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Academic Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Librarian

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

This is a 12-month exempt administrative position in academic affairs reporting to the Provost and Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs. The University Librarian is a non-tenure-eligible ...

Librarian

River Grove, IL · On-site

$27/hr

Posting Details Posting Summary Posting Number S00585P Position Title Librarian Position Type Hourly Department Academic Success Essential Function Essential Function: * The Reference Librarian is ...

The ideal candidate will possess a strong attention to detail, excellent organizational and communication skills, and a willingness to learn and grow within an academic library environment. Training ...

The ideal candidate will possess a strong attention to detail, excellent organizational and communication skills, and a willingness to learn and grow within an academic library environment. Training ...

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Academic Librarian information

See salary details

$31K

$65.2K

$102.5K

How much do academic librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for academic librarian in the United States is $65,193.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $75,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an academic librarian?

Academic librarians are information professionals who work in college, university, or other post-secondary institution libraries. They assist students, faculty, and researchers by managing library resources, guiding users in finding and evaluating information, and supporting research and teaching activities. Their responsibilities often include collection development, information literacy instruction, and digital resource management. Academic librarians play a critical role in supporting the academic mission of their institutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an academic librarian, and why are they important?

To excel as an Academic Librarian, you need expertise in information science, research support, and collection development, typically backed by a Master of Library Science (MLS) or equivalent degree. Familiarity with library management systems (LMS), digital databases, and citation tools is essential for managing resources and supporting users. Strong communication, instructional abilities, and a collaborative mindset help librarians teach information literacy and work effectively with students and faculty. These skills ensure that the library remains a vital academic resource, supporting research, teaching, and learning within the institution.

What is the difference between Academic Librarian vs Public Librarian?

AspectAcademic LibrarianPublic Librarian
Required CredentialsMaster's in Library Science (MLS) or Library and Information Science (MLIS)Master's in Library Science (MLS) or Library and Information Science (MLIS)
Work EnvironmentUniversities, colleges, academic institutionsPublic libraries, community centers
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, academiaPublic sector, community services
Common Search/ComparisonAcademic Librarian vs Public Librarian

Both Academic Librarians and Public Librarians typically hold MLS or MLIS degrees and work in library settings. Academic Librarians focus on supporting students and faculty in educational institutions, managing specialized collections, and assisting with research. Public Librarians serve the general community, providing access to a wide range of resources, literacy programs, and community outreach. While their credentials are similar, their work environments and primary audiences differ significantly.

How do academic librarians typically collaborate with faculty and students to support research and learning?

Academic librarians play a crucial role in supporting the research and educational needs of both faculty and students. They often work closely with faculty to develop course-specific research guides, deliver instructional sessions on information literacy, and recommend resources tailored to curriculum needs. Additionally, librarians provide one-on-one research consultations for students and may participate in campus committees to ensure that library services align with academic goals. This collaborative environment fosters strong relationships across departments and helps librarians stay attuned to evolving academic trends.

What does an academic librarian do?

An academic librarian typically works for a university or college. They assist students and staff at the school library perform research, use the catalog, and find the right resources. Additional duties of an academic librarian often include consulting with people to help them to identify, analyze, and fulfill their research needs, keeping updated on technological advancements in this field, and collaborating with computer specialists, classroom faculty, and instructional developers. Other responsibilities involve implementing, planning, and administering electronic database design, computer-based systems, and websites for the school.

What cities are hiring for Academic Librarian jobs? Cities with the most Academic Librarian job openings:
What states have the most Academic Librarian jobs? States with the most job openings for Academic Librarian jobs include:
Infographic showing various Academic Librarian job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 59% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 75% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,193 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

$29 - $35/hr

Part-time

PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description

LAC Federal is seeking a Reference Librarian to provide high-quality reference, research assistance, and instructional support to students, faculty, staff, and community patrons through online platforms and at the library service desk. In this role, the Reference Librarian will guide users in effectively navigating library resources, including the online catalog, electronic databases, and print and non-print collections.


Additionally, the Reference Librarian may be responsible for other assigned duties such as gathering and analyzing usage statistics, delivering library instruction sessions, conducting student research consultations, and performing occasional circulation desk functions. Schedule flexibility is required, as the candidate must be available for hours of operation during the fall semester, including the library's evening hours. On rare occasions, if the building needs to close but services are still needed, the employee is expected to work remotely.


Employment Type: Temporary - Part Time/20 hours per week. 

Dates of Employment August 31, 2026 - October 2, 2026


Schedule: Schedule may adjust depending on semester schedule:

Monday - Thursday, 4:00pm-8:00pm

Friday, 1:00pm-5:00pm


NOTE: Monday, September 7 - Library will be closed.


Responsibilities

  • Deliver reference and research services to library users both in-person and virtually.
  • Assist patrons in the effective use of library technologies, databases, and research tools.
  • Provide individualized research support to students through consultations.
  • Conduct instructional sessions for classes, faculty, and other library users to promote information literacy and enhance research skills.
  • Maintain knowledge of library collections, both print and digital, to support user needs.
  • Capture and report library usage statistics as directed.
  • Collaborate with library staff to enhance services and contribute to special projects as assigned, such as creating and/or updating library guides and instructional resources.
  • Support circulation functions as needed.
  • Stay current with trends and emerging technologies related to academic library reference services.
  • Participate in professional development activities to maintain and improve knowledge and skills relevant to the role.

Requirements

  • Minimum of one (1) year of recent experience providing reference services in a public, research, or academic library setting.
  • Proficiency with electronic information systems, research databases, and Microsoft Office applications.
  • Familiarity with technologies used in academic libraries for reference and instructional purposes.
  • Strong knowledge of library practices and procedures, including reference and instructional services.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and responsibilities in a dynamic service environment.
  • Strong commitment to customer service and student success.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Academic library experience.
  • Experience with Primo Discovery Service by Ex Libris strongly preferred.
  • Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or equivalent from an ALA-accredited program.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while providing reference, research, and circulation services at a public service desk and conducting virtual or in-person consultations. 
  • Ability to use a computer and other office technology for prolonged periods, including frequent keyboarding, viewing computer screens, utilizing library databases, preparing instructional materials, and participating in virtual meetings or remote work as required. 
  • Ability to move throughout the library to assist patrons, retrieve and shelve library materials, transport items weighing up to 20 pounds, and perform occasional bending, reaching, and lifting associated with library operations.

Part-Time: 

  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)

EEO Statement

The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Nothing in this job specification restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. 

Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. 

To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. 

Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.