What Is a Library Manager and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

A library manager oversees the daily operations of a library. Typical job duties involve coordinating programs and services, ensuring employees and patrons follow library policies, managing the budget, updating library websites, and setting long-term objectives to promote growth. To pursue a career as a library manager, you need a bachelor’s degree in library science, although many library managers also earn a master’s degree. Other qualifications include prior management experience, strong analytical and research skills, and familiarity with all library materials and processes, including books, magazines, and digital resources.

If you want to start a career as a library manager, you need a master’s degree from an American Library Association-accredited school. Other qualifications for a library manager are a teacher’s certification for public school positions. Other certification or licensing requirements may vary by state. You also need to meet additional educational requirements for a job in a special library, such as a medical library. Excellent research and technical skills are essential for staying current with the literature and innovations in library science. Strong interpersonal skills are also necessary for interacting with staff members and patrons.