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Collection Development Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

William Paterson University

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES Collection Development: * Understanding the information needs of the library's users through surveys, feedback, and analysis of usage data to ensure collection development ...

State of Mississippi

Librarian

Jackson, MS · On-site

$40K - $41K/yr

MLC is seeking a Reference and Collection Development Librarian to provide reference service to our stakeholders, assist with collection development, and support the needs of public libraries through ...

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Collection Development Librarian information

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$42.5K

$67.9K

$94.5K

How much do collection development librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 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.

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Collection Development Librarian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Collection Development Librarian job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,941 per year, or $32.7 per hour.
Reference/Collection Development Librarian

Reference/Collection Development Librarian

Mississippi Valley State University

Itta Bena, MS

Other

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Position Information
Position Title Reference/Collection Development Librarian Job Description
The Reference Librarian is responsible to the Assistant Director and/or the Director of the Library for the provision of reference/research assistance in the use of the library's print and electronic resources. Specifically the Reference Librarian is responsible for participation in collection development, exercising leadership in issues related to the acquisition and licensing of electronic resources, providing general reference and research services, collaborating with other library departments in library activities essential to Public Services, participating in library assessment, serving as appointed on University committees, participating in library instruction via the library's User Access Education Program, promoting the reference department via the development of creative libguides, working in a team with other members of the library staff to provide quality and effective services for the students and faculty of MVSU, participating in professional development activities, maintaining awareness of changes that may occur in the department, having the ability to adapt to change in a complex environment, and contribute to team effort by assuming additional duties and responsibilities when necessary, and other duties assigned by the Assistant Director\Head of Public Services, the Director of the Library or the Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs.
Required Qualifications
ALA-accredited Master of Library Science (MLS)/MLIS degree; experience in reference services; demonstrated ability to establish goals, set reasonable periods for accomplishing tasks and effectively meet deadlines. Excellent interpersonal, written and oral communication skills. Knowledge of electronic database usage and current trends in information literacy; an academic background, library experience, and/or earned subject master's degree in addition to MLS/MLIS.
Preferred Qualifications
At least 2 years experience in an academic library. Experience with Sirsidynix Symphony ILS. Experience with Springshare products.
Physical Demands
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number SF875P Open Date 03/24/2026 Close Date 03/31/2027 Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions to Applicants
Please include 3 Letters of Recommendation with your application

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