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Public Library Jobs in Springfield, TN (NOW HIRING)

CUMBERLAND UNIVERSITY

Entry-Level Librarian

Lebanon, TN · On-site

This position combines cataloging responsibilities, including public service duties such as library instruction, research assistance, and scheduled circulation desk coverage. The ideal candidate will ...

CUMBERLAND UNIVERSITY

Entry-Level Librarian

Lebanon, TN · On-site

This position combines cataloging responsibilities, including public service duties such as library instruction, research assistance, and scheduled circulation desk coverage. The ideal candidate will ...

Tennessee Board of Regents

Librarian

Nashville, TN

$48K - $60K/yr

Plan and conduct library instruction sessions both in-person and on Zoom. Serve as an embedded librarian for web courses. Assist in planning of library initiatives. Works with faculty to incorporate ...

The Tennessee Board of Regents

Librarian

Nashville, TN · On-site

$48K - $60K/yr

Plan and conduct library instruction sessions both in-person and on Zoom. Serve as an embedded librarian for web courses. Assist in planning of library initiatives. Works with faculty to incorporate ...

TNBR Careers

Librarian

Nashville, TN · On-site

$48K - $60K/yr

Plan and conduct library instruction sessions both in-person and on Zoom. Serve as an embedded librarian for web courses. Assist in planning of library initiatives. Works with faculty to incorporate ...

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All JobsPublic Library JobsPublic Library Jobs in Springfield, TN

Public Library information

See Springfield, TN salary details

$28.8K

$60.6K

$96.3K

How much do public library jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for public library in Springfield, TN is $60,620.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,700.00 and $73,700.00 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.
More about Public Library jobs
What job categories do people searching Public Library jobs in Springfield, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Public Library jobs in Springfield, TN are:
What cities near Springfield, TN are hiring for Public Library jobs? Cities near Springfield, TN with the most Public Library job openings:
Public Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Library job openings in Springfield, TN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $60,620 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Part Time Public Services Associate - Public Library

McGavock Churches of Christ

Clarksville, TN • On-site

$20.54/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 13 days ago

Job description


The purpose of this job is to provide interactive customer service and customer education, promote library services, display library material, assist with collection management, and help plan and present library programs at all Public Library locations.
Responsibilities
Department: Library
Pay Grade: 65, Non-Exempt
Starting hourly rate: $20.54
Minimum Experience: One year of customer service, administrative/general office or related experience.
Minimum Education: High School diploma or equivalent.
Certifications, Licenses:
  • Must have dependable transportation.
  • A pre-employment criminal background check is required.

The purpose of this job is to provide interactive customer service and customer education, promote library services, display library material, assist with collection management, and help plan and present library programs at all Public Library locations.
GENERAL POSITION DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The following duties are normal for this position. However, they are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each duty satisfactorily. Other duties may also be required or assigned.
  • Provides customer service to internal and external customers; greets, receives, and screens visitors and customers; addresses and resolves customer questions as able and refers complex inquiries, requests, or complaints to appropriate staff.
  • Works service desks, assisting patrons with checking out library materials and using public computers.
  • Registers patrons for library cards, helps with fees, places holds and performs payment transactions.
  • Pulls patron holds as needed.
  • Educates patrons in locating materials or information in all areas of the library. Provides readers advisory services and assists patrons in the use of all library technologies.
  • Performs regular tasks relating to the Automated Materials Handling System, including providing basic troubleshooting.
  • Participates in programming for patrons of all ages.
  • Helps to decorate, creating displays to enhance the atmosphere.
  • Sorts library materials and shelves library materials alphanumerically according to the Dewey decimal system.
  • Reads shelves to insure proper placement and order. Helps in weeding of library materials and assists the supervisor in collection development.
  • Helps repair materials using accepted methods or repair.
  • Provides library tours and programming for interested groups.
  • Keeps the library safe by addressing problem patron behavior on the spot or reporting it up the chain if necessary.
  • Communicates Library programs with community groups and or book talks
  • Attends regularly scheduled departmental and all-staff meetings, annual staff training day, and any additional mandatory meetings.
  • Maintains electronic and paper filing and record systems to provide easy access to records and information; provides retention of records as required by Department and County policies.
  • Other related work and special projects as assigned.
  • Other duties as assigned.

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITIES
This position has no fiscal responsibilities.
COUNTY ORGANIZATION DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Represents the Department and County to other County staff and members of the public.
  • Provides quality customer service to individuals needing directions or assistance.
  • Demonstrates the organization's Core Values and adherence to the Ethics policy.

SUPERVISORY RELATIONSHIPS:
Works under general supervision on some office assignments but works independently performing recurring duties in accordance with established procedures. This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
Qualifications
JOB QUALIFICATIONS - KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of:
  • Administrative policies and procedures of the County.
  • Pertinent Federal, State, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
  • Current office practices and procedures.
  • Computer software consistent for this position.

Skill in:
  • Analyzing complex administrative information and issues, defining problems and evaluating alternatives, and recommending methods, procedures, and techniques for resolution of issues.
  • Organizational and time management to prioritize duties to accomplish a high volume of work product while adapting to constant changes in priority.
  • Applying judgment and discretion in resolving problems and interpreting policies and regulations.

Ability to:
  • Quickly learn and put to use new skills and knowledge brought about by rapidly changing information and /or technology.
  • Perform detailed work accurately and independently in compliance with stringent time limits requiring minimal direction and supervision.
  • Establish and maintain accurate records of assigned activities and operations.
  • Interpret and implement local policies and procedures; written instructions, general correspondence; Federal, State, and local regulations.
  • Perform mathematical calculations required of this position.
  • Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
  • Establish and maintain accurate records of assigned activities and operations.
  • Analyze facts and to exercise sound judgment in arriving at conclusions.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
  • Maintain confidentiality and discretion regarding business-related files, reports, and conversations, within State and Federal statutes.
  • Work the allocated hours of the position.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Work is performed in a typical indoor office setting; and is mostly sedentary with periods of mobility and light physical activity. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Level of responsibility subjects the incumbent to moderate stress due to interruptions.
PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS/ACTIVITIES:
  • This work requires the occasional exertion of up to 25 pounds of force; work regularly requires sitting, frequently requires standing, speaking or hearing, using hands to finger, handle or feel and repetitive motions and occasionally requires walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling and reaching with hands and arms.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close, distance and peripheral vision; depth perception; and the ability to adjust focus. Will spend a large amount of time viewing a computer screen.
  • Vocal communication and normal hearing are required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word.
  • Acceptable verbal and conversation skills to effectively communicate with others via the phone, at meetings and to greet and assist visitors.
  • Work requires preparing and analyzing written or computer data and observing general surroundings and activities.
  • Work is primarily in an office setting.
  • Use and normal maintenance of office machines, (copier, computer, printer, etc.).
  • Frequent use of phone handset and repetitive use of hand & fingers to operate office equipment, use computer keyboard & computer mouse and to perform other office tasks.
  • Ability to recognize occupational hazards in work activities and take safety precautions.
  • Maintain mental capacity which allows the capability of making sound decisions and demonstrating intellectual capabilities.

The intent of this position description is to provide a representative summary of duties and responsibilities that will be required of positions given this title and is not a declaration of the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position. Employees may also be assigned job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.
Montgomery County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with the requirements of the Civil Rights Act of 1966 (Section 1981) and 1964 (Title VI, VII,) Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), Equal Pay Act (EPA) and the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-employment Rights Act (USERRA).
About Us
Montgomery County, Tennessee, is home to Clarksville, the state's fifth-largest city. Located just 40 miles from Nashville and within a day's drive of most major U.S. cities. The area offers a vibrant mix of history, innovation, and outdoor recreation with over 30 parks and trails like the scenic Clarksville Greenway.
Regularly named one of Money Magazine's, "Best Places to Live," the community features a low cost of living, a growing downtown, and strong environmental initiatives, including new solar farms.
Home to Fort Campbell, Austin Peay State University, and major employers like Google, LG, Hankook, and Amazon, Montgomery County is a hub of opportunity. The County Government operates 40+ departments and offers excellent benefits, including TCRS retirement plans.
Join us and see why Montgomery County is a top choice for living and working in Middle Tennessee.

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