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Public Library Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Black Caucus of the American Library Association

NY · On-site

$70 - $75/hr

The Saugerties Public Library seeks enthusiastic qualified applicants for the position of Library Director. This is a full-time position (35 hours per week) offering a competitive salary, health ...

City of Duluth, MN

Library Services Manager

Duluth, MN · On-site

$105K - $138K/yr

Duluth Public Library, MN Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: H26070 Department: Property, Parks, & Libraries Division: Library Services Opening Date: 08/21/2026 Closing Date: 9/20/2026 11:59 PM Central ...

Michigan Library Association

Library Director

Dowagiac, MI · On-site

$58 - $62/hr

Salary: $58,000.00 - $62,000.00 Annually Public Library Located in rural Southwest Michigan, the Dowagiac District Library is a Class IV library serving the lively communities of the City of Dowagiac ...

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City of Claremont

Library Director

Claremont, NH · On-site

$63.01 - $101.48/hr

This leadership role is responsible for the overall management, operations, and strategic direction of the City's public library, ensuring high-quality services, programs, and resources for residents ...

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Public Library information

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$30.5K

$64.2K

$102K

How much do public library jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for public library in the United States is $64,190.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $78,000.00 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.

More about Public Library jobs

What cities are hiring for Public Library jobs?

Cities with the most Public Library job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Library jobs?

The most popular types of Public Library jobs are:

What states have the most Public Library jobs?

States with the most job openings for Public Library jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Public Library jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Library jobs are:

Public Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Library job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,190 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

LIBRARY DIRECTOR

Black Caucus of the American Library Association

NY • On-site

$70 - $75/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

The Saugerties Public Library seeks enthusiastic qualified applicants for the position of Library Director. This is a full-time position (35 hours per week) offering a competitive salary, health benefits, and enrollment in the New York State Local Retirement System. The Library Director shall be the executive and administrative officer of the library, acting on behalf of the Board and under its review and direction. The Library Director or his/her designee is the official spokesperson for the library

The Library Director oversees all aspects of library administration and operations including library finances, information systems and technology, buildings and grounds maintenance, human resources, library programs, collection development, public relations, and community outreach.

The Saugerties Public Library is a vibrant community resource serving a population of 19,393 residents in the Town and Village of Saugerties, and is a member of the Mid-Hudson Library System. This is a civil service position and applicants must possess the minimum qualifications for Library Director 1 in order to apply.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Plans and implements library programs for patrons of all ages.
  • Develops the library budget in coordination with the Finance Committee.
  • Prepares, distributes, and compiles all materials for board and committee meetings.
  • Maintains all business, financial, and personnel records for the library including filing all personnel actions with Ulster County Civil Service.
  • Assumes responsibility for the maintenance of computers and the automation system.
  • Applies for and administers grants.
  • Administers the expenditures of library funds and the collection of library revenues.
  • Recommends new services, policies, and personnel actions to the Board of Trustees.
  • Recommends appointments, transfers, promotions and dismissals.
  • Supervises the work of library employees.
  • Conducts staff training meetings.
  • Performs annual performance evaluations on all employees.
  • Administers the purchase of library materials.
  • Prepares state, local, and other statistical narrative reports as needed or required.
  • Oversees collection development.
  • Assumes responsibility for the development and maintenance of the local history collection.
  • Creates relevant reports through the library systems ILS.
  • Conducts studies and analysis of library operations.
  • Oversees cash handling.
  • Ensure that the building and grounds are properly maintained.
  • Designs and produces public relations and library instruction materials.
  • Represents the library before governmental agencies and community groups.
  • Supervises the maintenance of library property and recommends repairs, alterations, and new construction.
  • Keeps informed of professional developments through participation in professional organizations, system meetings, workshops, continuing education courses, and reading professional materials.
IDEAL QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Previous experience in library management.
  • High proficiency with library computer technology and electronic resources.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Experience working with volunteers and Friends group and a Board of Trustees.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with a Masters Degree in Library Science and two (2) years of professional full-time, or its part-time equivalent, experience in a library of recognized standing.
  • Special Requirement: Possession of a New York State Public Librarian’s professional certificate at time of appointment.

SALARY RANGE: $70,000-$75,000

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