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Public Library Director Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

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Public Library Director information

See Missouri salary details

$37.1K

$93.1K

$164.2K

How much do public library director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for public library director in Missouri is $93,093.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,100.00 and $119,100.00 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 Missouri?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Public Library Director job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,093 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

ATSU - Campus Library Head/Assistant University Library Director

ATSU PUBLIC

Kirksville, MO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description:

A.T. Still University (ATSU) is seeking a full-time, exempt Campus Library Head/Assistant University Library Director on the Kirksville, Missouri campus. This position is responsible for overall management and administration of the Missouri Branch of the A.T. Still Memorial Library. The Campus Library Head/Assistant University Library Director will lead the library’s provision of support services for the KCOM, MOSDOH and CGHS. They will support faculty and students in learning an Evidence-based model of clinical care; provides leadership and supervision of a staff of six, and assist the University Library Director in the planning and administration of the Library. This position reports to the University Library Director.


Duties & Responsibilities

  • Leads the staff in providing a broad range of library services to three schools (DO, dental, and online health sciences) for both residential and online students across two geographical locations in Missouri (Kirksville, MO and St Louis, MO).
  • Serves as the library liaison for one or two colleges located on the Missouri Campus.
  • Provides instructional support in the use of evidence for clinical practice to students, develops library collections, and supports faculty research efforts.
  • Supports the University Library Director in strategic planning, budget development, program direction and coordination, as well as employee recruitment.
  • Oversees the daily operations of a 22,000 sq ft library branch leading a team of six employees to provide excellent customer services to students, faculty, and staff.
  • Leads outreach efforts and engages faculty, staff and students about library services.
  • Participates in library university committees, the regional MOBIUS consortium, national professional organizations, and disseminates best professional practices developed by the library.
  • Prepares and manages the campus library budget.
Requirements:

Education & Experience

  • ALA-accredited MLS or equivalent.
  • Five years experience in an academic or medical library.
  • Supervision experience of one to two years preferred.
  • Advanced skills in searching health sciences literature using biomedical databases such as PubMed and CINAHL.
  • Knowledge and experience with evidence-based medicine practice, research data, and tolls for demonstration research impart.
  • Demonstrated experience in developing, designing, and teaching course-integrated information literacy sessions in academic health sciences or clinical environments.
  • Use of assessment data to inform continuous improvement of instructional practices and materials.
  • Experience with evaluation and assessment of instructional practices and materials.
  • Experience with library outreach and marketing activities.
  • Experience working within a library liaison program.
  • Involvement with systematic reviews or other formal literature reviews.

ATSU offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverages, among more. If eligible, employee-elected benefits would begin the first of the month following hire date. For more information, please visit: atsu.edu/employment/benefits.


A.T. Still University (ATSU) does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in its programs and activities.