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Public Library Director information

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$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:

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

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Public Library Director jobs near you
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.

Executive Director - Jefferson County Public Library (CO)

Georgia Public Library Service

Lakewood, CO • On-site

$170 - $195/hr

Other

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Overview

Executive Director – Jefferson County Public Library (CO)

The Jefferson County Public Library Board of Trustees seeks a strategic, collaborative, and community-centered leader to serve as the next Executive Director of Jefferson County Public Library. JCPL is a vibrant public library system serving communities across Jefferson County through welcoming spaces, responsive services, strong collections, technology access, lifelong learning opportunities, and programs that connect residents with ideas, resources, and one another.

In 2025, JCPL welcomed 1,983,456 library visitors, supported nearly 140,000 active cardholders, offered 7,899 programs, completed 749 community outreach visits, and reached total collection use of 10,256,038. The Library continues to expand access through new and redesigned spaces, mobile and delivery services, digital resources, technology support, Spanish-language programming, and partnerships that strengthen community connection throughout Jefferson County.

The ideal candidate will be a visible and effective public library leader with sound judgment, political awareness, strong communication skills, and a deep commitment to public service. They will bring experience leading complex organizations, working effectively with governing boards and public officials, supporting staff through multiple layers of leadership, and fostering a positive, collaborative, accountable, and team-oriented organizational culture.

Jefferson County offers the best of Colorado’s Front Range, with foothill communities, historic downtowns, abundant open space, and easy access to Denver. Residents enjoy more than 58,000 acres of preserved open space and 275 miles of trails, along with standout cultural, scientific, and historic destinations including Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, Dinosaur Ridge, the Colorado Railroad Museum, the Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum, and the American Mountaineering Museum.

Responsibilities
  • Advance JCPL’s mission, vision, values, and long-range goals.
  • Support the Board’s governance and policy work.
  • Lead strategic planning and implementation.
  • Oversee the annual budget, capital planning, contracts, facilities, technology, collections, programs, and services.
  • Directly supervise the Senior Management Team.
  • Serve as a visible spokesperson and advocate for the Library with residents, partners, public officials, the media, and the broader library profession.
Qualifications
  • Minimum qualifications: a master’s degree in public administration, business administration, information systems, or a related field; 8+ years of progressively responsible leadership experience, including at least 5 years supervising managers or senior staff in a library system.
  • Preferred qualifications: a master’s degree in library and information science from an ALA-accredited program; 8+ years of progressively responsible leadership experience in a library system, including at least 5 years of supervising managers or senior staff. Multi-location leadership experience, experience overseeing an organizational budget, administrative experience in a public library, experience working in a unionized environment, experience reporting to a governing board, and work with elected officials.
Compensation & Application

Compensation: The hiring salary range is $170,000 – $195,000, with placement negotiable depending on experience and qualifications. An excellent fringe benefits package is included.

Interested candidates should submit their resume through the application portal by selecting the position and then the “Apply” button. For further information, contact Bradbury Miller Associates. This position closes on Sunday, August 9, 2026.

Visit our website to access the latest version of this announcement in full, along with all related links.

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