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Public Library Jobs in Wellesley, MA (NOW HIRING)

A strong commitment to public service required. Physical requirements/work environment (The ... the library's ability to deliver services, be costly to correct and cause significant adverse ...

Library Assistant

Quincy, MA ยท On-site

$30/hr

As a Library Assistant, you'll play a vital part in organizing, preparing, and packaging materials for digitization and storage, ensuring the smooth transition of an extensive collection to its new ...

New

Showing results 21-40

Public Library information

See Wellesley, MA salary details

$33.5K

$70.4K

$111.9K

How much do public library jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for public library in Wellesley, MA is $70,410.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,300.00 and $85,600.00 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 Wellesley, MA?

For Public Library jobs in Wellesley, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Public Library jobs in Wellesley, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Library jobs in Wellesley, MA are:

What cities near Wellesley, MA are hiring for Public Library jobs?

Cities near Wellesley, MA with the most Public Library job openings:

Infographic showing various Public Library job openings in Wellesley, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $70,410 per year, or $33.9 per hour.

Senior Substitute (Intermittent)

City Of Cambridge Massachusetts

Cambridge, MA โ€ข On-site

$24.03/hr

Temporary

Posted 25 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Provide substitute coverage for all departments and branches of the Library.

  • Perform functions related to circulation, including check-outs, check-ins, reserves, renewals, and fine assessment and collection.

  • Assist patrons in locating books and materials, using library resources, and monitoring public areas of the library.


Job description

ABOUT THE LIBRARY:ย ย 

At the Cambridge Public Library, we welcome all, inspire minds and empowerย community. We support a Cambridge where everyone has equitable opportunities to learn, people live their best lives, and democracy thrives. Since 1889, the Cambridge Public Library has been a place of learning and community where all are welcome to expand their horizons. Through the Main Library and six neighborhood branches - Boudreau, Central Square, Collins, O'Connell, O'Neill, and Valente - theย Libraryย operates as a unified system to offer free library services and programs to residents.ย 

ABOUT THE ROLE:

Reporting to Library Administration, Seniorย Substitutesย provideย outstanding customer service to members of the publicย and support to library staff through shiftย coverage at the Main Library and all branches.ย ย 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:ย 

Specific duties include but are not limited to the following:ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย 

  • Provide substitute coverage for allย departments and branches of theย Library.
  • Perform functions related to circulation: check-outs, check-ins, reserves, renewals, fine assessment and collection, and similar related tasks.
  • Provide outstanding and engaging customer service to the publicย and colleagues.
  • Assistย patronsย in locating books and materials andย using libraryย resources, referring them to other staff members as needed.ย 
  • Shelve materials and read shelves.
  • Processย deliveries;ย move and unload bins and check in items.ย 
  • Monitor public areas of the library; communicate and apply library policies and procedures.
  • Any other duties required for the good of the library.ย 

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.ย 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:ย 

Education and Experience:ย ย 

  • High school diploma or high school equivalency required.ย 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:ย 

  • Strong customer service skillsย 
  • Ability and willingness to be a strong team player and treat colleagues with courtesy and respectย 
  • Ability to exhibit a positive attitude in all situations
  • Ability to handle the unexpected and stay calm and professional under pressure
  • Working knowledge of basic public library concepts and resources
  • Ability to follow oral and written instructions accurately and thoroughly
  • Tact. Patience. Maturity.
  • The City of Cambridge's workforce, like the community it serves, is diverse.ย ย  Applicants must have the ability to work and interact effectively with individuals and groups with a variety of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies.ย 

PREFERREDย REQUIREMENTS:ย 

  • Aย Bachelor'sย degree or coursework beyond the high school level isย desirable.ย 

  • Fluency in a language in addition to Englishย and prior library experienceย is desirable.ย 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:ย Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.Ability to operate standard office equipment; transport carts of materials which can weigh more than 100 pounds across a level floor or on a ramp; carry baskets of materials weighing up to 30 pounds; pay attention to details and concentrate on tasks despite frequent interruptions and moderate noise levels; communicate effectively and exchange accurate information with coworkers and members of the public read and organize written material; place library materials on shelves or carts which can be located at floor level or overhead.ย 

WORK ENVIRONMENT:ย The job occurs primarily in library locations. Works in assigned area, including public spaces, office areas, work rooms, and training rooms as needed. May be exposed to moderate to high levels of noise, stress, and frequent interruptions.ย ย 

SCHEDULE:ย This is a substitute position without regular hours. Average ofย 10 hours per weekย withinย the following hours: Monday-Thursday 8:30-9, Friday 8:30-6, and Saturday 8:30-5.ย Shifts and total hours will vary week-to-week based onย operational needs.ย Candidates must be very flexibleย and able to work at all library locations.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:ย 

Please upload the below documents to complete your application:ย ย 

  • Resumeย 
  • Cover Letterย 
Employment Type: Temporary