1

Collection Development Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Collection Development and Library Services * Partner with JBI Library patrons to oversee collection development and ensure the collection reflects the diverse interests and needs of patrons.

Performs library Collection Development and Collection Management tasks including but not limited to * Selecting library materials for acquisition - physical and electronic monographic and serials ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Collection Development Librarian information

See salary details

$42.5K

$67.9K

$94.5K

How much do collection development librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for collection development librarian in the United States is $67,941.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Collection Development Librarian, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Collection Development Librarian, you need expertise in collection analysis, knowledge of publishing trends, and a master's degree in library science (MLS/MLIS). Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), collection management software, and usage data analysis tools is commonly required. Strong negotiation, analytical thinking, and communication skills help in vendor relations and meeting diverse community needs. These abilities ensure the library's collections remain relevant, balanced, and responsive to users' evolving interests.

What Is the Role of a Collection Development Librarian?

The role of a collection development librarian is to manage, update, and develop collections of books (both print and digital), digital media, and the reference database at a library. As a collection development librarian, you handle the selection, purchase, and tracking of new materials and keep documents on all cataloging details. Your responsibilities include collaborating with staff members, managing a budget, and making recommendations on new resources. Other duties include researching statistics and reporting national trends, technologies, and best practices for data sharing, especially electronic sources. You may also assist the public with finding books or media and teach patrons how to use databases and digital resources. Some positions require managing other employees to ensure they catalog resources properly.

What does a Collection Development Librarian do?

A Collection Development Librarian is responsible for selecting, acquiring, and managing library materials to meet the needs of the library's users. They analyze usage data, review feedback, and stay current with trends to ensure the collection is relevant and diverse. Their duties may also include budgeting for new materials, weeding outdated resources, and collaborating with other librarians and stakeholders. Ultimately, they help shape the library’s offerings to align with institutional goals and community interests.

How does a Collection Development Librarian collaborate with other library staff and stakeholders to ensure the collection meets community needs?

Collection Development Librarians work closely with reference librarians, subject specialists, and user groups to assess current collection strengths and gaps. They often participate in regular meetings to gather input on patron needs, review usage statistics, and discuss potential acquisitions. Additionally, they may conduct surveys or community outreach to align collection priorities with evolving interests. This collaborative approach ensures the library’s collection remains relevant, balanced, and responsive to its users.

What is the difference between Collection Development Librarian vs Technical Services Librarian?

AspectCollection Development LibrarianTechnical Services Librarian
Primary FocusSelecting and acquiring library materialsProcessing, cataloging, and maintaining library resources
Required CredentialsMaster's in Library Science (MLS) or equivalentMaster's in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special librariesPublic, academic, or special libraries
Key SkillsCollection analysis, vendor negotiation, knowledge of resourcesCataloging, classification, metadata management

The Collection Development Librarian focuses on selecting and acquiring library materials to meet user needs, while the Technical Services Librarian handles processing, cataloging, and maintaining those resources. Both roles require a Master's in Library Science and often work in similar environments, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

What cities are hiring for Collection Development Librarian jobs? Cities with the most Collection Development Librarian job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Collection Development Librarian jobs? The most popular types of Collection Development Librarian jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Collection Development Librarian jobs? The top employers for Collection Development Librarian jobs are:
What states have the most Collection Development Librarian jobs? States with the most job openings for Collection Development Librarian jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Collection Development Librarian jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Collection Development Librarian jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Collection Development Librarian jobs? For Collection Development Librarian jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Collection Development Librarian job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,941 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

Collection Development Librarian

Meridian Free Library District

Meridian, ID • On-site

$22.90 - $27.60/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Description:
  • Open To: Internal and External Candidates
  • Department: Material Services, Admin Division
  • Work Location: District Admin Office - Near Overland and Eagle Rd
  • Weekly Hours: 40 hours per week (Full-Time)
  • Position Type: Regular (Not Temporary) and Non-Exempt (Hourly)
  • Hiring Range: 22.90-27.60 per hour, DOE
  • Benefits: Eligible for Full-Time Benefits
  • Posting Date: Tuesday, June 16th 2026
  • Application Deadline: Tuesday, June 30th 2026 at 5:00 pm
  • Targeted Position Start-Date: Early August 2026
  • Job Description: Included below and available here.

Announcement:

Ensure District collections remain current, relevant, and responsive by selecting and maintaining materials that support community interests and needs.

  • Select and maintain the District’s collections across multiple formats
  • Analyze community trends and circulation data to make informed collection decisions
  • Manage collection budgets and respond to patron purchase requests
  • Evaluate collections and identify materials for replacement, addition, withdrawal
  • Visit library branches to assess collections and collaborate with staff

*************************************************************************************************************

Position Summary

The Collection Development Librarian performs selection, deselection, and assessment of the Libraries’ collections and users’ needs in assigned areas and within budget. Reports to and works with the Material Services Manager in conjunction with Branch and Department Managers, or designated representatives, to respond to the needs of the public. Work is performedindependently under general supervision, with execution of sound judgment related to use of taxpayer dollars.


The majority of work hours are spent selecting and deselecting materials, and assessing collections.


Duties and Responsibilities

Essential


Collection Development

Analyzes community and library data to build a solid collection of current adult, young adult, and children’s materials from a variety of sources including journals, media, publishers, and distributors. Monitors and fulfills patron requests for materials to the extent possible and communicates disposition to patrons and staff. The Collection Development Librarian builds a collection which reflects the diversity of the District in accordance with the Collection Development Policy. Analyzes and manages the existing collections to determine materials needed for each library branch and identifies materials that need to be replaced or added. Oversees collection maintenance of assigned collections in collaboration with library staff. This position requires

regular visits to library branches for hands-on work with collections.


Promotion

The Collection Development Librarian promotes collection internally and externally in collaboration with public service staff and may include utilizing local media, vendor marketing tools, displays, book lists, online utilities, social media and readers advisory.


Customer Service

Provides high quality internal customer service to other staff and vendors, and is responsive to patron purchase requests. Actively promotes respect for diversity and creates a welcoming environment. Arrives at work location on time, ready to interact with other staff.


Research and Reports

Prepares reports to analyze collection effectiveness and diversity. Tracks the outcomes of collection-based strategic goals. The Collection Development Librarian monitors and manages collection budgets and tracks collection usage; prepares related presentations and statistical reports. Maintains good attendance and timekeeping records.


Marginal

Explores new collection development tools to identify areas that will contribute to streamlining processes. Reviews digital services and uses various digital services to test digital services. Coordinates with cataloging and acquisition staff on procedures and collection updates. Assists with development and adjustments of annual materials budget. Is professionally active; identifies

and participates in professional development opportunities. The Collection Development Librarian is knowledgeable of library trends, developments and new technology and contributes ideas and suggestions to colleagues and library staff members.


Accepts and directs the work of volunteers and/or coordinates workflow in a team environment; provides collection development training for staff involved in selection and collection maintenance.


Participates in committee groups as assigned by the District to demonstrate our commitment to a culture of inclusivity, collaboration, and professional development. This may include being a lead for a committee, subcommittee, working group, or project team.


Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

Minimum Qualifications


Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Provides exemplary customer service and maintains a favorable public image of the library. The incumbent has a desire to work in a public service role. Has excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively and appropriately with people from diverse backgrounds, including youth, families, volunteers, and coworkers. Builds and maintains positive working

relationships with individuals at all levels of the organization and fosters positive partnerships with outside organizations. Must be able to work alone at a location as well as remotely.


Proficient with standard office applications (including Microsoft Office and Google applications), online library automation system and online searching. Understands the role of technology in library services and is proficient in that technology. Ability to learn and adapt to new software and equipment technologies. Proficient in the principles of project management. Able to oversee multiple large-scale projects and effectively manage time.


Requires a working knowledge of a variety of consumer electronics and proficiency with vendor databases. Good understanding of public libraries and library services and the principles of library classification and collection development.


The job requires persuading or gaining cooperation and acceptance of ideas and/or the resolution and/or negotiation of conflicts; the job has accountability for ensuring customer satisfaction District-wide. The incumbent understands and communicates knowledge of customers’ priorities and needs.


Experience: 1-3 years of professional library work experience.


Education: Master’s in Library Science or Master’s in Library Information Science from an American

Library Association (ALA) accredited institution (enrolled or completed) or equivalent experience.


Training, Licenses, or Certifications: Course work in, or direct experience with, collection development responsibilities.


Supervisory Responsibility: None.


Preferred Qualifications: 2 or more years of public library experience and bilingual, preferably Spanish-English, Russian-English or other languages. Desired personal attributes include an awareness of the entire community, a sense of humor, a passion for engaging people from all backgrounds and all ages, and a positive and enthusiastic approach to providing library services.


Working Conditions


Physical Requirements: The job requires the employee to sit (frequently); occasionally stand, twist/turn, maintain flexibility, and speak clearly; perform fine manual dexterity movements; constantly see, hear, and listen; seldom stoop/bend, kneel, walk, squat, crouch, and balance. The job also requires the employee to lift and carry up to 30 lbs; reach at, above, and below shoulder

height; grasp objects weighing 30 lbs.; push and pull objects weighing 50 lbs.


Mental Requirements: The job requires the employee to read, write, perform clerical duties, comprehend and use perception, and perform basic and complex math. Requires independence in decision-making and a comfort level with autonomy.


Technology, Equipment, and Devices: The job requires the employee to regularly operate and exhibit proficiency with computers and commonly used Microsoft applications, vendor applications, library systems and databases, and email and cloud environments. The job requires the employee to operate and occasionally troubleshoot general office equipment as well as work with a sorting

machine, book carts, and small tools and labels. This position may require operation of a vehicle on behalf of the District.


Work Environment: The job requires the employee to be subjected to repetition, working alone, working remotely, working around others, verbal contact with others, face-to-face contact, inside environments, and moving objects.


Expected Hours of Work: The job requires the majority of work to be performed during regular daytime business hours Monday-Friday. Position schedule and work location are subject to change at the discretion of management to support business needs.


Expected travel: May travel occasionally between library branches and for meetings, training, and conferences.


Disclaimers: The above job description is not intended as, nor should it be construed as, exhaustive of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with this job. All employees may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed. Management reserves the right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this position at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.


Meridian Library District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Hiring and employment practices are done without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or disability. In addition, preference in employment may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.


Adopted by the Meridian Library Board of Trustees n.d.

Revised and Board Approved 03/18/2026

  • Open To: Internal and External Candidates
  • Department: Material Services, Admin Division
  • Work Location: District Admin Office - Near Overland and Eagle Rd
  • Weekly Hours: 40 hours per week (Full-Time)
  • Position Type: Regular (Not Temporary) and Non-Exempt (Hourly)
  • Hiring Range: 22.90-27.60 per hour, DOE
  • Benefits: Eligible for Full-Time Benefits
  • Posting Date: Tuesday, June 16th 2026
  • Application Deadline: Tuesday, June 30th 2026 at 5:00 pm
  • Targeted Position Start-Date: Early August 2026
  • Job Description: Included below and available here.