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Public Library Director Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Circulation Supervisor

Muskego, WI · On-site

$60K - $78K/yr

The Circulation Supervisor position is a non-exempt, supervisory position and reports directly to the Library Director. The ideal candidate would have excellent public facing skills along with an ...

Circulation Supervisor

Muskego, WI · On-site

$60K - $78K/yr

The Circulation Supervisor position is a non-exempt, supervisory position and reports directly to the Library Director. The ideal candidate would have excellent public facing skills along with an ...

Library Page

Middleton, WI · On-site

$15.38/hr

The role also includes providing general support for public services, library resources, and programming, as well as assisting patrons by directing questions to the appropriate staff. Schedule ...

The role also includes providing general support for public services, library resources, and programming, as well as assisting patrons by directing questions to the appropriate staff. Schedule ...

Bookmobile Driver

WI · On-site

$21.51 - $27.65/hr

Public Library - Racine, Wisconsin Opening Date: 08/13/2026 Closing Date: 8/27/2026 11:59 PM ... Report mechanical problems to Bookmobile Lead Supervisor and Deputy Director. * Handle routine ...

Position Purpose The Racine Public Library has been the community's educational and informational ... Report mechanical problems to Bookmobile Lead Supervisor and Deputy Director. * Handle routine ...

Bookmobile Driver

Racine, WI · On-site

$21.51 - $27.65/hr

The Racine Public Library has been the community's educational and informational institution since ... Report mechanical problems to Bookmobile Lead Supervisor and Deputy Director. Handle routine ...

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Public Library Director information

See Wisconsin salary details

$39.9K

$100.2K

$176.6K

How much do public library director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for public library director in Wisconsin is $100,174.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,200.00 and $128,200.00 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 popular job titles related to Public Library Director jobs in Wisconsin?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Public Library Director job openings in Wisconsin 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 $100,174 per year, or $48.2 per hour.

Library Director - Jackson County Library District (OR)

Oregon, WI • On-site

$150 - $180/hr

Other

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

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 winters 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 Associatewebsite (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.

Location

Library Director – Jackson County Library District (OR), Out Of State

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