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Public Library Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Anderson County

Library Assistant I

Briceville, TN

$10.60/hr

The Briceville Public Library seeks an energetic, motivated individual who is interested in joining its team. Primary responsibilities include providing prompt and friendly service to the public at ...

Anderson County Government

Library Assistant I

TN · On-site

$10.60/hr

The Briceville Public Library seeks an energetic, motivated individual who is interested in joining its team. Primary responsibilities include providing prompt and friendly service to the public at ...

City of Memphis, TN

Library_Customer Svc Asst

Memphis, TN · On-site

$42K - $63K/yr

... provide public information services at the general reference desk in the areas of children, teen ... Works at various library agencies to assist with the collection and development of library ...

City of Memphis, TN

Library_Customer Svc Asst

Memphis, TN · On-site

$42K - $63K/yr

... provide public information services at the general reference desk in the areas of children, teen ... Works at various library agencies to assist with the collection and development of library ...

Memphis Staffing

Library_Customer Svc Asst

Memphis, TN · On-site

$42K - $63K/yr

... provide public information services at the general reference desk in the areas of children, teen ... Works at various library agencies to assist with the collection and development of library ...

Neumo Holdings LLC

Librarian (On-Site)

Germantown, TN · On-site

Fast paced public library. * Self-starter with ability to work in a self-directed environment with minimal guidance. Physical Demands: * Ability to move from place to place within the location; lift ...

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All JobsPublic Library JobsPublic Library Jobs in Tennessee

Public Library information

See Tennessee salary details

$27.7K

$58.3K

$92.6K

How much do public library jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for public library in Tennessee is $58,260.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,900.00 and $70,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

More about Public Library jobs

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

The most popular types of Public Library jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Public Library jobs in Tennessee?

For Public Library jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Public Library jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Public Library jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Public Library job openings:

Public Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Library job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,260 per year, or $28 per hour.

REFERENCE SERVICES MANAGER - JOHN P. HOLT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY

Brentwood, TN • On-site

GovernmentJobs.com
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees
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Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Reference Services Manager

The City of Brentwood seeks an experienced, service-minded library professional to join its team as Reference Services Manager for the John P. Holt Brentwood Library.

This is a key leadership role for someone who enjoys supervising staff, overseeing collections and services, supporting library programming, and helping shape the future of a public library. The Reference Services Manager plays an important role in daily operations while also contributing to strategic planning, community engagement, and high-quality public service.

The John P. Holt Brentwood Library provides access to over 165,000 books and other materials, including audiobooks, DVDs, music CDs, databases, and online resources. With a mission of being a vibrant and engaging community center for lifelong learning and the arts, the Library continues to be an important resource for the Brentwood community. Situated in a beautiful park setting and bordered by a walking trail and arboretum, the Library is widely known as one of the crown jewels of the City of Brentwood.

This position requires regular evening and weekend work based on library operations, programming, and staffing needs.

Duties and responsibilities include managing, supervising, scheduling, and supporting Reference Department staff and daily operations; serving as the person in charge of the library as needed, including regular evening and weekend responsibilities; overseeing adult and teen collections, databases, online resources, interlibrary loan, and related reference tools; monitoring department budgets, usage statistics, and reports to support purchasing decisions, planning, and operations; helping develop and coordinate programs, outreach, and services for adults, teens, families, schools, and community groups; and providing high-quality public service by assisting patrons, supporting daily operations, and helping uphold library policies and procedures.

The ideal candidate has demonstrated success leading library staff, managing priorities, and supporting high-quality public service; brings strong organizational and supervisory skills, with the ability to balance daily operations and long-term goals; communicates clearly and collaboratively with staff, patrons, and community partners; has experience with collections, databases, programming, and budget oversight in a public library setting; is adaptable, approachable, and professional, with the ability to remain calm under pressure and handle issues that arise in a busy public-facing environment; and values lifelong learning and understands the library's role in enriching and connecting the community.

Minimum training and experience required include a master's degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited program, along with 3 to 5 years of management experience in a library setting and familiarity with technical services in a public library. Demonstrated problem-solving ability with desktop computers and experience managing a library software system required. Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for the position may be considered.

The City of Brentwood is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City may provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

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