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Public Library Director Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

GovernmentJobs.com

Library Assistant I

North Liberty, IA · On-site

$15.78 - $16.25/hr

Job Title Library Assistant Under the direction of the Assistant Library Director, the primary ... the public. Must be functionally literate in written and spoken English and be able to follow ...

New

City of Norwalk, IA

Circulation Assistant

Norwalk, IA · On-site

$17.40/hr

Norwalk Easter Public Library, IA Job Type: Variable-Hour Part-Time Job Number: 00193 Department ... Under the direct supervision of the Circulation Supervisor, the Circulation Assistant provides ...

State of Iowa

Circulation Assistant

Norwalk, IA · On-site

$17.40/hr

Norwalk Easter Public Library, IA Job Type: Variable-Hour Part-Time Job Number: 00193 Department ... Under the direct supervision of the Circulation Supervisor, the Circulation Assistant provides ...

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All JobsPublic Library JobsPublic Library Director JobsPublic Library Director Jobs in Iowa

Public Library Director information

See Iowa salary details

$37.1K

$93.2K

$164.4K

How much do public library director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for public library director in Iowa is $93,218.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,200.00 and $119,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 qualifications do you need to be a public library director?

A public library director typically needs a master's degree in library science or information science from an ALA-accredited program. Relevant experience in library management, strong leadership skills, and knowledge of library operations and community engagement are also important qualifications.

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.

How much does a public library director make?

The average salary for a public library director in Ohio is approximately $70,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on the size of the library and experience level. Salaries can vary based on location, budget, and additional responsibilities such as staff management and community outreach.

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 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Public Library jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Public Library jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Public Library Director jobs in Iowa? For Public Library Director jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Public Library Director jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Public Library Director jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Public Library Director jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Public Library Director job openings:
Public Library Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Library Director job openings in Iowa 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 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,218 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

Public Library Assistant (part-time)

Cornell College

Mount Vernon, IA • Hybrid

$16.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Cornell College is hiring a part-time Public Library Assistant to support the operations of the first-floor circulation desk. This role plays a key part in delivering excellent service to our patrons and assisting with library programs and services.

Schedule:
Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
We are open to hiring either one individual to work daily or two individuals to share the schedule (2–3 days per week each).

Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide front-line support at the first-floor circulation desk.
  • Collaborate closely with the Public Library Director and Circulation Supervisor to ensure smooth daily operations and a welcoming environment for all visitors.

About Cole Public Library

Cole Public Library is half of a unique collaboration with the Cornell College Library. Together, the public and academic libraries make up the Russell D. Cole Library. In service to the Mount Vernon Community, it is the mission of the Cole Public Library to foster and support citizens’ exploration of ideas, use of information, and opportunities for reading, viewing, and listening.

About Cornell College

Cornell College is a selective liberal arts college distinguished by our Ingenuity curriculum that builds on the strengths of our One Course At A Time schedule. This combination encourages the qualities of being thoughtful, original, and inventive, using the strengths of a liberal arts education to apply ideas to solve problems and meet challenges through hands-on experience in learning. Academic immersion, Division III NCAA athletic teams, and unparalleled flexibility attract an ambitious student body from across the U.S. and worldwide. We are located in Mount Vernon, Iowa, an urban fringe community located in the heart of the ICR Iowa region.

Education, Experience, and Certification
High School diploma required. Library experience preferred.

Preferred Skills
Excellent communication skills. Basic knowledge of general library procedures and customer service.

Physical Working Conditions
The work is varied, with some sitting, some standing, some lifting, and some walking around. Employees will be required to perform other job-related duties as assigned. All requirements are subject to change over time, with possible modifications made to reasonably accommodate individuals with a disability.  The hiring pay rate for the position is $16.50 per hour.

Application Process

To apply, submit a resume and list of at least three professional references through Cornell College's online application system.

Cornell is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from underrepresented groups. Cornell complies with Iowa's Smoke-Free Air Act. Cornell utilizes E-Verify and requires satisfactory completion of a background check.

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