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Academic Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The University Librarian supervises academic support services including the Academic Support Center (writing, academic skills, and statistics support), and the Office of Manuscript Preparation ...

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Academic Librarian information

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$31K

$65.2K

$102.5K

How much do academic librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 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.

Library - Reference Librarian PT

shu

Fairfield, CT โ€ข On-site

Part-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

Provides reference service to students, faculty, staff, and members of the community using tangible and digital resources and services on-site at the Ryan Matura Library, and to remote users through chat, e-mail, and other communications media.ย 

Principal Duties & Responsibilities

  • Provides reference service to students, faculty, staff, and the public individually or in groups tangible and digital resources and services.
  • Schedule includes primarily evening and weekend duties.
  • Assistsย library users in locating, evaluating, and using library resources and services in multiple formats.ย 
  • Participates with the Head of Reference and other professional staff in the discussion and formulation of library policies and procedures.
  • Performs other duties as directed; these may include:
    • Assisting library staff with special project;ย 
    • Supporting circulation operations and user engagement activities
    • Providing day-to-day guidance, training, and support to student employees.ย 

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, & Other Attributes

  • Masterโ€™s degree in library science or working towards a masterโ€™s degree in library science from an American Library Association accredited institution;
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively with a wide variety of print and electronic information resources.
  • Ability to provide individualized instruction and research assistance to users with varying levels of experience.
  • Strong interpersonal, communication, and customer service skills.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Commitment to providing welcoming, inclusive, and user-centered library services.
  • Experience providing reference assistance in an academic library preferred.

Unusual Working Conditions

Evening & weekend hours during the regular academic year