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Public Library Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Library Assistant 2

Blountville, TN ยท On-site

$30K - $35K/yr

Library Assistant 2 Employee Classification: Clerical/Support Institution: Northeast State Community College Department: Library Salary: $30,598 - $35,424, dependent on education and experience ...

Library Assistant III

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

$36K - $43K/yr

Library Assistant III POSITION SUMMARY This position works collaboratively with other members of the unit to connect library patrons with the information, services, and collections they need. Working ...

Showing results 41-60

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 6, 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 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.
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:
Infographic showing various Public Library job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,260 per year, or $28 per hour.

PART-TIME LIBRARY TECHNICIAN - TECHNICAL SERVICES - JOHN P. HOLT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY

City of Brentwood, TN

Brentwood, TN โ€ข On-site

$18.55/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Salary: $18.55 Hourly
Location : 8109 Concord Road, Brentwood, TN
Job Type: Part time
Job Number: 2026-46
Department: LIBRARY
Opening Date: 05/20/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
Seeking candidates for a Part-Time Library Technician - Technical Services at the John P. Holt Brentwood Library, Brentwood, TN
John P. Holt Brentwood Library
Starting pay for this position is $18.55/hour, plus:
$1,000 annual Transportation Supplement (paid over 26 pay periods)
Up to 5% salary increase after successful completion of six-month probationary period.
This position will remain posted until filled.
The City of Brentwood seeks a detail-oriented professional with strong organizational skills andan interest in behind-the-scenes library operations to join its team as a Library Technician at the John P. Holt Brentwood Library.
The Library Technician helps support Technical Services operations by assisting with receiving, processing, cataloging, repairing, and preparing library materials for circulation. This position works behind the scenes to help ensure library materials are accurately maintained, properly processed, and ready for patrons to enjoy. This is a part-time position working 20 to 29 hours per week, Monday through Friday during daytime hours. No evenings or weekends are required.
The John P. Holt Brentwood Library provides access to over 165,000 books and other materials, including audiobooks, DVDs, music CDs, and online resources. With the mission of being a vibrant and engaging community center for lifelong learning and the arts, the Library continues to be a valued resource for the Brentwood community. Situated in a beautiful park setting and bordered by a walking trail and arboretum, the John P. Holt Brentwood Library is known as the crown jewel of the City of Brentwood.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Receives, processes, and prepares new library materials for circulation.
  • Performs physical processing of library materials, including applying stamps, RFID tags, barcodes, covers, labels, and other identifying materials.
  • Performs copy cataloging, edits bibliographic records, and assists with maintaining accurate library holdings records.
  • Assists with acquisitions, invoicing, receiving shipments, sorting materials, and tracking items in the library's ILS system, Polaris.
  • Repairs, withdraws, and helps evaluate damaged, outdated, or incomplete materials.
  • Retrieves and delivers materials between Technical Services, Circulation, Children's, and Reference departments.
  • Assists with donations, special projects, and other library support needs as assigned.

The Ideal Candidate
  • Has strong organizational and technical skills.
  • Demonstrates excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Enjoys behind-the-scenes work that supports public service.
  • Is comfortable using computers and learning library software systems.
  • Can manage multiple tasks and priorities with limited supervision.
  • Works well independently and as part of a team.
  • Communicates clearly and professionally with staff, patrons, and community partners.

Minimum Training and Experience Required
High school diploma or GED required; some college coursework or a college degree preferred. Library experience is preferred, or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
(ADA) Minimum Qualifications or Standards to Perform Essential Job Functions
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Must be physically able to operate a variety of automated office machines, including a computer, printer, copy machine, calculator, telephone, and related equipment. Must be able to use body members to work, move, or carry objects or materials. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk, stand, use hands to handle or operate objects, tools, or controls, and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch, and reach with arms and hands. The employee must occasionally lift, pull, push and/or move up to 25 pounds.
DATA CONCEPTION: Requires the ability to compare and or judge the readily observable functional, technical, structural, or compositional characteristics (whether similar to or divergent from obvious standards) of data, people, or things.
INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION: Requires the ability of speaking and/or signaling people to convey or exchange administrative and technical information. Includes giving assignments and/or directions to co-workers or assistants.
LANGUAGE ABILITY: Requires the ability to read a variety of informational documentation, directions, instructions, and methods and procedures related to the job of Technical Services Library Technician I. Requires the ability to write reports with proper format, punctuation, spelling, and grammar, using all parts of speech. Requires the ability to speak with and before others with poise, voice control, and confidence using correct English and a well-modulated voice.
INTELLIGENCE: Requires the ability to learn and understand basic to complex principles and techniques; to make independent judgments in absence of supervision; to acquire knowledge of topics related to the job of Technical Services Library Technician I.
VERBAL APTITUDE: Requires the ability to record and deliver information to supervisors and officials; to explain procedures and policies; and to follow verbal and written instructions, guidelines, and objectives.
NUMERICAL APTITUDE: Requires the ability to utilize mathematical formulas; add and subtract totals; multiply and divide; determine percentages; determine time and weight; and utilize statistical inference.
FORM/SPATIAL APTITUDE: Requires the ability to inspect items for proper length, width, and shape, visually with office equipment.
MOTOR COORDINATION: Requires the ability to coordinate hands and eyes in using automated equipment.
MANUAL DEXTERITY: Requires the ability to handle a variety of items, office equipment, control knobs, switches, etc. Must have the ability to use one hand for twisting or turning motion while coordinating other hand with different activities. Must have minimal levels of eye/hand/foot coordination.
COLOR DISCRIMINATION: May require the ability to differentiate colors and shades of color.
INTERPERSONAL TEMPERAMENT: Requires the ability to deal with people (i.e., staff, supervisors, general public, and officials) beyond giving and receiving instructions such as in interpreting departmental policies and procedures. Must be adaptable to performing under minimal stress when confronted with an emergency related to the job of Technical Services Library Technician I.
PHYSICAL COMMUNICATION: Requires the ability to talk and/or hear: (talking - expressing or exchanging ideas by means of spoken words). (Hearing - perceiving nature of sounds by ear).
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.
City of Brentwood's benefit package is only offered to full-time employees.