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Public Library Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

Recruitment Information Recruitment Number 26-0075 This vacancy is with the Hawaii State Public Library System, Technical Services Section, located in Salt Lake-Moanalua Public Library. Salary: $6 ...

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Public Library information

See Hawaii salary details

$31.7K

$66.7K

$106K

How much do public library jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for public library in Hawaii is $66,691.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,400.00 and $81,000.00 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 popular job titles related to Public Library jobs in Hawaii? For Public Library jobs in Hawaii, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Public Library jobs in Hawaii look for? The top searched job categories for Public Library jobs in Hawaii are:
What cities in Hawaii are hiring for Public Library jobs? Cities in Hawaii with the most Public Library job openings:
Infographic showing various Public Library job openings in Hawaii as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,691 per year, or $32.1 per hour.
LIBRARY TECHNICIAN V - SHIFT WORK - KAUA'I

LIBRARY TECHNICIAN V - SHIFT WORK - KAUA'I

State of Hawai'i

Honolulu, HI

$3.6K - $5.3K/mo

Other

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Recruitment Information Recruitment Number 25-0490 The vacancies are located at Kapa'a Public Library and Princeville Public Library. Salary: $3,606 to $4,563 per month (SR-11, Step C to I) Note: Hiring rates will be based on availability of funds, the applicant's qualifications, and other relevant factors. Shift Work: Applicants must be willing and able to work rotating shifts, including evenings and weekends.

A continuous recruitment may be closed at any time. The notice of the last day to file applications will be posted on the State of Hawaii's Civil Service Job Opportunities Listing page of our website. Duties Summary Performs highly complex library support work; supervises and participates in performing complex library support work; and/or performs substantive technical/paraprofessional library support work which requires knowledge and understanding of techniques used in one or more of the basic elements of library sciences; and performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualification Requirements To qualify, you must meet all of the following requirements: Legal Authorization to Work: The State of Hawaii requires all persons seeking employment with the government of the State shall be citizens, nationals, or permanent resident aliens of the United States, or eligible under federal law for unrestricted employment in the United States. General Experience: One (1) year of clerical work experience, which demonstrated knowledge of spelling and arithmetic; and the ability to read, understand and follow oral and written instructions, and compare words and numbers quickly and accurately. This experience must also demonstrate knowledge of and ability to perform various clerical procedures, operate various kinds of office equipment, and deal with others in a tactful and polite manner; or must have been at least comparable to the Library Assistant II level.

The Library Assistant II performs a number of simple and repetitive clerical or manual library routines in accordance with established procedures; and performs other related duties as assigned. Specialized Experience: Two (2) years of progressively responsible experience in a library which involved performing various library support activities (e.g., circulation work, stack maintenance, processing orders for library materials, posting receipt of periodicals and other materials, locating and verifying bibliographic information using standard sources, etc.) and which demonstrated knowledge of and required the application of library terminology, practices, policies and procedures and understanding of the nature and organization of library materials. This experience must also demonstrate knowledge and understanding of various elements related to the organization of library materials, including elements of bibliographic description, catalog card elements and general format, standard library tools and reference sources (e.g., Library of Congress Subject Headings, Books in Print, Reader's Guide to Periodical Literature), classification scheme(s) (e.g., Dewey Decimal, Library of Congress), and/or the nature of various types of publications and materials

At least one year of the required Specialized Experience must have been comparable to the Library Assistant IV level. The Library Assistant IV independently performs complex library support work; supervises and participates in performing moderately complex library support work; provides all non-professional support for a school library; and performs other related duties as assigned. Supervisory Aptitude: For certain positions, supervisory aptitude may be required.

Supervisory aptitude is the demonstration of aptitude or potential for the performance of supervisory duties through successful completion of regular or special assignments which involve some supervisory responsibilities or aspects; by serving as a group or team leader, or in similar work in which opportunities for demonstrating supervisory capabilities exist; by completion of training courses in supervision accompanied by application of supervisory skills in work assignments; or by favorable appraisals by a supervisor indicating the possession of supervisory potential. Substitutions Allowed: Relevant substitutions as described in the Minimum Qualification Requirements (click link below) will apply. The information provided above represents a summary of the complete Minimum Qualification Requirements.

To view the Requirements in their entirety, please CLICK HERE. 04043:022712:03:DKA Other Information The State of Hawai'i complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If you require reasonable accommodations in completing an application, any pre-employment testing, or otherwise participating in the selection process, please call 808-587-1111 for assistance.

PUBLIC SERVICE LOAN FORGIVENESS (PSLF) PROGRAM The PSLF Program is a federal program that is intended to encourage individuals to work in public service by forgiving the balance of their federal student loans. To qualify, the individual must have made 120 qualifying payments while employed by a qualifying employer. For more information, please click: https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/repay-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service ELECTRONIC NOTIFICATION TO APPLICANTS The Department of Human Resources Development (HRD) will use electronic mail (email) to notify applicants of important information relating to the status and processing of their applications as part of our ongoing efforts to increase operational efficiency, promote the conservation of green resources, and minimize delays and costs

Please ensure that the email address and contact information you provide is current, secure, and readily accessible to you. We will not be responsible in any way if you do not receive our emails or fail to check your email-box in a timely manner. In addition, please be aware that you may no longer receive notification about applications submitted if you choose to disable the Job Application Emails feature in your Account Settings.

TESTING INFORMATION The examination for this recruitment will be conducted on an unassembled basis where the examination score is based on an evaluation and rating of your education and experience. It is therefore important that your employment application provide a clear and detailed description of the duties and responsibilities of each position you held. In-person interviews and/or further testing in Hawaii may be required at the discretion of the hiring agency.

If in-person interviews and/or further testing are required, applicants who meet the minimum qualification requirements and are referred to the vacancy must be available to participate in person and at their own expense in this phase of the selection process. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible. In addition to employment availability and score, the referral of qualified applicants may be based upon other factors including date of receipt of the application.

CLICK HERE for further information about Equal Employment Opportunity, the Merit Civil Service System, Citizenship and other requirements, Reasonable Accommodation, Veterans Preference, Examination Requirements, and the State Recruiting Office's Levels of Review.