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Collection Development Librarian Jobs in Kentucky

$90K - $150K/yr

... collection, analysis, reporting, grant development, and evidence-generation activities that ... libraries, educators, researchers, and implementation partners while supporting onboarding, pilot ...

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Collection Development Librarian information

See Kentucky salary details

$36.9K

$59K

$82.1K

How much do collection development librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for collection development librarian in Kentucky is $59,009.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $67,300.00 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 are popular job titles related to Collection Development Librarian jobs in Kentucky? For Collection Development Librarian jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Collection Development Librarian jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Collection Development Librarian jobs in Kentucky are:
What are popular job titles related to Collection Development Librarian jobs in KY? For Collection Development Librarian jobs in KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Collection Development Librarian job openings in Kentucky 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 $59,009 per year, or $28.4 per hour.
Director of Library Services (Manager III- Library Services)

Director of Library Services (Manager III- Library Services)

Kentucky Community and Technical College System

Lexington, KY • On-site

$5.3K - $6.6K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Director of Library Services (Manager III- Library Services)
Job no: 496456
Work type: Full-time
Location: Lexington, KY
Categories: Staff
Title: Director of Library Services (Manager III- Library Services)
Salary Range: $5,309- $6,637
Contract Term Length: 12 Months
Standard Hours: 37.5
Work Location: On-Site
FLSA Status: Exempt
College: Bluegrass Community & Technical College
Campus Location: Bluegrass C&TC - Newtown Pike Campus
Department: Academics, & Student Services
Total Rewards
Bluegrass Community & Technical College offers a competitive benefits package and an attractive work environment that supports excellence, innovation, and creativity, including:
  • Exceptional health care, vision, and dental coverage for you and your family
  • Tuition reimbursement/waiver for you, your spouse, and dependents
  • 403(b) retirement plan: a 5% employee contribution receives a 10% employer match
  • Vacation/Sick Time
  • Work-Life Balance
  • 9.5 Paid Holidays
  • 2 Weeks Institutional Closing Pay (Last 2 weeks of December) for qualifying positions
  • Employee Assistance Program

Job Summary
Provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for library services at the college, ensuring responsive, innovative, and student-centered support for teaching, learning, and research. The Director supervises personnel, manages resources and budgets, and advances information literacy initiatives while maintaining an active presence in the library through regular direct service as a practicing librarian.
Reports to the Associate Dean of Academics.
Job Duties:
  • Leads strategic planning and continuous innovation in library services, developing and submitting proposals for service enhancements based on data-informed needs assessments and usage projections.
  • Supervises all full-time and part-time library personnel; oversees staffing plans, professional development, and service coverage in coordination with operational staff; ensures appropriate training and technical support.
  • Serves as the primary liaison between the library and college leadership, fostering clear communication and alignment with institutional priorities.
  • Ensures the design and delivery of information literacy instruction for students, faculty, and staff in multiple formats (course-integrated, workshops, and individual support).
  • Oversees the timely and accurate acquisition, cataloging, processing, and circulation of library resources in accordance with professional standards.
  • Develops and manages the library budget; prepares budget requests aligned with operational needs and ensures fiscal responsibility within approved parameters.
  • Leads collection development in collaboration with faculty and staff, selecting and evaluating resources in accordance with approved guidelines and promoting awareness and use of library collections.
  • Provides instruction and support related to library technologies and digital resources.
  • Implements ongoing assessment and evaluation of library services, using findings to inform planning, decision-making, and continuous improvement.
  • Ensures effective operation of the integrated library system (e.g., Alma) and the preservation and accessibility of essential records and materials.
  • Maintains compliance with applicable federal, state, system, and institutional policies, including accurate and timely reporting requirements.
  • Maintains current knowledge of library science, emerging technologies, and best practices to support high-quality services.
  • Participates in professional organizations and maintains appropriate memberships to support professional engagement and institutional visibility.
  • Works regularly in the library-both physical and virtual environments-providing direct reference, class visits, campus-wide library instruction, and user support as a practicing librarian to remain connected to user needs and service delivery.
  • Represents the college on the KCTCS Library Services Peer Team and serves on institutional and system committees as assigned.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned in support of the library and institutional priorities

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or Library Science from an ALA-accredited program or equivalent and at least three years of professional experience in a library setting and two years supervisory experience.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with Ex Libris systems (Alma/Primo), particularly in an academic library setting.
  • Experience in marketing or promoting library resources and services.
  • Experience working in a community college or similar open-access institution.
  • Demonstrated success working with people with a wide range of experience and a strong commitment to creating welcoming, accessible library services for all community members.
  • Evidence of initiative in developing innovative, forward-looking library services or programs.
  • Active engagement with the mission of comprehensive community and technical colleges.
  • Record of professional involvement (e.g., committees, associations, or collaborative initiatives).
  • Demonstrated personal and professional integrity.

Additional Skills Requested:
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, including the ability to present information to a range of audiences.
  • Strong organizational, problem-solving, and analytical skills, including the ability to define problems, collect data, and draw valid conclusions.
  • Demonstrated commitment to customer service and user-centered library practices.
  • Ability to work collaboratively and effectively as part of a team.
  • Proficiency with standard office and information technologies, including email, word processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentation software, and internet-based tools for communication and reporting.

Employee Rights - Employee Polygraph Protection Act
Equal Opportunity Employer - The Kentucky Community and Technical College System is an equal educational and employment opportunity institution.
Advertised: 15 May 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 14 Jul 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
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