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African Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The New York Public Library

$55K/yr

The Jean Blackwell Hutson Research and Reference Division seeks a collaborative and enthusiastic Reference and African Studies Librarian ( Librarian II) to provide excellent public service in the ...

Howard

Prints and Photographs Librarian

Library, PA

$75K - $85K/yr

Subject specialty in African American and/or African Diasporic history and culture MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS : * Master's degree from an accredited institution in Library and or Information Science.

Barnes Foundation

$65K/yr

Postdoctoral Research Fellow in African Art Philadelphia, PA, US 9 days ago Requisition ID: 1488 ... Travels to area museums and libraries to consult primary and secondary sources. * Meets quarterly ...

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African Librarian information

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$31K

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$102.5K

How much do african librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for african 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 African librarian?

African Librarians are professionals who manage, organize, and provide access to library resources and services within African contexts or for African studies collections. They may work in public, academic, school, or special libraries, and are often responsible for preserving and promoting African literature, history, and culture. African Librarians also support research, literacy, and information needs of diverse communities by curating relevant materials, facilitating programs, and leveraging technology to enhance access. Their role is vital for safeguarding cultural heritage and advancing educational opportunities across the continent.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an African librarian?

To thrive as an African Librarian, you need a solid background in library and information science, often supported by a relevant degree or diploma and familiarity with local and international cataloguing standards. Proficiency in library management systems, digital archiving tools, and information retrieval databases is typically required. Strong communication, cultural sensitivity, and organizational skills are vital for engaging diverse communities and managing varied collections. These skills ensure effective information access, preservation of local heritage, and responsive service to patrons across different regions.

What are some common challenges African librarians face in managing both physical and digital collections?

African Librarians often navigate unique challenges, such as limited funding for resources, varying levels of digital infrastructure, and the need to preserve local languages and cultural materials. Balancing the acquisition and maintenance of print materials with the integration of digital technologies requires adaptability and creative problem-solving. Additionally, librarians frequently collaborate with educators, community leaders, and IT professionals to expand access and support user needs across diverse and sometimes under-resourced communities.

What is the difference between African Librarian vs University Librarian?

AspectAfrican LibrarianUniversity Librarian
CredentialsLibrary science degree, relevant certificationsLibrary science degree, often with advanced qualifications
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special libraries in AfricaAcademic institutions, universities worldwide
Employer & IndustryLibraries, educational institutions in AfricaUniversities, research institutions globally
Search & ComparisonOften compared for library roles in AfricaCompared for academic library leadership

While both roles involve managing library resources, an African Librarian typically works within libraries across Africa, focusing on public or academic services. A University Librarian usually holds a higher administrative position within university settings worldwide, overseeing academic collections and research support. The key differences lie in their work environment, scope, and regional focus.

What are popular job titles related to African Librarian jobs?

For African Librarian jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various African Librarian job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,193 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

Reference Librarian (Reference and African Studies)

The New York Public Library
Libraries and Archives ‱ 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about The New York Public Libraryexternal

$55K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

New York Public Library rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description
Overview

The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture located in Harlem, New York, is a research unit of The New York Public Library system.  It is recognized as one of the leading institutions focusing exclusively on African-American, African Diaspora, and African experiences. Begun with the collections of Arturo Alfonso Schomburg more than 85 years ago, the Schomburg has collected, preserved, and provided access to materials documenting black life in America and worldwide.  Today, the Schomburg continues to serve the community not just as a center and a library, but also as a space that encourages lifelong education and exploration.
The Jean Blackwell Hutson Research and Reference Division seeks a collaborative and enthusiastic Reference and African Studies Librarian ( Librarian II) to provide excellent public service in the form of reference work, collection development, library instruction, and works with colleagues across the Schomburg Center to assure an optimal experience for all visitors to the Library. 
Librarians start at $55,027 per year and are eligible in 12 months for an increased salary of $60,574 based on successful job performance.

Key Responsibilities
Under the direction of the Associate Chief Librarian, specific responsibilities include:
  • Provide onsite and remote reference services, using print and electronic resources
  • Participate in outreach activities such as class instructions, group presentations and tours
  • Teach and develop public classes, in-person and through remote platforms such as GoogleMeet and Zoom
  • Update and create content for web pages, research guides and training materials using software such as Drupal, LibGuides and Google Suite
  • Promote the collections through blogs, social media and small exhibitions
  • Participate in collection development in the area of African Studies by helping to select new materials, and working with vendors providing African materials
  •  Perform original and copy cataloging for the library’s collections from across the African diaspora in multiple formats and multiple languages
  • Maintain a personal program of continuous education and professional development. 
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Education, Experience & Skills
Required Education & Experience
  • ALA accredited Master’s degree in Library and Information Studies
  • Public Librarian’s Professional Certificate issued by the State of New York
  • Subject area expertise or educational background in any of the following: Africana Studies or African American Studies. 
Required Skills
  • ALA-accredited Master’s degree in Library and Information Studies
  • Knowledge of the history, politics, economics, literatures and cultures of Sub-Saharan Africa
  • Strong public service ethic
  • Experience providing reference and research services including use of online catalogs, databases and internet information sources
  • Demonstrated ability in standard cataloging practices
  • Must be collaborative, service-oriented, and interested in the application of new technologies to library services
  • Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills, including demonstrated ability to communicate with a diverse community
  • Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Highly flexible with ability to thrive in a fast-paced and continually changing environment.
  • Strong computer and other related technology skills, including MS Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Google applications, and PCs


More...
Please Note: Effective August 2, 2021, absent a qualifying exception for medical or religious reasons, newly hired employees of the New York Public Library must present proof of receipt of a COVID-19 vaccination and may not begin employment at the Library until 14 days after their receipt of their second dose of either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines or 14 days after their first dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.  Newly hired employees who need additional time to receive their vaccination prior to their start date may request an adjournment of their start date with their hiring manager.  The Library will consider such requests on a case by case basis, depending upon the Library’s operational needs, among other factors.  The Library will further consider exemptions for prospective employees who cannot become vaccinated due to a qualifying medical condition or a sincerely held religious belief or practice.  Candidates who receive a conditional offer of employment and who seek a medical or religious exemption to the Library’s vaccination policy should contact hrservicecenter@nypl.org for instructions on how to submit the required information for the evaluation of their exemption request.

Core Values
All team members are expected and encouraged to embody the NYPL Core Values:
  • Be Helpful to patrons and colleagues
  • Be Resourceful in solving problems 
  • Be Curious in all aspects of your work
Physical Duties
  • Limited physical effort is required
  • Light lifting up to 15lbs required
  • May require travel within NYC
  • Sitting and standing for periods of time
  • Daily use of a computer
Physical Required?
No
Union/Non Union
Union 1930
Schedule
  • 35 hours per week to be scheduled during regular building hours
  • Evenings and alternating Saturdays are required
  • Schedule subject to change


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About New York Public Library

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The New York Public Library is a free provider of education and information for the people of New York and beyond. With 92 locations--including research and branch libraries--throughout the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island, the Library offers free materials, computer access, classes, exhibitions, programming and more to everyone from toddlers to scholars, and has seen record numbers of attendance and circulation in recent years. The New York Public Library serves more than 18 million patrons who come through its doors annually and millions more around the globe who use its resources at www.nypl.org.

Industry

Libraries and archives

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

1895

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