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Public Library Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Claremont

Library Director

Claremont, NH · On-site

$63.01 - $101.48/hr

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 ...

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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 ...

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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 ...

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 ... Keeps the Library Director informed on personnel issues as they affect the operations of the ...

Bradbury Miller Associates

Library Director

Medford, OR · On-site

$150 - $180/hr

The Library Director will bring a strong commitment to public service, sound fiscal leadership, and the ability to inspire staff, strengthen community relationships, and advance forward-thinking ...

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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 Aug 20, 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?

The top employers for Public Library Director jobs are:

What states have the most Public Library Director jobs?

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

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

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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 - Jackson County Library District (OR)

Kansas Library Association

Medford, OR • On-site

$150 - $180/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Library Director – Jackson County Library District (OR)

Salary: $150,000.00 - $180,000.00 Annually

Application Deadline: Sep 6, 2026

Public Library

Library Director – Jackson County Library District (OR)

The Jackson County Library District (OR) seeks a professional, proactive, and community-centered leader to serve as its next Library Director. The Library Director will bring a strong commitment to public service, sound fiscal leadership, and the ability to inspire staff, strengthen community relationships, and advance forward-thinking strategic priorities for one of Oregon’s vibrant public library systems. Jackson County Library District operating as Jackson County Library Services (JCLS), serves more than 220,000 residents through a network of 15 unique community libraries, including an 84,000-square-foot Main Library. The library employs 133 FTE and operates with a $17 million budget. JCLS offers a diverse collection of physical and digital resources for children, teens, and adults, along with outreach services that extend the library’s reach throughout the county, including book talks for elementary and middle school students, homebound delivery services, and partnerships with local childcare centers.

Reporting to a five-member Board of Trustees, the Library Director will provide strategic, administrative, and operational leadership for the district. The ideal candidate will be a collaborative and relationship-focused leader who builds trust with staff, community members, partners, and stakeholders; communicates a clear and compelling vision for library service; listens actively to diverse perspectives; and balances strategic leadership with effective day-to-day management. This leader will guide the development and implementation of the district’s five-year strategic plan while serving as a visible ambassador for JCLS throughout Jackson County and the broader library community.

Located midway between Portland and San Francisco, Jackson County, Oregon enjoys more than 200 days of sunshine each year. Nature enthusiasts enjoy the region’s diverse landscapes such as rafting the Rogue River, hiking the iconic Table Rocks, or exploring Crater Lake National Park. The area offers scenic valleys, mountain lakes, award-winning wineries, and convenient access to the Redwoods and the Oregon coast. The region's vibrant arts and cultural scene features the Craterian Theater at The Collier Center, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and the Britt Festival, the Pacific Northwest's premier outdoor summer performing arts festival. The area's warm, sunny summers and mild winter support a thriving agricultural system, making it a prime destination for world-class wine tasting and artisan food.

Responsibilities: Responsibilities include developing the district's vision, goals, and strategic objectives in partnership with the Board of Trustees; establishing operational priorities aligned with those goals and applicable legislative requirements; administering district policies, recommending policy updates, and providing executive support to the board; cultivating strong relationships throughout the community and with state and national organizations; and collaborating with the Jackson County Library Foundation and Friends of the Library to strengthen fundraising and volunteer engagement. The Library Director will also prepare and oversee the district's annual budget, remain current with emerging library trends and technologies, and ensure that library collections, facilities, and services continue to meet the evolving needs of Jackson County residents. For a full list of responsibilities, see the links in the job posting on the Bradbury Miller Associate website (https://bradburymiller.com/open-positions/).

Qualifications: The minimum qualifications for this role include a Masters of Library Science from an ALA-accredited institution and seven years of supervisory and leadership experience in a public library.

Compensation: The hiring salary range is $150,000 – $180,000, with placement dependent on experience and qualifications, plus an excellent benefits package.

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