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Public Library Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

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Library Clerk I- Madison

Madison, AL · On-site

$12.50/hr

Library Clerk I The Huntsville-Madison County Public Library is a non-profit library system comprised of ten locations providing library and information services to the city of Huntsville and the ...

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Mobile Civil Service

Librarian III

Mobile, AL · On-site

$60K - $96K/yr

Jurisdiction Yearly Salary Mobile Public Library $60,164 - $96,181 Requirements Minimum Qualification Requirements: Attainment of a minimum of a master's degree from a recognized college or ...

Mobile Civil Service

Librarian I

Mobile, AL · On-site

$47K - $75K/yr

Jurisdiction Yearly Salary Mobile Public Library $47,000 - $75,137 Requirements Minimum Qualification Requirements: Attainment of a minimum of a master's degree from a recognized college or ...

Mobile Civil Service

Librarian II

Mobile, AL · On-site

$51K - $82K/yr

Jurisdiction Yearly Salary Mobile Public Library $51,879 - $82,937 Requirements Minimum Qualification Requirements: Attainment of a minimum of a master's degree from a recognized college or ...

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All JobsPublic Library JobsPublic Library Jobs in Alabama

Public Library information

See Alabama salary details

$27.6K

$58.2K

$92.5K

How much do public library jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for public library in Alabama is $58,181.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,900.00 and $70,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Public Library vs Librarian?

AspectPublic LibraryLibrarian
CredentialsVaries; often requires a master's degree in library science (MLS)Typically requires an MLS or equivalent degree
Work EnvironmentPublic spaces serving community members, including children, adults, and seniorsLibraries, educational institutions, or archives; involves organizing and managing collections
Employer & IndustryPublic libraries, government agenciesLibraries, educational institutions, archives
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding what a public library offersRoles and responsibilities of a librarian

Public libraries are community-focused institutions providing access to books, resources, and programs. Librarians are professionals who manage library collections, assist patrons, and organize information. While public libraries are the setting, librarians are the key personnel working within these institutions. Both roles often require similar qualifications, but the library itself is a service point, whereas librarians are the staff delivering those services.

What are some common challenges faced by staff working in a public library, and how are they addressed?

Public library staff often encounter challenges such as managing diverse patron needs, addressing technology-related questions, and handling periods of high visitor volume. To address these, staff receive ongoing training in customer service, digital literacy, and conflict resolution. Collaborative teamwork is essential, with librarians and support staff frequently communicating to ensure smooth daily operations and equitable service for all visitors. Many libraries also implement clear policies and utilize flexible scheduling to help staff manage workloads effectively.

What is a public library?

A public library is a community-based institution that provides free access to books, digital resources, and various educational and cultural programs for people of all ages. Funded primarily by public money, these libraries offer lending services, internet access, research assistance, and spaces for study and community events. Public libraries aim to support literacy, lifelong learning, and equal access to information for everyone, regardless of background or income.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public librarian, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Librarian, you need a master's degree in library and information science (MLIS), knowledge of cataloging, and strong information literacy skills. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital databases, and electronic resource management is typically required. Exceptional customer service, communication, and community engagement skills help librarians connect with diverse patrons and foster a welcoming environment. These competencies ensure effective resource management, information access, and impactful support for community learning and enrichment.

What qualifications do you need to work at a public library?

To work at a public library, most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles such as librarian requiring a master's degree in library science or a related field. Relevant skills include customer service, organization, and familiarity with library management systems; certifications are not typically mandatory but can be beneficial for specialized roles.
More about Public Library jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Public Library jobs in Alabama? The most popular types of Public Library jobs in Alabama are:
What are popular job titles related to Public Library jobs in Alabama? For Public Library jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Public Library jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Public Library jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Public Library jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Public Library job openings:
Public Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Library job openings in Alabama 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, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,181 per year, or $28 per hour.

Library Clerk I- Madison

Huntsville Public Library

Madison, AL • On-site

$12.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

POSITION TITLE: Library Clerk I
The Huntsville-Madison County Public Library is a non-profit library system comprised of ten locations providing library and information services to the city of Huntsville and the surrounding Madison County area. HMCPL is seeking a Library Clerk I to assist library patrons to utilize the library's resources and services at a library location and/or department.
The ideal candidate will be passionate about libraries and creating an engaging and welcoming space for members of the community to create their own future, explore the universe of ideas, and connect with our community and the world.
LIBRARY LOCATION:
Madison Public Library
142 Plaza Blvd.
Madison, AL 35758
Location Hours
Sunday:1:00 pm-5:00 pm
Monday-Thursday:9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday-Saturday :9:00 am-5:00 pm
HOURS AND COMPENSATION: This is a part-time, 20 hour a week position with a rate of pay of $12.50 an hour. Schedule will include 2 nights a week and 2 weekends a month (see location hours). Scheduling flexibility is required.
GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES:
Responsible for assisting other staff members and patrons with basic circulation tasks, answering questions, and providing information to patrons. This position is classified as Non-exempt for the purposes of the Fair Labor Standards Act.
Work involves responsibility for routine circulation tasks, shelf maintenance, and clerical functions using the Library's library management software system. Duties include checking books in and out on behalf of patrons, performing basic patron record
maintenance, shelving library materials, and answering general patron inquiries.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Works under the direction of the branch or department manager.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED:
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Teamwork & Leadership:
  • Acts as a team member in fulfilling the Library's Mission Statement: "This is the public's library. We empower individuals to create their own futures, explore the universe of ideas, and connect with our community and the world."

Customer Service:
  • Answers informational and directional questions from patrons both in-person and by telephone; refers questions and inquiries to the appropriate staff member or department as needed.
  • Monitors patron activities in the assigned area and may handle problems as they occur.

Circulation:
  • Responsible for shelving materials, shelf reading, weeding projects, and regular inventory as assigned.
  • Assists in shelving materials, shelf reading, weeding projects, and regular inventory as assigned.

Internet & Technology:
  • Uses automated library systems for transaction relating to library materials, managing patron accounts including recording fines paid, locating materials, and performing additional procedures as needed.
  • Operates a variety of standard office and library equipment.

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS:
Participates in special projects and performs other duties as assigned
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Requires standing, walking, reaching, climbing, stooping, and lifting/carrying items generally not exceeding 40 pounds. Must possess the vision required to read printed materials and a computer screen. Must possess the ability to hear and speak both in person and over the telephone. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: Generally involves everyday risks or discomforts which require normal safety precautions typical of office environments. Involves regular contact with the general public. May interact with upset staff and/or members of the public.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of basic computer skills; knowledge of basic math skills; ability to operate computer and library systems including telephone, tablets, and various devices; ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions including posted schedules; ability to work both independently and as a member of a team; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors, subordinates, associates, corporate representatives, officials of other agencies, and the general public; ability to communicate effectively with coworkers and supervisors.
EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:
High school diploma from a school accredited by a regional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or GED certificate issued by the appropriate state agency; or any combination of education, training, and experience which provides a demonstrated potential for performing the above listed duties of the position is required.
Additional experience in a library or customer service-based role is desired.
This job description is not nor is it intended to be a complete state of all duties, functions, and responsibilities that comprise this position. Employees may be expected to perform additional duties that may not be reflected in this description.
The Huntsville-Madison County Public Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Revised: 05/2021
Salary Description
$12.50/hr, part-time, 20 hours per week

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