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Rural Library Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Librarian I-26402506

San Diego, CA · On-site

$69K - $93K/yr

June 2027 - 3.03% increase to base pay (3% Across-the-Board + 0.03% Market Adjustment) Employees in this job classification assigned to a Rural Library location may be eligible for a 5% premium. An ...

Community Library Specialist

CA · On-site

$35.97 - $42.43/hr

These positions provide library services for patrons of all ages in small, rural communities and support daily branch operations at the Stinson Beach Library or the Inverness Library. Community ...

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Rural Library information

See California salary details

$8

$15

$28

How much do rural library jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for rural library in California is $15.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.63 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What unique challenges might I face working in a rural library, and how can I prepare for them?

Working in a rural library often means serving a close-knit community with limited resources. You may find yourself wearing many hats, from managing collections to organizing outreach programs and providing tech support. Adapting to a smaller team structure requires flexibility and creativity in problem-solving. Building strong relationships with patrons and collaborating with local organizations are key for success. Emphasizing community engagement and being proactive in seeking grants or partnerships can help you address resource limitations effectively.

What is the difference between Rural Library vs Public Library Assistant?

AspectRural LibraryPublic Library Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require library certificationHigh school diploma; library certification optional but preferred
Work EnvironmentSmall, community-focused library in rural areasPublic library setting, often in urban or suburban areas
Employer & Industry UsageLocal government or community organizations in rural regionsPublic library systems across cities and towns
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Rural Library and Public Library Assistant roles share similar credentials and work environments, but differ mainly in location and community focus. Rural Library staff typically serve smaller, rural communities, while Public Library Assistants work in larger, urban or suburban public libraries. Both roles involve assisting patrons, managing collections, and supporting library operations, but their scope and community engagement may vary based on setting.

What is a rural library?

A rural library is a public library located in a small town or countryside area, serving residents who may have limited access to resources available in larger cities. These libraries provide essential services such as lending books, offering internet access, hosting community events, and supporting lifelong learning. They often act as community hubs, helping to bridge the digital divide and offering educational opportunities for all ages in rural communities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Rural Librarian, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rural Librarian, you need strong organizational skills, a knowledge of library science (often supported by a degree or certification), and experience in community engagement. Familiarity with library management systems, digital cataloging tools, and basic IT troubleshooting is typically required. Excellent communication, adaptability, and outreach abilities help build relationships and serve diverse community needs. These skills ensure effective library operations, promote literacy, and foster a welcoming environment in resource-limited rural settings.
What are popular job titles related to Rural Library jobs in California? For Rural Library jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Rural Library jobs? Cities in California with the most Rural Library job openings:
Librarian I-26402506

Librarian I-26402506

County of San Diego

San Diego, CA • On-site

$69K - $93K/yr

Other

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


County Of San Luis Obispo rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

579th of 692 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Summary One of San Diego County's greatest assets is its diverse, high tech, vast, and phenomenal Library system. San Diego County Library is now hiring for position of LIBRARIAN I Interviews will take place the week of August 24, 2026. This position is eligible for appointment at step 1, $69,264.00 annually

County employees are subject to the County Promotion Rule for Step Placement in Accordance with Compensation Ordinance 1.3.5. Future Salary Increases ** June 2027 - 3.03% increase to base pay (3% Across-the-Board + 0.03% Market Adjustment) Employees in this job classification assigned to a Rural Library location may be eligible for a 5% premium. An Employee's Principal Work Location must be one of the following to be eligible: Alpine, Borrego Springs, Campo, Crest, Descanso, Fallbrook, Fletcher Hills, Jacumba, Julian, Lincoln Acres, Pine Valley, Potrero, Ramona, or Valley Center

"We celebrate our communities and dedicate our passion and expertise to help you create your own story." San Diego County Library (SDCL) is among the top 10 national and international public library providers of eBooks. With 33 branches, two bookmobiles, five kiosks, four outreach vans, countless special events, and a team of enthusiastic and creative staff, SDCL offers San Diego County residents a physical and virtual hub of education, entertainment, and culture. Every year, five million customers take advantage of SDCL's 16,000 programs and services, checking out more than 11 million items, including books, CDs, DVDs, and more

SDCL is committed to helping the community thrive and grow. Did you know... We promote learning, exploration, and discovery for fulfillment and personal growth - we offer various programs for children and adults..

We champion civic engagement and support individuals in shaping the future of their communities - every library branch becomes a polling location and/or a mail ballot drop-off location. We design opportunities to experience and enjoy culture and the arts as a creator and participant - community feedback and partnerships develop programming that reflects the diverse cultures that we serve. Please visit the San Diego County Library for more information about the San Diego County Library.

As a Librarian I, you will: Keep up with current of library trends Provides customers with reference services, information, and reader guidance Plan, create, promote and present library programs and events Provide supervision to Library Technicians, volunteers, and hourly workers. Please read the Librarian I job description for more information. Hiring Process and Timeline:i.

Job Offer and Background Process begins: Shortly after the interviews. Note: Current County employees may be excluded from additional background screening. ii.

Pre-employment Medical Screening: Approximately 3 days following successful background investigation results. iii. Anticipated Start Date: Start date will be based upon successful completion of medical screening or other mutually agreed upon date.

If you are not selected for this interview process, you may have the opportunity to compete for future vacancies. Minimum Qualifications A master's degree in Library Science (MLS) from an accredited U.S. college or university, or a certified foreign studies equivalency; OR, A bachelor's degree from an accredited U.S

college or university, or certified foreign studies equivalency, supplemented by a minimum of nine (9) semester or twelve (12) quarter units of graduate library science coursework from an accredited college or university, AND one (1) year of full-time paraprofessional library experience. Notes: Candidates must provide proof of educational requirements at the time of application. A master's degree in Library Science from a college or university accredited by the American Library Association is highly desirable.

Experience working in a public library is also highly desirable. Blind Applicant Screening The Department of Human Resources removes personally identifiable information from all new recruitments. This practice, called Blind Applicant Screening, will hide a candidate's personal information that could influence or bias a hiring decision.

Personal information includes name, phone number, address, gender, age and race. This process will help contribute to a fair and equitable selection process leading to a more diverse and inclusive workforce. The most highly qualified candidates, based on the evaluation results, will be referred for an interview.

Be sure to include your experience in meeting the minimum requirements in both the Work Experience section and the Supplemental Questionnaire section of the Application. Conditions of Employment As part of the County of San Diego's pre-employment process, prospective candidates will undergo a background check (including fingerprinting) and a pre-employment medical screening prior to beginning County employment. Additional types of background investigations may be conducted based on the job-related activities of the position.

Current County employees may be excluded from this process. Evaluation The names of qualified applicants will be placed on a six (6) month employment list based upon scores received during the evaluation of information contained in their employment application and supplemental questionnaire. Accommodation Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions of the job, on a case-by-case basis.

As an employer of over 19,000 employees, the County of San Diego is an organization committed to veteran hiring, retention, and professional development. We recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by our veterans and value the unique expertise and leadership qualities they bring to our workforce. We strive to provide veterans with the resources and tools necessary to maximize their employment opportunities, and to assist veterans with their transition into civilian life by applying the valuable skills, knowledge and training acquired in service to positions and career paths at all levels within our large organization.

Click on the resource links below to learn more about how the County of San Diego supports its veterans. Veteran's Preference Policy The County of San Diego offers preferential credits for military service to assist qualified applicants in transitioning from military to civilian careers with the County of San Diego. Please read the Veteran's Preference Policy for additional information.

Military Skills Translator Do you need assistance translating your military experience into civilian experience. This tool can help. Please read the Military Skills Translator to access the tool.

Strategic Plan The County of San Diego and its employees embrace the vision of: a just, sustainable, and resilient future for all. Our values include: integrity, equity, access, belonging, excellence, and sustainability. Each of which are infused throughout our operations.

While also embracing a mission of strengthening our communities with innovative, inclusive, and data driven services through a skilled and supported workforce. Click here for more information on our Strategic Plan (sandiegocounty.gov) Disaster Service Worker Under California Government Code Sections 3100 - 3109, public employees are designated as disaster service workers. The term "public employees" includes all persons employed by the state or anycounty, city, state agency, or public district

Disaster service workers are required to participate in such disaster service activities as may be assigned to them by their employer or by law. Diversity & Inclusion The County of San Diego is committed to valuing diversity and practicing inclusion because our diverse workforce is our greatest asset and our customers are our number one priority.


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