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Public Library Director Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

... public announcements of public meetings, arranges for and supervisescontract secretary, attends all Board meetings, reporting to and maintaining records of allBoard meetings and decisions.4. In ...

The City of Loveland is seeking the next leader of the Loveland Public Library working under the Community Placemaking Director. This role collaborates closely within the library, the city and ...

... Public Library * May assist in collection/inventory management duties including weeding, sorting, shelving, cataloging assistance, interlibrary loan, and database input/maintenance when directed by ...

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Public Library Director information

See Colorado salary details

$41.5K

$104.4K

$184K

How much do public library director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for public library director in Colorado is $104,358.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,200.00 and $133,500.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Public Library jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Public Library jobs in Colorado are:

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

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

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

The top searched job categories for Public Library Director jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Public Library Director jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Public Library Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Public Library Director 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 $104,358 per year, or $50.2 per hour.

$60K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Our library may be small-town, but our impact is big city. Job satisfaction is high, the staff is top notch, and you might just be the right fit for leading the staff at the Ignacio Community Library in Southwest Colorado. View the job listing at www.ignaciolibrary.org or use the link: ICLDirectorSearch, scroll down to employment opportunities. Please send your cover letter, application, and resume to directorsearch@ignaciolibrary.orgIGNACIO COMMUNITY LIBRARYLIBRARY DIRECTORJob descriptionJOB TITLE: Library Director POSITION TYPE: Professional REPORTS TO: Library Board of TrusteesEMPLOYMENT STATUS: Exempt, full-time PAY RANGE: $60,000 - $75,000POSITION OVERVIEW: The Library Director performs a variety of duties in the operation of theIgnacio Community Library. This is a full-time position with health benefits and paid leave time aftera probationary period. Occasional evenings and weekends may be required.BACKGROUND: The Ignacio Community Library (ICL) is a center that brings people and ideastogether for learning and personal growth. ICL is located in the town of Ignacio, Colorado, and issurrounded by the Southern Ute Indian Reservation. ICL provides quality materials, services, andprograms that fulfill educational, informational, cultural, and recreational needs of the communitywithout regard to age, sex, race, religion, national origin, handicap, or economic status.SUPERVISION: This position will supervise other employees.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESLibrary Personnel1. Hires and supervises personnel, adhering to job descriptions and the employee manual, andinforms the Board of changes.2. Implements Board-approved policies and procedures, recommending changes as needed.3. Identifies and recommends opportunities for continuing education for library staff.4. Monitors staff performance and compliance with policies.5. Conducts periodic staff evaluations.Facilities and Operations1. Supervises the physical plant of the library to ensure efficiency, safety, and over-allappearance.2. Oversees library plans and committees such as the Technology Plan and Strategic Plan;recommending changes to the Board as needed.3. Arranges for required public announcements of public meetings, arranges for and supervisescontract secretary, attends all Board meetings, reporting to and maintaining records of allBoard meetings and decisions.4. In consultation with the Board President, prepares agenda; compiles minutes, anddocumentation including statistics and financial reports, delivering these items to membersfive (5) days in advance of each meeting.5. Acts as a liaison between the Library Board, employees, town officials, community leaders.6. Maintains membership and communication with professional library associations. Bringsinformation on new ideas and methods to the library planning process.7. Reads and shares professional materials to update and maintain knowledge of library methods.8. Demonstrates a broad experience and knowledge of collection development, weeding,cataloging and programming. Assists in managing and maintaining library collection.9. Offers readers advisory10. Possesses a current knowledge of computer techniques and technology, database managementand spreadsheet software, library automation systems, and internet based resources.11. Provides the Board with copies of current policies, procedures, and resolutions recommendingchanges to the Board as needed.12. Displays the ability to communicate professionally, orally, and in writing.13. Performs other duties as described by the Board.Finances1. Researches and prepares annual library budget in consultation with Board Treasurer.2. Supervises and assists Financial Administrator with record keeping, bill paying includingpayroll, and submits timely reports to the Library Board, State of Colorado, and Auditor.3. Administers and maintains complete records of finance in accordance with the adoptedannual budget.4. Pursues, applies, accepts, and maintains compliance with grants and grant providers.5. Assesses, selects, and purchases equipment, furniture, and supplies for the library withinbudgetary limits and caps as set by the board.Community Outreach1. Develops library outreach within the community.2. Acts as liaison between the Library Board, the Library, and the Friends of the Library.The duties listed above are not meant to be all-inclusive, but are intended to be illustrative of thenature of the work to be performed by a person in this classification. Employees may performother related duties as established to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES1. Strong verbal and written communication skills2. Excellent computer skills3. Ability to exercise tact, discretion, and confidentiality with respect to patron information.4. Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with staff, patrons, Trustees, Friends, vendors, and other parties.5. Analytical Skills: identify challenges and opportunities; review possible alternative courses ofaction; use available information and resources when making decisions.6. Time Management: ability to set priorities in order to meet assignment deadlines.ENVIRONMENTAL/WORKING CONDITIONS:Primarily an indoor, library work environment with occasional outdoor or offsite activities; extensivecontact with the public. Some travel to attend meetings may be necessary.REQUIRED TRAINING AND EXPERIENCEMasters Degree in Library Science or Library & Information Science or pursuit of said degree froman ALA-accredited college or university. At least one year of public library experience is required; acombination of library experience and education is acceptable or any relevant combination ofeducation, experience and training.
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