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Austintexas

About This Position Assistant Director, Austin Public Library Purpose: Under the direction of the Director of Libraries, this position is accountable for the effective delivery of public library ...

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How much do public library jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 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 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 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 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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, and 16% Part Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,190 per year, or $30.9 per hour.
Librarian III - Phoenix Public Library

Librarian III - Phoenix Public Library

Phoenix Police Department

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$76.63K - $124.80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

City Of Phoenix rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 75 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

187th of 642 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

ABOUT THIS POSITION
The Phoenix Public Library (PPL) serves a diverse multiethnic clientele of over 4.8 million people, with a central library and 16 branches. The library offers collections in multiple languages, a full range of cutting-edge electronic resources and customer focused public services. PPL is a large system seeking motivated candidates to advance their career opportunities through a pathway designed for upward mobility. We offer a variety of development opportunities for supervisors through leadership and mentor programs. Join this innovative team today!
The PPL is looking for a Librarian III to supervise the operation of a branch library, or a designated program within a division, including directing the work of Librarians II, Librarians I, Library Assistants, Library Circulation Attendants, Library Clerks, Library Pages, and Municipal Security Guards performing technical, administrative, and clerical assignments.
Responsibilities include:
  • Leading and coordinating one or more of the systemwide library programs; including formulated plans, goals, and procedures.
  • Managing neighborhood and community libraries ranging in size from 6,500-16,300 sq. ft.
  • Directing the work of staff ranging from 12-25 librarians, paraprofessionals, circulation, clerical, and security members.
  • Ensuring excellent library service to customers, including oversight of in-house and outreach programming and community partnerships.

IDEAL CANDIDATE
  • Commitment to promoting a positive work environment through focusing on exceptional customer service to internal and external customers.
  • Ability to maximize specialized skill sets by developing assigned projects.

SALARY
Pay Range: $76,627.20 to $124,800 annually.
Hiring Range: $76,627.20 to $102,668.80 annually.
Pay Range Explanation:
  • Pay range is the entire compensation range for the position classification.
  • Hiring range is an estimate of where you can receive an offer. The actual salary offer will carefully consider a wide range of factors, including your skills, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, training, and internal equity.
Internal Only: Please understand that this is pay grade 065. If selected, your salary offer will be based on the applicable promotion or demotion worksheet in accordance with the City Pay Ordinance.
  • Promotions occur when the last two digits of the pay grade increase.
  • Demotions occur when the last two digits of the pay grade decrease.
  • Lateral transfers occur when there is no change to the last two digits of the pay grade.
  • When there is a change in the first digit of the pay grade, there may also be a change to your classification or unit.
Your job classification can be found in eCHRIS > Personal Details under your name, located in the top left section of the page.
The pay grade and classification/unit of your current position may be found by looking up your job title on the job description page .
BENEFITS
A comprehensive benefits package is offered which includes:
  • Traditional pension with employer and employee contributions, click here for more details: Pension Information
  • 401(a) and 457 plans with employer contributions
  • Choice of generous medical HMO, PPO, or HSA/HDHP plans
  • Medical enrollment includes a monthly $150 City contribution to a Post-Employment Health Plan
  • Wellness incentive of up to $720 annually
  • Dental, vision, and life insurance options
  • Employer paid long-term disability
  • Free Bus/light rail pass
  • Tuition reimbursement program up to $6,500 per year
  • Paid time off includes 13.5 paid holidays, 12 vacation days, and 15 sick days and personal leave days
  • Paid Parental Leave for eligible employees up to 480 hours (12 weeks) of paid leave for the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child during a 12-month period
  • Federal Student Loan Forgiveness offered through Savi
For more details, visit: Unit 007 Benefits
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Master's degree in library science from an American Library Association (ALA) accredited institution.
  • Three years of experience in professional library work.
  • Including:
    • One year of experience performing the full range of advanced, professional library work (or at the level of Librarian II).
    • AND One year of experience in subject or technical field for which responsible - progressively responsible library experience.
    • AND One year of supervisory experience.
  • All finalists for positions are subject to a criminal background check applicable to the department or position.
  • Some positions require the use of personal or City vehicles on City business. Individuals must be physically capable of operating the vehicles safely, possess a valid driver's license and have an acceptable driving record. Use of a personal vehicle for City business will be prohibited if the employee is not authorized to drive a City vehicle or if the employee does not have personal insurance coverage.
  • For information regarding pre-screening and driving positions, click here .
  • The City job description can be found here .
Work and Environmental Conditions Requirements:
  • Work shifts and locations in this classification may be subject to change and are assigned based on length of service or seniority.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
The minimum qualifications listed above, plus:
  • Three or more years of experience programming, presenting, outreach, or teaching for children, teens, and adults.
Experience in:
  • Presenting to, conducting outreach to, or teaching low-income, diverse communities and/or older or vulnerable populations.
  • Customer service in a professional library setting.

RECRUITMENT DATES
Recruitment closes June 1, 2026. All materials must be received by 11:59 p.m. on this date.
This is a position-based recruitment and will not result in any ongoing eligibility list. This recruitment and any selection processes resulting from this recruitment may be used to fill other related vacancies within the organization now or in the near future.
HOW TO APPLY
Apply online by completing the required information and attaching, as one document, your cover letter and resume. Please include your experience as it relates to the qualifications stated above. Only the highest qualified may be posted to the eligible to hire list. The results of the resume screening process will be sent to your primary email address.
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
  • Job interviews may be held by video or audio conference.
  • If you are in need of computer resources, click here for free options.
  • Arizona at Work has frequent classes to help with resume writing, interviewing skills, and general career guidance. Click here for more information.
  • Explore other Employment Opportunities with the City of Phoenix .
  • Subscribe to receive e-mail notifications about new employment opportunities.
  • If you require assistance at any stage of the application process due to an accessibility issue, please contact the Human Resources Department by phone at (602) 495-5700 or by text at (800) 367-8939 . You may also fill out and submit a Reasonable Accommodation Request Form .

REFERENCE
Librarian III, JC:30230, ID# 67151, 5/19/26, USM, AJ, Benefits:007
Building the Phoenix of tomorrow.
#DoWorkThatMakesPhoenixWork
City of Phoenix is an equal opportunity employer. AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service alumni who meet the required qualifications are encouraged to apply.

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