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Collection Development Librarian Jobs in Kentucky

Museum Intern

Harrodsburg, KY · On-site

$1.5K/wk

... collection of original 19th century buildings and is the largest National Historic Landmark in ... This internship is a career development opportunity designed to give college students or recent ...

... collection of original 19th century buildings and is the largest National Historic Landmark in ... This internship is a career development opportunity designed to give college students or recent ...

... records collection, and reviews records for excepted information. Prepares and reviews outgoing ... library of standard forms and templates. • Review and assist in updating policies and KCAB rules ...

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 25, 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,009 per year, or $28.4 per hour.
Library Supervisor-Community

Library Supervisor-Community

Louisville Metro Government

Louisville, KY • On-site

$59K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Louisville Metro Government rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

274th of 705 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description Summary Objective The purpose of this position is to plan and supervise the day-to-day operation of a community library branch. This class works independently, under limited supervision, reporting major activities through periodic meetings. Examples of Duties ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS The essential functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class.

Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the class as necessary. Supervises, directs, and evaluates assigned staff, processing employee concerns and problems, directing work, counseling, disciplining, and completing employee performance appraisals. Coordinates, assigns and reviews work and establishes work schedules; maintains standards; monitors status of work in progress; inspects completed work assignments; answers questions; gives advice and direction as needed.

Represents the library to community groups. Reviews and evaluates resource materials, and selects and orders books, periodicals, audiovisual and other materials. Plans, coordinates, and participates in library and community programs.

Prepares and generates reports and statistical data. Provides technical assistance and instruction, and answers questions regarding the use of the library, collections, and services. Recruits, trains, schedules and supervises volunteers.

Requests building maintenance, equipment repair, and custodial services. Coordinates collection, development, programming, and resource sharing activities. Receives and attempts to resolve complaints from the public.

Provides customer service, outreach and technology assistance to the public. Oversees collection, development, programming, and resource sharing activities. Conducts group in-service and individual training.

Assesses staffing and physical resource needs of assigned area or location. Supervises daily service plans and operations including staff development, oversight of general maintenance and security, and supporting staff in utilizing proactive customer service strategies. Evaluates library material collections using information from users, potential users and standard collection maintenance tools.

Assists staff with resolving patron concerns and complaints. Works with branch or library leadership to set and monitor progress of branch goals and strategies. Performs related work as assigned.

Minimum Requirements MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: Master's Degree in Library Science or related discipline. Two (2) years of supervisory experience OTHER MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Must hold and maintain a Professional certification in the State of Kentucky (KRS 171.250) within 30 days of employment. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Physical demands refer to the requirements for physical exertion and coordination of limb and body movement

Performs sedentary work that involves walking or standing some of the time and involves exerting up to 10 pounds of force on a regular and recurring basis or sustained keyboard operations. UNAVOIDABLE HAZARDS (WORK ENVIRONMENT): Unavoidable hazards refer to the job conditions that may lead to injury or health hazards even though precautions have been taken. None.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE Louisville Metro Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires the Louisville Metro Government to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

STANDARD CLAUSES May be required to work nights, weekends, holidays and emergencies (man-made or natural) to meet the business needs of Louisville Metro Government. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of essential functions and responsibilities that are required of an employee for this job. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

ESSENTIAL SAFETY FUNCTIONS It is the responsibility of each employee to comply with established policies, procedures and safe work practices. Each employee must follow safety training and instructions provided by their supervisor. Each employee must also properly wear and maintain all personal protective equipment required for their job.

Finally, each employee must immediately report any unsafe work practices or unsafe conditions as well as any on-the-job injury or illnesses. Every manager/supervisor is responsible for enforcing all safety rules and regulations. In addition, they are responsible for ensuring that a safe work environment is maintained, safe work practices are followed and employees are properly trained.


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