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Public Library Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

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Public Library information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$31.5K

$66.4K

$105.4K

How much do public library jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for public library in Silver Spring, MD is $66,358.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,200.00 and $80,600.00 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 Silver Spring, MD? For Public Library jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Public Library jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Public Library jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Public Library jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Public Library job openings:
Infographic showing various Public Library job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,358 per year, or $31.9 per hour.
Community Assistant Branch Manager (Librarian II)

Community Assistant Branch Manager (Librarian II)

Fairfax County

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$65K - $109K/yr

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Fairfax County rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

285th of 668 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Announcement Manages and supervises the information department of a community library. Manages and supervises the branch in the absence of the branch manager. Serves on branch management team.

Responds to the needs of library customers and resolves more complex customer issues. Performs all essential information and support duties. Performs other duties as may be assigned to further the goals and objectives of Fairfax County Public Library.

This job announcement may be used to fill multiple current and future full-time Community Assistant Branch Manager (Librarian II) vacancies; current vacancies are located at the following branches: Burke Centre Library, 5935 Freds Oak Road, Burke, VA, 22015 Thomas Jefferson Library, 7415 Arlington Boulevard, Falls Church, VA, 22042-7409 Salary: The salary offer will be in the minimum to midpoint ($65,474.66 to $83,310.03) of the advertised compensation range. Compensation rules apply per Fairfax County Personnel Regulations for current Fairfax County Government and Fairfax County Public Schools employees. Schedule: Scheduling flexibility is imperative

Standard hours may include day and/or evening hours to include weekdays and weekends. To learn more about a career with Fairfax County Public Library, watch our video "Library Staff Share Why They Love Working at the Library" Illustrative Duties (The illustrative duties listed in this specification are representative of the class but are not an all-inclusive list. A complete list of position duties and unique physical requirements can be found in the position job description.) Serves on Branch Management Team; Serves as person-in-charge; May schedule staff and plan workflow to ensure adequate coverage; Resolves non-routine patron interactions by communicating and interpreting library policy for staff and the general public; Addresses the more difficult and complex reference and reader advisory services; Promotes and represents Library System before outside groups; May develop informational finding tools; May select, train, supervise, and evaluate subordinate personnel; May facilitate staff meetings; Answers informational and reference questions from customers using print and electronic resources; Assists and instructs customers in the use of print and online materials and technology; Advises and assists customers in the selection of books, periodicals, media, and other materials; Plans and provides programs and outreach to customers of all ages; Maintains collection by weeding, marketing, and merchandising library materials; Troubleshoots library computers and reports unresolved problems through proper channels; Performs copy cataloging of library materials; Identifies materials to be considered for addition to the library collection; Remains current in resources, services and technologies in the information field; May supervise volunteers

Serves as acting branch manager in the absence of the branch manager; Assists community branch manager in planning and directing the activities of a community library; Directly supervises adult information services and the youth services manager within the branch; Oversees the management of the branch collection. Required Knowledge Skills and Abilities (The knowledge, skills and abilities listed in this specification are representative of the class but are not an all-inclusive list.) General knowledge of statistics and budget preparation; Ability to prioritize and schedule workload of the department; Ability to effectively select, train, supervise, and evaluate subordinates; Knowledge of the principles, standards, and practices of library science; Knowledge of library reference sources and methods; Ability to create or curate professional resources; Ability to use professional knowledge to manage the library's collection; Ability to prioritize and manage a self-directed workload; Ability to provide information service to customers of all ages; Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with others; Ability to exercise tact, good judgment, and initiative; Knowledge of word processing and computer applications; Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing to answer reference questions and provide reading guidance; Knowledge of the Library's operating procedures; Ability to interpret Library policy for staff and the general public; Ability to promote interest in library services; Ability to plan and provide community-oriented library programs and outreach; Ability to adapt to workplace change; Ability to classify and catalog material. Employment Standards MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Master's degree from an ALA (American Library Association) accredited library school and one year of professional library experience

CERTIFICATES AND LICENSES REQUIRED: Possession of a certificate issued by the Virginia State Board for Certification of Librarians within three (3) months of date of appointment to the position. NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check and child protective services check to the satisfaction of the employer. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Two or more years of public library experience with one or more years of experience in a supervisory capacity training, coaching, and evaluating staff.

Experience assisting customers of all ages with informational, instructional and/or readers' advisory services. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Ability to push and pull 4-wheeled book bins filled at 90% capacity, requiring 20 pounds of initial (starting) force, and a sustained force of 10 pounds after initial acceleration. Ability to push and pull 4-wheeled book carts filled at 70% capacity, requiring 14 pounds of initial (starting) force, and a sustained force of 7 pounds after initial acceleration.

Ability to input, access, and retrieve information from a computer. Ability to lift up to 15 pounds. Ability to perform repetitive hand, arm, wrist and shoulder movements.

Ability to shelve materials at all height levels. Ability to stand for 2 hours at a time. Ability to stoop, bend, reach, squat, and kneel.

Ability to travel to various locations throughout Fairfax County to provide coverage, attend meetings and trainings. All duties performed with or without reasonable accommodations. SELECTION PROCEDURE: Panel interview and may include exercise.

Fairfax County is home to a highly diverse population, with a significant number of residents speaking languages other than English at home (including Spanish, Asian/Pacific Islander, Indo-European, and many others.) We encourage candidates who are bilingual in English and another language to apply for this opportunity. Fairfax County Government prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce. Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act

TTY 703-222-7314. DHREmployment@fairfaxcounty.gov EEO/AA/TTY. #LI-JY1


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