Library Careers
All hiring for library positions is handled through the City of Madison. Information regarding open positions and printable job application forms are available at the city's Human Resources website. Below you'll find an overview of the library jobs that become available most often and an accompanying job description. More detailed descriptions are available as positions become open (see Employment Opportunities).
Librarian
This is a professional position requiring an MLS degree from an ALA-accredited program or related library experience. Librarians are responsible for reference, programming, collection development and other professional duties depending on the library location. Librarians are hired on an as-needed basis, and tests are given once applications for an open position have been acquired. Positions are part- or full-time, with prorated benefits.
Library Assistant
Library assistants are para-professional staff members responsible for reference desk work, circulation work, and other duties as assigned. To be a library assistant, applicants must have demonstrated professional experience. Library assistants are hired on an as-needed basis, and tests may be given once applications for an open position have been acquired. Positions are part- or full-time, with prorated benefits.
Clerk/Typist
Clerks are responsible for circulation desk work and require familiarity with computers and keyboarding, as well as customer service skills. Clerks are hired on an as-needed basis, and tests are given once applications for an open position have been acquired. Positions are part- or full-time, with prorated benefits.
Page
Library Pages are typically responsible for shelving and circulation desk work. Applicants for Page positions must be at least 16 years old. These positions are part-time, entry-level positions with minimal benefits.
Interns
The library hires interns on a seasonal basis, some paid and others unpaid. Read below for information about the specific intern opportunities offered at Madison Public Library.
Library Studies Internship
Want to gain valuable experience working in an urban public library? Madison Public Library accepts 1-5 practicum students per semester from the UW-Madison Information School as well as distance education programs in Library Studies if students are based in Madison, WI. Contact your school's advisor or the library for more information.
AASPIRE Internship
This paid internship offers students the opportunity to gain 8 weeks of experience working in a variety of different city agencies, including Madison Public Library. Applications are taken February and March of each year, with placement occurring May-August.
Wanda Fullmore Internship
The Wanda Fullmore Youth Internship Program allows high school students the opportunity to learn about careers in city government through a paid summer internship. Applications are taken each spring through Common Wealth Development, with summer placements June-August.