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Public Library Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Public Library information

See Merced, CA salary details

$32.2K

$67.8K

$107.7K

How much do public library jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for public library in Merced, CA is $67,786.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,300.00 and $82,400.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Public Library jobs in Merced, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Public Library jobs in Merced, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Library jobs in Merced, CA are:

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Public Library jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Public Library job openings:

Infographic showing various Public Library job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,786 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Library Assistant I (Extra Help Only) Yosemite Branch

Mariposa County

Mariposa, CA โ€ข On-site

$20.17 - $24.52/hr

Full-time

This job post hasย expired 4 days ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description The Mariposa County Library has a vacancy for a Library Assistant I (Extra Help Only) for the Yosemite branch location. Only online applications only. DEFINITION To perform a variety of responsible, sub-professional library and clerical work in support of daily Library operations; to assist patrons in the use of the Library and related services; and to perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

Library Assistant I is the entry-level classification in the series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform a variety of duties related to the circulation, reference, inter-library loan, and collection monitoring operations of the Library. SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Receives direction from the County Librarian.

Exercises lead direction over extra-help and volunteer staff. Examples of Duties EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Assists in planning and implementing Library programs and services. Prepares newly acquired library materials for processing and shelving.

Performs basic cataloging work. Performs circulation work, including checking materials in and out of the Library, maintaining circulation statistics, processing returned materials and preparing them for reshelving. Collects, stacks, shelves and reshelves library materials.

Accepts and receives payments for overdue or lost materials and maintains related records; prepares and processing billings for lost / overdue materials. Processes library card applications and issues library cards; maintains records of current patron information. Receives, researches and responds to patrons' reference requests; locates and provides requested materials and information; may refer complex reference questions to professional librarians as necessary.

Assists and instructs patrons in the proper use of library equipment and reference sources. Reserves library materials and notifies patrons of their availability; initiates and processes inter-library loan requests. Assists in maintaining order and discipline in the Library.

Performs various tasks related to the selection, ordering, purchasing, distribution and use of books and other materials; reviews and recommends the acquisition of new materials for the Library's collection; weeds out-dated materials from the collection. Monitors the condition of books and materials and performs necessary binding and repairs. Plans and prepares library displays.

Assists in researching and preparing grant applications for program and project funding. Receives and responds to inquiries, requests for assistance, concerns and complaints from the public regarding library programs, services and policies. Prepares and/or assists in preparing a variety of reports and correspondence related to Library operations, including budget and statistical reports, as assigned.

Participates in special projects as assigned. Provides training and lead direction over extra-help and volunteer staff as assigned. Assists in maintaining a neat, clean environment for staff and patrons.

Performs general clerical work as required, including preparing reports and correspondence, attending meetings, copying and filing documents, entering and retrieving computer data, answering the telephone, digitizing documents for preservation, etc. Minimum Qualifications Experience: Two years of full-time equivalent clerical experience with some public contact. Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent.

Completion of two years of college level course work in literature, liberal arts, library or social science or closely related field is desirable. Additional Requirements: Possession of a valid California driver's license or reliable transportation to and from assigned work areas . Under certain circumstances, the Human Resources Director may accept a valid driver's license from another state if applicant acknowledges his/her intent to acquire a California driver's license within three months by signing an acknowledgement form.

Supplemental Information EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS Knowledge of: Report and business letter preparation techniques. Modern office practices and technology, including the use of computers for data and word processing. Alphabetical, numerical and topical filing systems.

English usage, spelling, grammar and punctuation. Basic arithmetic. General functions and operations of a library.

Ability to: Learn, understand and apply pertinent laws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures. Sort and organize materials in alphabetical, numerical and topical order. Understand and carry out oral and written instructions.

Type or word process accurately at a rate required for successful job performance. Effectively use computers for word and data processing, records management. Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

Prepare clear and concise records and reports. Perform mathematical computations with accuracy. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Deal effectively with patrons with special needs, or in confrontational situations. Actively pursue personal professional growth through continuing education. TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS Work is performed in a normal office / library environment.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Requires the ability to sit at a desk for long periods of time and intermittently walk, stand, stoop, kneel, crouch, climb and reach while performing office duties; lift and/or move weights of up to 40 pounds; use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools or controls. Must be able to maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and perception needed for making observations, communicating with others, reading and writing, and operating office equipment. Must be able to use a telephone to communicate verbally and a keyboard to communicate through written means, to review information and enter/retrieve data, to see and read characters on a computer screen.

THE SELECTION PROCESS All interested applicants must complete and submit a job application including any required supplemental questionnaires, and attach any required documentation. For those who meet the minimum qualifications, a competitive evaluation of the training and experience described on your application or supplemental questionnaire, a written examination, a structured oral interview, a performance rating, or a combination of any of these, may be performed. You will be scored based on that competitive evaluation.

This process may be altered if there are ten or less applicants that qualified.