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Public Library Director Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Library Assistant I

Sevierville, TN · On-site

$33K - $37K/yr

... daily operations and public services of the library across multiple locations. Primary ... Job performance for this position will be evaluated by the Director of Library Services based on ...

Fast paced public library. * Self-starter with ability to work in a self-directed environment with minimal guidance. Physical Demands: * Ability to move from place to place within the location; lift ...

Library Adult Svcs Coord

Memphis, TN · On-site

$60K - $92K/yr

Salary Range: $60,029.58 - $92,456.00 Works under the direction of the Deputy Director to develop ... Works with Public Services Managers and other members of the library administration on special ...

Security Guard 2

Nashville, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Security Guard 2 The Security Guard 2 patrols and monitors Nashville Public Library facilities and ... directed to Human Resources at 615-862-6640.

Director, Libraries

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$72K - $91K/yr

Actively engage with library deans and directors across the state, particularly those who lead TBR ... The work environment presents minimal risk of injury or illness; however, as a public-facing ...

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Public Library Director information

See Tennessee salary details

$35.9K

$90.1K

$158.8K

How much do public library director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for public library director in Tennessee is $90,077.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,900.00 and $115,300.00 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 Tennessee? The most popular types of Public Library jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Public Library Director jobs in Tennessee? For Public Library Director jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Public Library Director jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Public Library Director jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Public Library Director jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Public Library Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Public Library Director job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,077 per year, or $43.3 per hour.

Assistant Cataloger

Sevier, County of (TN)

Sevierville, TN • On-site

$36K - $40K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Position Summary This is responsible cataloging and administrative support work providing assistance with the daily operations of the public library system for Sevier County. Activities associated with the job include assisting with cataloging of all books and other materials, assisting with the technical processing of purchased and donated books and maintaining records of all books and materials entered and/or discarded from the library collection. The incumbent also assists with the interlibrary loan program, gathers cataloging statistical information and assists with compiling monthly, quarterly and annual reports pertaining to all cataloged items.

Job responsibilities require considerable experience working for a public library preferably with cataloging materials, familiarity with a wide variety of literature and cataloging resources, strong organizational, interpersonal and decision-making skills, ability to deal with detailed program related records and strong computer skills. Job performance is evaluated by the Library Director through review of the overall organization and operation of the cataloging department, level of support provided for library operations, ability to accurately handle detailed information and ability to interact effectively with co-workers and library patrons. Job related duties are also subject to annual audits.

Essential Duties -Assists with managing and assuming responsibility for the cataloging department. -Assists with cataloging all materials received by the library system for inclusion in the library system collection including all purchased and donated items. -Maintains records of all purchased and donated items and processes all items discarded and/or deleted from the library collection.

-Assists with the coordination of the interlibrary loan program including responding to requests from library patrons. -Assists with gathering and compiling statistical information pertaining to the cataloging department and preparing and submitting monthly, quarterly and annual reports of all cataloging operations. -Remains current on contemporary literary offerings and trends and assists with special collections as needed.

-Assists with making decisions pertaining to the retention and/or discarding of donated books and other materials. -Answers incoming calls and provides information to the caller and/or refers to the appropriate personnel. -Assists with maintaining an accurate inventory of all library books, audio books, cd's, equipment and supplies.

-Performs related duties as required. Position Qualifications Graduation from an accredited four year high school (A.A. Degree preferred) supplemented with additional training in library science or closely related field; a minimum of two years' experience working for a public library preferably in cataloging books and other materials; good organizational, interpersonal and decision making skills; considerable experience compiling statistical information and preparing detailed reports; or any equivalent combination of education and/or experience to provide the following knowledge, abilities and skills: -Considerable knowledge of contemporary cataloging practices utilized by public libraries including commonly utilized software applications

-Considerable knowledge of the Library of Congress cataloging system, WorldCat and other cataloging resources. -Considerable knowledge of the Dewey Decimal system utilized for cataloging library materials. -Considerable knowledge of the Library Board Policies and Procedures manual including all revisions, updates and amendments.

-Considerable knowledge of computer hardware and networking interfaces and applications. -Considerable knowledge of contemporary software applications utilized by the library system including Office, Windows and Concourse. -Considerable knowledge of current periodicals available to public library systems including newspapers, reference materials, magazines, journals, etc.

-Considerable knowledge of contemporary trends in literature and public library collections. -Ability to coordinate and maintain a current and comprehensive collection of books, reference resources and periodicals available to public libraries. -Ability to make appropriate and timely decisions within existing policies and procedures.

-Ability to accurately compile statistical information and prepare comprehensive reports regarding cataloging operations. -Ability to remain current on new developments in library operations and apply them effectively on the job. -Ability to prioritize personal time and activities to ensure the timely completion of all job responsibilities, meet established deadlines, etc.

-Ability to interact effectively with library patrons, local and regional officials, co-workers, community organizations and the public. -Skill in the use of computer hardware components and related software applications. Necessary Special Requirement -Possession of a valid Tennessee Drivers' license and the ability to be insured at standard vehicle liability rates.

Supplemental Information This is light to medium requiring moderate static, explosive, dynamic and trunk strength and requiring the exertion of up to 50 pounds of force occasionally and up to 10 pounds of force frequently to move objects Work requires considerable flexibility, mobility and speed of limb movement Work requires moderate effort and stamina Work requires both gross body equilibrium and coordination for balancing, bending, stooping, kneeling and walking Work requires considerable arm/ hand steadiness and manual and finger dexterity Vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word Hearing is required to perceive information in both quiet and noisy environments and determine the direction of sounds Visual acuity is required for the inspection of small defects and/or small parts, use of measuring devices, operation of office equipment, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, color differentiation, and observing general surroundings and activities The worker is subject to inside environmental conditions This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of the activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional duties as assigned. Management reserves the right to change this job description at any time with or without notice according to business needs.