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Public Library Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

City of Middleton, WI

Library Page

Middleton, WI · On-site

$15.38/hr

Middleton Public Library - Middleton, WI Job Type: Non-Regular, Part-Time Permanent Job Number: 2026.38.025.01 Department: Middleton Public Library Division: Unclassified Staff Opening Date: 08/25 ...

City of Middleton

Library Page

Middleton, WI

$15.38/hr

The role also includes providing general support for public services, library resources, and programming, as well as assisting patrons by directing questions to the appropriate staff. Schedule ...

Wisconsin

Head of Mills Music Library

Madison, WI · On-site +1

$75K - $110K/yr

Proven experience with public services in an academic or research library * Experience with collection development in an academic or research library * Supervisory experience or experience leading ...

Madison College

Library Services Assistant

Madison, WI · On-site

$20.96 - $22.43/hr

The Library Services Assistant serve as an important point of contact for students and provide para-professional support to librarians, Student Achievement Centers and special projects as needed.

City of Columbus (WI)

Recreation Director

Columbus, WI · On-site

$59K - $74K/yr

The Recreation director works with Columbus schools, Prairie Ridge Hospital, Columbus Public Library, and other organizations and businesses in Columbus to promote recreation and community events.

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All JobsPublic Library JobsPublic Library Jobs in Madison, WI

Public Library information

See Madison, WI salary details

$30.7K

$64.7K

$102.8K

How much do public library jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for public library in Madison, WI is $64,680.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,900.00 and $78,600.00 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 Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Public Library jobs in Madison, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Public Library jobs in Madison, WI?

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

What job categories do people searching Public Library jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Library jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Public Library jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Public Library job openings:

Public Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Library job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,680 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Library Director - Jackson County Library District (OR)

Alsip-Merrionette Park Public Library District

Oregon, WI • On-site

$150 - $180/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Library Director – Jackson County Library District (OR)

The Jackson County Library District (OR) seeks a professional, proactive, and community-centered leader to serve as its next Library Director. The Library Director will bring a strong commitment to public service, sound fiscal leadership, and the ability to inspire staff, strengthen community relationships, and advance forward-thinking strategic priorities for one of Oregon’s vibrant public library systems. Jackson County Library District operating as Jackson County Library Services (JCLS), serves more than 220,000 residents through a network of 15 unique community libraries, including an 84,000-square-foot Main Library. The library employs 133 FTE and operates with a $17 million budget. JCLS offers a diverse collection of physical and digital resources for children, teens, and adults, along with outreach services that extend the library’s reach throughout the county, including book talks for elementary and middle school students, homebound delivery services, and partnerships with local childcare centers.

Reporting to a five-member Board of Trustees, the Library Director will provide strategic, administrative, and operational leadership for the district. The ideal candidate will be a collaborative and relationship-focused leader who builds trust with staff, community members, partners, and stakeholders; communicates a clear and compelling vision for library service; listens actively to diverse perspectives; and balances strategic leadership with effective day-to-day management. This leader will guide the development and implementation of the district’s five-year strategic plan while serving as a visible ambassador for JCLS throughout Jackson County and the broader library community.

Located midway between Portland and San Francisco, Jackson County, Oregon enjoys more than 200 days of sunshine each year. Nature enthusiasts enjoy the region’s diverse landscapes such as rafting the Rogue River, hiking the iconic Table Rocks, or exploring Crater Lake National Park. The area offers scenic valleys, mountain lakes, award-winning wineries, and convenient access to the Redwoods and the Oregon coast. The region’s vibrant arts and cultural scene features the Craterian Theater at The Collier Center, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and the Britt Festival, the Pacific Northwest's premier outdoor summer performing arts festival. The area’s warm, sunny summers and mild winters support a thriving agricultural system, making it a prime destination for world-class wine tasting and artisan food.

Responsibilities:Responsibilities include developing the district's vision, goals, and strategic objectives in partnership with the Board of Trustees; establishing operational priorities aligned with those goals and applicable legislative requirements; administering district policies, recommending policy updates, and providing executive support to the board; cultivating strong relationships throughout the community and with state and national organizations; and collaborating with the Jackson County Library Foundation and Friends of the Library to strengthen fundraising and volunteer engagement. The Library Director will also prepare and oversee the district's annual budget, remain current with emerging library trends and technologies, and ensure that library collections, facilities, and services continue to meet the evolving needs of Jackson County residents. For a full list of responsibilities, see the links in the job posting on the Bradbury Miller Associatewebsite (https://bradburymiller.com/open-positions/ ).

Qualifications:The minimum qualifications for this role include a Masters of Library Science from an ALA-accredited institution and seven years of supervisory and leadership experience in a public library.

Compensation: The hiring salary range is $150,000 – $180,000, with placement dependent on experience and qualifications, plus an excellent benefits package.

Location

Library Director – Jackson County Library District (OR), Out Of State

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