This position is responsible for overseeing Louisiana's public library participation in the Public Library Survey (PLS). This includes coordinating with the Institute of Museum and Library Services ...

State of Louisiana

Library Consultant

Baton Rouge, LA

$4.3K - $8.6K/mo

This position is responsible for overseeing Louisiana's public library participation in the Public Library Survey (PLS). This includes coordinating with the Institute of Museum and Library Services ...

State of Louisiana

Library Consultant

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$4.3K - $8.6K/mo

This position is responsible for overseeing Louisiana's public library participation in the Public Library Survey (PLS). This includes coordinating with the Institute of Museum and Library Services ...

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$30.5K

$64.2K

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How much do public library jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for public library 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 a public library?

A public library is a community-based institution that provides free access to books, digital resources, and various educational and cultural programs for people of all ages. Funded primarily by public money, these libraries offer lending services, internet access, research assistance, and spaces for study and community events. Public libraries aim to support literacy, lifelong learning, and equal access to information for everyone, regardless of background or income.

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 and information science (MLIS), knowledge of cataloging, and strong information literacy skills. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital databases, and electronic resource management is typically required. Exceptional customer service, communication, and community engagement skills help librarians connect with diverse patrons and foster a welcoming environment. These competencies ensure effective resource management, information access, and impactful support for community learning and enrichment.

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

Public library staff often encounter challenges such as managing diverse patron needs, addressing technology-related questions, and handling periods of high visitor volume. To address these, staff receive ongoing training in customer service, digital literacy, and conflict resolution. Collaborative teamwork is essential, with librarians and support staff frequently communicating to ensure smooth daily operations and equitable service for all visitors. Many libraries also implement clear policies and utilize flexible scheduling to help staff manage workloads effectively.

What is the difference between Public Library vs Librarian?

AspectPublic LibraryLibrarian
CredentialsVaries; often requires a master's degree in library science (MLS)Typically requires an MLS or equivalent degree
Work EnvironmentPublic spaces serving community members, including children, adults, and seniorsLibraries, educational institutions, or archives; involves organizing and managing collections
Employer & IndustryPublic libraries, government agenciesLibraries, educational institutions, archives
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding what a public library offersRoles and responsibilities of a librarian

Public libraries are community-focused institutions providing access to books, resources, and programs. Librarians are professionals who manage library collections, assist patrons, and organize information. While public libraries are the setting, librarians are the key personnel working within these institutions. Both roles often require similar qualifications, but the library itself is a service point, whereas librarians are the staff delivering those services.

More about Public Library jobs

What cities are hiring for Public Library jobs?

Cities with the most Public Library job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Library jobs?

The most popular types of Public Library jobs are:

What states have the most Public Library jobs?

States with the most job openings for Public Library jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Public Library jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Library jobs are:

Public Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Library job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,190 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

Part-Time Bilingual Library Associate - Public Library

LIBRARY-WEST WYANDOTTE

Kansas City, KS • On-site

Other

PTO

This job post has expired 7 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Title: Bilingual (English/Spanish) Library Associate

Kansas City, Kansas Public Library (KCKPL) serves Wyandotte County, a community in Northeastern Kansas with a population of around 170,000, with five library branches and three mobile libraries. KCKPL was formed in 1893 and came under the authority of the Kansas City, Kansas Public School District Board of Education in 1899, where it remains today. The mission of Kansas City, Kansas Public Library is to connect members of a dynamic community with information, tools, resources, and welcoming spaces to enrich lives in Wyandotte County.

The Bilingual (English/Spanish) Library Associate provides excellent customer service at all public service points and assists in daily library operations, with a specific focus on supporting Spanish-speaking patrons. This position plays a key role in delivering programs, promoting services, and ensuring inclusive and accessible experiences for diverse community members.

Schedule: Monday 3:00pm-9:00pm, Tuesday 5:00pm-9:00pm, Wednesday 3:00pm-9:00pm, & Thursday 5:00pm-9:00pm

Essential Functions

  • Perform all duties of the circulation desk, including assisting patrons in person and over the phone in both English and Spanish.
  • Register and orient new patrons to library services, policies, and technology.
  • Maintain patron accounts and records.
  • Shelve materials, weed the collection, and shelf-read to ensure quality and order.
  • Maintain department organization, displays, and visual presentation.
  • Provide basic reader's advisory and information services to patrons in English and Spanish.
  • Plan and conduct basic programs and cultural enrichment activities in-house and at outreach locations.
  • Assist with and lead outreach events within the community, representing the library in both English and Spanish.
  • Create print and online promotional materials for programs and services, ensuring accessibility for English- and Spanish-speaking patrons.
  • Develop displays to highlight materials and meet patron interests.
  • Provide own transportation to outreach locations as needed.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent education/experience mix.
  • Bilingual in English and Spanish with high proficiency in speaking and comprehension.
  • Highly proficient in written English.
  • Customer service experience preferred.
  • Must pass a background check according to library standards.
  • Ability to work evenings and weekends as required.
  • Ability to provide own transportation for offsite or outreach work.

    • Physical Demands: This position requires the ability to stand, kneel, walk, stoop, and lift up to 35 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

    Work Environment: Work is performed in a public library setting, which may include exposure to dust, mildew, fluorescent lighting, and variable noise levels. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

    Benefits: Vacation, disability, and personal days granted annually pursuant to KCKPS Board Policies, GARH – Absences, leave and vacation. Salary based on library classification and salary schedule. Placement on the schedule based on qualifications and experience. A willingness to work evenings, weekends and extra duty as needed is a condition of employment.

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