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Public Library Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Library Supervisor

Goodyear, AZ · On-site

$65K - $96K/yr

Experience in a public library * Experience presenting and facilitating programs in a library setting Job Contributions * Interviews, trains, supervises, and evaluates assigned branch staff and ...

Librarian - Salazar-Ajo Library

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$24.66 - $29.60/hr

Incorporate and implement public service best practices, including culturally competent community ... Master's degree in library and information science. * Bilingual (English/Spanish). * Experience ...

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Public Library information

See Arizona salary details

$28.4K

$59.8K

$95.1K

How much do public library jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for public library in Arizona is $59,818.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,100.00 and $72,700.00 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 jobs can you work at a library?

Jobs at a library include librarian, library assistant, library technician, archivist, and library clerk. These roles involve tasks such as managing collections, assisting patrons, cataloging materials, and maintaining library operations, often requiring relevant education or certifications and familiarity with library management systems.

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 Are the Qualifications to Work in a Public Library?

The qualifications you need to start a career in a public library depend on your job and its responsibilities. Library assistants need at least a high school diploma, while library technicians need previous experience and an associate degree or postsecondary certificate in library sciences. Librarians need a degree in library sciences. Most public libraries expect a master’s degree in library sciences (MLS), though some may hire specialists who have a related degree, such as a degree in information systems. All positions require customer service skills. Library directors and head librarians typically have 10 or more years of experience.

What qualifications are needed to work at a public library?

To work at a public library, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions, such as librarian roles, require a master's degree in library science. Customer service skills, familiarity with library systems and technology, and sometimes relevant certifications are also important for many library jobs.

Can you work at a library without being a librarian?

Yes, many library jobs do not require a librarian certification and include positions such as library assistants, clerks, or technicians. These roles often involve tasks like shelving, customer service, and administrative support, and may require basic computer skills and a high school diploma or equivalent.

Is it hard to get hired as a librarian?

Getting hired as a librarian typically requires a master's degree in library science or information studies and relevant experience. Competition can vary depending on the location and type of library, but strong organizational skills and familiarity with library management systems improve chances of employment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Public Library jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Public Library jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Public Library jobs in Arizona? For Public Library jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Public Library jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Public Library jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Public Library jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Public Library job openings:
Infographic showing various Public Library job openings in Arizona as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,818 per year, or $28.8 per hour.
Librarian II - Phoenix Public Library

Librarian II - Phoenix Public Library

Phoenix Police Department

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$64K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


City Of Phoenix rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

223rd of 668 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

ABOUT THIS POSITION
Phoenix Public Library (PPL) serves a diverse multiethnic clientele of over 4.8 million people, with a central library and 16 branches. The library offers collections in multiple languages, a full range of cutting-edge electronic resources and customer focused public services. PPL is a large system seeking motivated candidates to advance their career opportunities through a pathway designed for upward mobility. We offer a variety of development opportunities for supervisors through leadership and mentor programs. Join this innovative team today!
Librarians II perform professional library work and are responsible for providing innovative and creative approaches to goal setting, planning, customer service, age level programming, information services, readers advisory and system wide committee work. Librarians II are hired for system wide positions and are required to move throughout the system based upon operational needs. Supervision is exercised over professional, paraprofessional, technical, and clerical level staff. Branch Library positions serve as Assistant Managers and Central Library positions serve as collection or program specialists.
IDEAL CANDIDATE
  • Demonstrated ability with mobile devices, eBooks, eMedia resources, and technology, demonstrated customer service experience, ability to work in a team environment.

SALARY
Pay Range: $63,044.80 to $102,668.80 annually.
Hiring Range: $63,044.80 to $84,468.80 annually.
Effective July 6th, the following pay rates will be in effect.
Pay Range: $64,313.60 to $104,624.00 annually.
Hiring Range: $64,313.60 to $86,153.60 annually.
Pay Range Explanation:
  • Pay range is the entire compensation range for the position classification.
  • Hiring range is an estimate of where you can receive an offer. The actual salary offer will carefully consider a wide range of factors, including your skills, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, training, and internal equity.
Internal Only: Please understand that this is pay grade 057. If selected, your salary offer will be based on the applicable promotion or demotion worksheet in accordance with the City Pay Ordinance.
  • Promotions occur when the last two digits of the pay grade increase.
  • Demotions occur when the last two digits of the pay grade decrease.
  • Lateral transfers occur when there is no change to the last two digits of the pay grade.
  • When there is a change in the first digit of the pay grade, there may also be a change to your classification or unit.
Your job classification can be found in eCHRIS > Personal Details under your name, located in the top left section of the page.
The pay grade and classification/unit of your current position may be found by looking up your job title on the job description page .
BENEFITS
A comprehensive benefits package is offered which includes:
  • Traditional pension with employer and employee contributions, click here for more details: Pension Information
  • 401(a) and 457 plans with employer contributions
  • Choice of generous medical HMO, PPO, or HSA/HDHP plans
  • Medical enrollment includes a monthly $150 City contribution to a Post-Employment Health Plan
  • Wellness incentive of up to $720 annually
  • Dental, vision, and life insurance options
  • Employer paid long-term disability
  • Free Bus/light rail pass
  • Tuition reimbursement program up to $6,500 per year
  • Paid time off includes 13.5 paid holidays, 12 vacation days, and 15 sick days and personal leave days
  • Paid Parental Leave for eligible employees up to 480 hours (12 weeks) of paid leave for the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child during a 12-month period
  • Federal Student Loan Forgiveness offered through Savi
For more details, visit: Unit 007 Benefits
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Master's degree in library science from an American Library Association (ALA) accredited institution.
  • OR a Master's degree in an information science field such as business, education, humanities, law, science, or social science.
  • AND Two years of progressively responsible library experience, including one year of professional library work.
  • All finalists for positions are subject to a criminal background check applicable to the department or position.
  • For information regarding pre-screening and driving positions, click here .
  • The City job description can be found here .

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
The minimum qualifications listed above, plus:
Bilingual Spanish/Mandarin
  • Two years of experience creating and delivering programs and/or training to staff or customers in a library environment of which one year is in children, teen, or adult programming.
  • One year of supervisory experience including supervising, training, evaluating, and providing effective leadership to professional, paraprofessional, technical, and clerical level staff.
  • Two years of experience of providing customer service in a public library setting.

RECRUITMENT DATES
Recruitment closes July 13, 2026. All materials must be received by 11:59 p.m. on this date.
This is a position-based recruitment and will not result in any ongoing eligibility list. This recruitment and any selection processes resulting from this recruitment may be used to fill other related vacancies within the organization now or in the near future.
HOW TO APPLY
Apply online by completing the required information and attaching, as one document, your cover letter and resume. Please include your experience as it relates to the qualifications stated above. Only the highest qualified may be posted to the eligible to hire list. The results of the resume screening process will be sent to your primary email address.
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
  • Job interviews may be held by video or audio conference.
  • If you are in need of computer resources, click here for free options.
  • Arizona at Work has frequent classes to help with resume writing, interviewing skills, and general career guidance. Click here for more information.
  • Explore other Employment Opportunities with the City of Phoenix .
  • Subscribe to receive e-mail notifications about new employment opportunities.
  • If you require assistance at any stage of the application process due to an accessibility issue, please contact the Human Resources Department by phone at (602) 495-5700 or by text at (800) 367-8939 . You may also fill out and submit a Reasonable Accommodation Request Form .

REFERENCE
Librarian II, JC:30220, ID# 62184, 6/30/26, USM, AJ, Benefits:007
Building the Phoenix of tomorrow.
#DoWorkThatMakesPhoenixWork
City of Phoenix is an equal opportunity employer. AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service alumni who meet the required qualifications are encouraged to apply.

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