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Public Library Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Library Director

Seminole, FL · On-site

$79K - $119K/yr

The Director provides general oversight and responsibility for all Library operations with emphasis ... Promotes good public relations by: working with the Library Advisory Board to receive regular ...

... Public Library (JCPL) policies, guidelines, and procedures. Work is performed under the general direction of the Library Director. Grade 22 Duties and Responsibilities * Supervises, develops, and ...

Library Director

Seminole, FL · On-site

$79K - $119K/yr

The Director provides general oversight and responsibility for all Library operations with emphasis ... Promotes good public relations by: working with the Library Advisory Board to receive regular ...

... Public Library (JCPL) policies, guidelines, and procedures. Work is performed under the general direction of the Library Director. Grade 22 Duties and Responsibilities Supervises, develops, and ...

The Library Director manages the day-to-day operations of the library, including collections, programs, budgets, and staff, serving as the primary public representative for the library. The Director ...

The Library Director manages the day-to-day operations of the library, including collections, programs, budgets, and staff, serving as the primary public representative for the library. The Director ...

Library Director

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$140 - $190/hr

... libraries are essential. The next director will model Redwood City's values of Excellence ... Experience with change management in a public-facing environment and a practical approach to ...

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Public Library Director information

See salary details

$39.5K

$99.2K

$175K

How much do public library director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for public library director in the United States is $99,246.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,500.00 and $127,000.00 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 cities are hiring for Public Library Director jobs?

Cities with the most Public Library Director job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Library jobs?

The most popular types of Public Library jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Public Library Director jobs?

The top employers for Public Library Director jobs are:

What states have the most Public Library Director jobs?

States with the most job openings for Public Library Director jobs include:

Infographic showing various Public Library Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,246 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

$80 - $90/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Salary: $80,000.00 - $90,000.00 Annually

Application Deadline: Aug 31, 2026

Public

GENEVA PUBLIC LIBRARY

Library Director II

Salary: $80,000 to $90,000

Full-Time: 35 hours/week

About Geneva Public Library

Chartered in 1905, the Geneva Public Library has served the Geneva, New York community for over a century from its historic building at 244 Main Street. Since 2006, the Library has operated as a school district public library serving all residents of the Geneva City School District, and it serves as the Central Library of the OWWL Library System. Situated at the north end of Seneca Lake in the heart of the Finger Lakes, the Library welcomes more than 100,000 visitors annually and offers adult and youth programming, summer reading initiatives, technology assistance, genealogy and local history resources, a seed library, and meeting room space for the community. The Library’s mission is to inspire and support a lifetime of learning and creativity for the Geneva community.

Distinguishing Features of the Position

The position includes supervision of professional and clerical staff, as well as time spent in professional library service activities. Work involves carrying out broad policy as determined by the Library Board of Trustees.

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Develops the library budget and supervises the expenditure of library funds and the collection of library revenues, and may administer grants
  • Establishes and maintains procedures and effective controls to keep revenues and expenditures on budget
  • Develops and evaluates plans for library services, evaluating the effectiveness of the Library’s services and programs in relation to the changing needs of the community
  • Keeps abreast of best practices in library programs and services
  • Attends OWWL Library System and Director Advisory Committee meetings and other local, state, and national conferences as appropriate
  • Reviews and develops policies and procedures for the operation of the Library within the policies and guidelines set by the Board of Trustees, and works with the Board of Trustees and library staff on those policies
  • Supervises the work and training of library personnel, and leads staff training
  • Administers personnel policies; recommends appointments, transfers, promotions, dismissal, and staffing patterns of personnel
  • Works with the Geneva Central School District on budget votes and trustee elections
  • Develops and implements an effective system of supervision for all staff, and reviews staff performance
  • Keeps informed of professional developments through attendance at and participation in professional organizations, system meetings, workshops, continuing education courses, and professional reading
  • Represents the Library before governmental agencies and community groups in seeking financial resources for the Library, including public and private fundraising opportunities and grants
  • Remains up to date on community needs and desires regarding library services and programs
  • Supervises the maintenance of library property and recommends repairs, alterations, and new construction
  • Administers the purchase and selection of library materials
  • Compiles and submits all local and state reports
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Thorough knowledge of:

  • Library administration practices, modern library organization, procedures, policies, aims, and services
  • The application of computer technology to library operations
  • Modern principles and practices of library science
  • Library materials and collection development issues

Ability to:

  • Carry out library policies and procedures
  • Train and supervise library staff
  • Plan and coordinate the work of others
  • Exercise leadership and motivate others
  • Read and comprehend library research
  • Interpret and respond to users' needs quickly and accurately, and prescribe information or materials accordingly
  • Establish effective working relationships with community organizations
  • Express ideas clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing, to groups and individuals
Minimum Qualifications

A Master’s Degree in Librarianship from a library school accredited by the American Library Association, or recognized by the New York State Education Department as following acceptable education practices; and three years of professional library experience, one year of which must be supervisory or administrative.

Special Requirement

Eligibility for a New York State Public Librarian’s Professional Certificate at the time of application. Possession of the certificate at the time of appointment.

All library staff are expected to be reliable, punctual, and efficient; to handle situations with the public and each other with tact and courtesy; to understand and apply library policies; to generally supervise the use of the Library by the public and staff to protect library property and ensure public safety; and to comply with the Library’s Code of Conduct. Schedule includes some evenings and Saturdays.

Applications are due by August 31, 2026.

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