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Academic Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

State of South Carolina

Head Librarian

Cheraw, SC

Preferred Qualifications Knowledge of modern academic library administration, procedures, and services. Knowledge of applicable rules and regulations regarding library administration. Knowledge of ...

Xavier University

Medical Librarian

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

At least 2 years of experience in health sciences librarianship, academic library services, or equivalent experience supporting medical education. * Demonstrated experience performing advanced ...

State of South Carolina

Head Librarian

Cheraw, SC · On-site

Preferred Qualifications Knowledge of modern academic library administration, procedures, and services. Knowledge of applicable rules and regulations regarding library administration. Knowledge of ...

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Academic Librarian information

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How much do academic librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 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 are academic librarians?

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.

More about Academic Librarian jobs
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:
What job categories do people searching Academic Librarian jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Academic Librarian jobs are:
Academic Librarian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Academic Librarian job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,193 per year, or $31.3 per hour.
Online Reference & Instruction Librarian

Online Reference & Instruction Librarian

Bowie State University

State University, AR • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Job Posting:
JR100911 Online Reference & Instruction Librarian (Open)
Department:
Library, JM
Position Type:
Non-Regular Fixed Term (Fixed Term)
Open Date:
05-19-2025
Close Date:
$60,000 - $65,000
Job Description:
The Online Reference and Instructional Librarian provides Instruction and research assistance to both online and on-campus students, faculty, and staff by creating online tutorials, self-guided library instruction modules, holding one-on-one research meetings, and purchasing materials.
Works independently under the direct supervision/collaboration of the Dean of the Library. An important part of the position is supporting the mission of the University and the Library in advancing academic excellence and student success goals for the distance learning community.
Responsibilities:
Distance Services
  • Provides and promotes library support services to all online students, staff, and faculty.
  • Develops and maintains library online presence, online technologies, and instructional materials for online education.

Research/Instructional Services
  • Assists patrons with reference questions, research sessions, and with using and accessing Library tools and information resources.
  • Provides research project consultations with on-campus and online faculty and students.
  • Coordinates and conducts online and face-to-face instructional programs/sessions to promote and ensure library assessment, collection development, and other library services.

Collections Management
  • Oversees all aspects of Online Technical Services, including acquisitions, serials, cataloging, and collection development.
  • Collaborates with faculty and staff to develop collections and resources to support on-campus and online learning programs.
  • Coordinates the development of electronic resources, including electronic databases, e-journals, e-books, and emerging technologies.
  • Prepares monthly summary, statistical and evaluative reports, of all activities.
  • Serves as a library liaison to the online programs of the university, providing recommendations for purchases and resources.
  • Participates as an active member of the Bowie State University faculty.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Minimum three years of professional experience in an academic or research library.
  • Minimum two years of experience directly assisting public, academic, or research library users.
  • Demonstrated ability to instruct residential and online university students in the use of library resources, both electronic and print.
  • Strong commitment to information literacy, customer service, and support of the academic and research needs of students, faculty, and staff.
  • Knowledge of online databases, electronic resources, and integrated library systems (ILS) as applied to the academic library setting.
  • Experience preferred as an embedded librarian, instructional designer, or help desk technician in learning management systems.
  • Experience preferred in developing online tutorials.
  • Proven team player in a highly collaborative environment.
  • Advanced proficiency in subject classification of materials in all formats and the Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Meticulous attention to detail, efficiency, and thoroughness.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with various academic constituencies.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work in a collaborative environment.
  • Proven initiative and self-direction.

Conditions of Employment:
  • Must be available to work evenings and weekends.

Additional Job Information:
Bowie State University shall not discriminate against any individual on the basis of race, color, religion, age, ancestry or national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, marital status or veteran status. All policies, programs, and activities of Bowie State University are and shall be in conformity with all pertinent Federal and state laws of nondiscrimination including, but not limited to: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Equal Pay Act of 1963, the Age Discrimination Act, Sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Federal Executive Order No. 11375, and Article 49B of the Annotated Code of Maryland. This commitment applies in all areas and embraces faculty, staff, and students.
Equal opportunity of access to academic and related programs shall be extended to all persons. Bowie State University shall have as its firm objective equal opportunity in recruitment and hiring, rate of pay, all other promotions, training, retention and dismissals, for all employees and applicants for employment. The University will stress equal access for employees and applicants for employment to all programs and services provided by the University both on and off campus. The University will also provide equal opportunity and an atmosphere of nondiscrimination with respect to women and members of minority groups in all its operations. In addition, the University shall promote equal opportunity and equal treatment through a positive and continuing Affirmative Action Program.
The University makes, and will continue to make, reasonable accommodations to promote the employment of qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans, unless such accommodations would impose an undue hardship on the University's business.
In addition, employees and applicants will not be subjected to harassment, intimidation, threats, coercion, or discrimination because they have engaged in, or may have engaged in, activities such as filing a complaint, assisting or participating in an investigation, compliance review or hearing, or opposing any act or practice made unlawful, or exercising any other right protected by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended or the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, as amended.

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