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Public Library Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SOUTHEASTERN NEW YORK LIBRARY

NY · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

The Saugerties Public Library seeks enthusiastic qualified applicants for the position of Library Director. This is a full-time position (35 hours per week) offering a competitive salary, health ...

NEW YORK LIBRARY ASSOCIATION

NY · On-site

$65K/yr

Aug 21, 2026 Public July 27, 2026 Library Director 1 The Rosendale Public Library in Ulster County, New York, is a Special District Public library serving the Town of Rosendale which includes the ...

Black Caucus of the American Library Association

NY · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

The Saugerties Public Library seeks enthusiastic qualified applicants for the position of Library Director. This is a full-time position (35 hours per week) offering a competitive salary, health ...

City of Claremont

Library Director

Claremont, NH · On-site

$63K/yr

Library Director * Salary Range: $63,013.85 - $ 101,480.06 * Benefits: The City of Claremont offers ... Represent the library at Trustee meetings, community meetings, and public forums * Maintain and ...

Nelib

Library Director

Falmouth, MA · On-site

$139K/yr

Sep 14, 2026 Public Library The Falmouth Board of Library Trustees is seeking an experienced and accomplished library professional to serve as Director of the Falmouth Public Library, which includes ...

Jackson County, NC

Assistant Library Director

Sylva, NC · On-site

$47K/yr

Work involves frequent public contact and is accomplished in accordance with Jackson County Public ... Assists the Library Director in the management, supervision, and administration of the libraries ...

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Public Library Director information

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$39.5K

$99.2K

$175K

How much do public library director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for public library director in the United States is $99,246.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,500.00 and $127,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a public library director do?

A Public Library Director oversees the operations and management of a public library or library system. Their responsibilities include developing library policies, managing staff, preparing budgets, and ensuring the library meets the needs of the community. Directors also collaborate with local government, plan programs and services, and advocate for library funding. They play a key leadership role in promoting literacy, access to information, and community engagement through library resources.

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

To thrive as a Public Library Director, you need strong leadership, management, and budgeting skills, typically supported by a master's degree in library science (MLS/MLIS) and several years of library experience. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital resource platforms, and collection management tools is essential. Excellent communication, community engagement, and problem-solving abilities help foster positive relationships with staff, patrons, and local stakeholders. These skills ensure the effective operation, strategic growth, and community relevance of the library.

How does a public library director typically collaborate with local government and community organizations?

A Public Library Director frequently works with local government officials, such as city councils and county boards, to secure funding and advocate for library initiatives. They also partner with community organizations, schools, and nonprofits to develop programs that address local needs and promote literacy and lifelong learning. Building and maintaining these relationships is essential for expanding resources, increasing library visibility, and ensuring the library remains responsive to its community. These collaborations often involve attending meetings, joint event planning, and regular communication to align goals and share resources.

What is the difference between Public Library Director vs Public Librarian?

AspectPublic Library DirectorPublic Librarian
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent, leadership experienceMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent, library certification
Work EnvironmentAdministrative offices, overseeing staff and operationsPublic service desks, assisting patrons, managing collections
Employer & Industry UsagePublic libraries, government agenciesPublic libraries, educational institutions
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on leadership, management, and strategic planningFocuses on daily patron services, collection management

The main difference between a Public Library Director and a Public Librarian lies in their roles. The Director handles administrative leadership, strategic planning, and staff management, requiring advanced degrees and experience. The Librarian primarily provides direct patron services, manages collections, and assists visitors. Both roles require a Master’s in Library Science, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

What cities are hiring for Public Library Director jobs?

Cities with the most Public Library Director job openings:

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

The most popular types of Public Library jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Public Library Director jobs?

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What states have the most Public Library Director jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Public Library Director jobs?

For Public Library Director jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Public Library Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Library Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,246 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

Library Director -- The Saugerties Public Library

NY • On-site

SOUTHEASTERN NEW YORK LIBRARY
See more jobs at SOUTHEASTERN NEW YORK LIBRARYexternal

$70K - $75K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

The Saugerties Public Library seeks enthusiastic qualified applicants for the position of Library Director. This is a full-time position (35 hours per week) offering a competitive salary, health benefits, and enrollment in the New York State Local Retirement System. The Library Director shall be the executive and administrative officer of the library, acting on behalf of the Board and under its review and direction. The Library Director is the official spokesperson for the library.

The Library Director oversees all aspects of library administration and operations including library finances, information systems and technology, buildings and grounds maintenance, human resources, library programs, collection development, public relations, and community outreach.

The Saugerties Public Library is a vibrant community resource serving a population of 19,393 residents in the Town and Village of Saugerties, and is a member of the Mid-Hudson Library System. This is a civil service position and applicants must possess the minimum qualifications for Library Director 1 in order to apply.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Develops the library budget in coordination with the Finance Committee.
  • Prepares, distributes, and compiles all materials for board and committee meetings.
  • Maintains all business, financial, and personnel records for the library including filing all personnel actions with Ulster County Civil Service.
  • Assumes responsibility for the maintenance of computers and the automation system.
  • Applies for and administers grants.
  • Administers the expenditures of library funds and the collection of library revenues.
  • Recommends new services, policies, and personnel actions to the Board of Trustees.
  • Recommends appointments, transfers, promotions and dismissals.
  • Supervises the work of library employees.
  • Conducts staff training meetings.
  • Performs annual performance evaluations on all employees.
  • Administers the purchase of library materials.
  • Prepares state, local, and other statistical narrative reports as needed or required.
  • Oversees collection development.
  • Assumes responsibility of the local history collection.
  • Creates relevant reports through the library systems ILS.
  • Conducts studies and analysis of library operations.
  • Represents the library before governmental agencies and community groups.
  • Ensure that the building and grounds are properly maintained.
  • Supervises the maintenance of library property and recommends repairs, alterations, and new construction.
  • Keeps informed of professional developments through participation in professional organizations, system meetings, workshops, continuing education courses, and reading professional materials.
IDEAL QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Previous experience in library management.
  • High proficiency with library computer technology and electronic resources.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Experience working with volunteers and Friends group and a Board of Trustees.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with a Masters Degree in Library Science and two (2) years of professional full-time, or its part-time equivalent, experience in a library of recognized standing.

Special Requirement:

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 priority.

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