1

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

Our library seeks a forward-thinking Head ofPublic Services Librarian to lead, coordinate, and administer thelibrary's Public Services Department encompassing circulation,reference, library ...

The Public Services Operations Manager ensures consistent, high-quality service across all library locations by managing floater staffing, directing hiring and onboarding, providing staff training ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 6, 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 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 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 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 $66,358 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

Assistant Circulation Manager (Library Assistant II)

Fairfax County

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$24.32 - $33.44/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Fairfax County rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

348th of 856 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Assistant Circulation Manager

Manages the operations of the Circulation Department in the absence of the circulation manager and serves as person-in-charge as needed. Serves on branch management team. Responds to the needs of library customers and resolves customer issues. Performs all essential circulation and support duties. Performs other duties as may be assigned to further the goals and objectives of Fairfax County Public Library. Fairfax County Public Library supports the goals of One Fairfax, fostering equity and opportunity in the delivery of programs and services. Note: This job announcement may be used to fill future Assistant Circulation Manager vacancies. Schedule: Scheduling flexibility is imperative. Standard hours may include day and/or evening hours to include weekdays and weekends. The schedule may vary depending on the needs of the library. The selected applicant's starting hourly rate will be in the minimum to midpoint range ($24.3179 - $33.4371) of the advertised compensation range (Note: Compensation rules per Fairfax County personnel regulations apply for current Fairfax County Government and Fairfax County Public Schools employees). 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.)

  • Assists in the overall management of the circulation department of a large library (regional library);
  • Communicates circulation policies and procedures;
  • Prepares daily and biweekly circulation or page schedules, ensuring efficient branch coverage;
  • Assists in the management of the circulation department;
  • Interviews, selects, trains and evaluates the performance of subordinates and volunteers;
  • Serves as manager-in-charge of circulation department as required;
  • Communicates circulation policies and procedures;
  • Resolves non-routine circulation problems and clients' account issues, referring as appropriate;
  • Performs all general public service circulation duties and support tasks;
  • Serves as a member of the Branch Management Team;
  • May schedule staff and plan workflow to ensure adequate coverage;
  • May serve as branch Person-In-Charge;
  • May assist with outreach and other library programs.
  • Serves as volunteer coordinator.
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.)

  • Ability to lead and supervise a large team;
  • Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously;
  • Ability to perform complex and diverse work required at a large library (regional library);
  • Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with others;
  • Ability to exercise tact, good judgment and initiative;
  • Ability to deal with stressful situations and difficult customers;
  • Knowledge of library policies and procedures;
  • Ability to work independently within established policies, procedures, and guidelines;
  • Ability to evaluate procedures and recommend improvements;
  • Ability to analyze problems and recommend solutions;
  • Ability to supervise and coordinate the work of others;
  • Ability to effectively train others;
  • Ability to learn and independently use office equipment, including software suites and
  • specialized databases;
  • Ability to operate a library's automated circulation system;
  • Knowledge of word processing and computer applications;
  • Ability to adapt to workplace change;
  • Ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing;
  • Knowledge of English grammar, spelling, and punctuation;
  • Ability to sort alphabetically and numerically;
  • Ability to perform basic arithmetic.
Employment Standards

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Any combination of education, experience, and training equivalent to the following: (Click on the aforementioned link to learn how Fairfax County interprets equivalencies for "Any combination, experience, and training equivalent to") Completion of two years (60 semester hours) of course work at an accredited college or university; plus, two years of full-time library experience or the equivalent amount of part-time library experience, including one year performing duties comparable to Library Assistant I. 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 experience working in a public library, to include supervisory experience and customer service experience. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Ability to input, access, and retrieve information from a computer. Ability to lift up to 15 lbs. Ability to perform repetitive hand, arm, wrist and shoulder movements. Ability to push and pull 4-wheeled book bins filled at 90% capacity, requiring 20 lbs of initial (starting) force, and a sustained force of 10 lbs after initial acceleration. Ability to push and pull 4-wheeled book carts filled at 70% capacity, requiring 14 lbs of initial (starting) force, and a sustained force of 7 lbs after initial acceleration. 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. Physical requirements are applicable to all duties. 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

Benefits

Merit Positions

Fairfax County is proud to offer employees an attractive and comprehensive benefits program, including the following:

  • Medical/Vision/Dental Insurance Coverage
  • Group Term Life Insurance
  • Long Term Disability
  • LiveWell Program
  • Flexible Spending Programs
  • Paid Leave (annual, sick, parental, volunteer activity, and more!)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Contributory Retirement Plan
  • Deferred Compensation
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employees' Child Care Center
  • Continuous Learning Opportunities

Please click here (Download PDF reader) for a summary of our benefits. NOTE: Fairfax County Government is a qualifying employer under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. For more information about the PSLF program: Public Service Loan Forgiveness | Federal Student Aid

For additional details please visit the County's benefits webpage.

Non-Merit Positions

  1. Non-Merit Benefit Eligible: scheduled to work a minimum 1,040 hours and no more than a maximum of 1,560 hours in a calendar year.
    • Medical/Vision/Dental Insurance Coverage
    • Flexible Spending Program
    • Deferred Compensation
  2. Temporary: scheduled to work a maximum of 900 hours in a calendar year.
    • No benefits

What Fairfax County employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom