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Public Library Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bloomfield Township

BTPL-Library Page

Bloomfield, MI · On-site

$13.78/hr

Bloomfield Township Public Library is seeking a professional and resourceful Library Page to support the Library's needs. Bloomfield Township Public Library is a Class 5 Library, with a service ...

City of Grand Rapids, MI

Library Custodian

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$19.70 - $21.30/hr

Grand Rapids Public Library, Main Library, 111 Library St NE, Grand Rapids, MI Job Type: Part-time Job Number: 961-0726 Department: Library Opening Date: 07/14/2026 Closing Date: 7/26/2026 11:59 PM ...

City of New Berlin, WI

Library Shelver

New Berlin, WI · On-site

$12/hr

New Berlin Public Library, 15105 Library Ln., WI Job Type: Part-time Job Number: 202600026 Department: Public Library Department Division: Library Opening Date: 07/15/2026 Closing Date: 7/31/2026 4 ...

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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 Jul 20, 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 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
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What are the most commonly searched types of Public Library jobs? The most popular types of Public Library jobs are:
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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
PT-Library Assistant at EVPL Central

PT-Library Assistant at EVPL Central

Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library

Evansville, IN

$16.61/hr

Part-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

WORKING AT EVANSVILLE VANDERBURGH PUBLIC LIBRARY

At Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (EVPL), we cultivate curiosity by creating wonder, and we envision communities united through shared exploration and understanding.

Bring your whole self to work each day and be authentically you. You bring a unique perspective and life view to the work we do for and with our community. As an EVPL employee, you should feel supported and empowered to think forward and to problem solve with your colleagues. At EVPL your voice, your lived experiences, and YOU matter! Each individual adds to the team as a whole, and every role makes a difference in how we impact Evansville and Vanderburgh County.

PT Library Assistant at EVPL Central

Starting Pay: $16.61 hour

Hours: 20 per week

Part-time benefits include personal business, sick pay, Holiday pay, and access to the on-site employee clinic.

Must be able to work during public all service hours. This is includes at least one evening weekly, regular Saturdays and quarterly Sundays.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Library Assistant is a guide to patrons coming to the library for the first time, and every time after. The Library Assistant assists with wayfinding related to facilities, services, resources, equipment, and technologies in the library and actively promotes EVPL and its services, programs, resources, and experts.

The Library Assistant explains library policies, circulates library materials, and issues library cards using the integrated library system, assists with library technology or patron questions, shelves materials, and assists in creating materials displays and/or programming efforts.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

In cooperation with EVPL colleagues, the Library Assistant advances the library's mission, vision, strategic priorities, and brand. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Employ critical thinking skills and good judgment to find solutions and opportunities that improve patrons' library experience.
  • Propose, plan, design, and conduct activities, programs, events, and services under the mentorship of a Librarian, Manager, or Library designee.
  • Interact with library patrons, colleagues, and community members across multiple points of service in a library facility, designated outreach/engagement locations, online or via telephone in a manner that contributes to a delightful library experience.
  • Collaborate with colleagues to ensure a welcoming, safe, and secure environment.
  • Assist and educate patrons over the phone or in-person in technology relating to library or personal use including computers, internet, eBooks or eReaders, hardware, software, digital catalog, digital accounts, scanners, printers or other various software, and accessing materials via the internet.
  • Manage library accounts, including establishing and deactivating library cards and handling fines, fees, and related transactions.
  • May act as a Person in Charge, opening and/or closing the library and making appropriate decisions supported by EVPL policies, training, and procedures.
  • Effectively communicate and interpret policies and procedures to library patrons.
  • Support materials management by facilitating materials check out/in, hold requests, selection and deselection and locating and shelving of materials as assigned.
  • Participate in special projects, or other duties, as assigned.

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