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Collection Development Librarian Jobs in Wisconsin

The Milwaukee Public Library (MPL) offers a dynamic, innovative work environment where each ... Essential Functions Collection Development & Maintenance Execute complex collection development and ...

New

Our library is a heavily used and deeply valued community resource, consistently ranking among the ... Collection Development Serve as an active contributor to collection development, bringing knowledge ...

Librarians perform basic bibliographic, reference, readers' advisory, and programming work and ... Collection Development & Maintenance: Contribute to collection development by recommending ...

... collection development and purchasing of materials and supplies; monitor program budgets, report and record program statistics. Librarians also evaluate library collections, services, programs and ...

$70K/yr

The Children's Librarian, under the overall supervision of the Branch Manager, works as part of the ... collection development, and individual/group programming. The schedule is 35 hours per week and ...

Part-time Librarian

New Berlin, WI · On-site

$29.68 - $37.63/hr

... collection development and purchasing of materials and supplies; monitor program budgets, report and record program statistics. Librarians also evaluate library collections, services, programs and ...

Library Director

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Our Community The North Shore Library is a vibrant community destination serving the four ... collection development, facilities management, and community relations. The successful candidate ...

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Collection Development Librarian information

See Wisconsin salary details

$42.9K

$68.6K

$95.4K

How much do collection development librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for collection development librarian in Wisconsin is $68,577.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $78,200.00 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 Wisconsin? For Collection Development Librarian jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Collection Development Librarian jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Collection Development Librarian jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Collection Development Librarian jobs in WI? For Collection Development Librarian jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
LIBRARIAN III

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Posted 2 days ago


City Of Milwaukee rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

498th of 663 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Introduction The City of Milwaukee is proud to employ a workforce dedicated to delivering exceptional service to its residents. If you have a passion for being a part of an inclusive team of public servants, please consider the following opportunity. The Milwaukee Public Library (MPL) offers a dynamic, innovative work environment where each employee contributes to making the Library the best Third Place possible.

Inspiration starts here - we help people read, learn, and connect. Purpose The Librarian III performs selection and collection management of materials in assigned areas of the Milwaukee Public Library. The Acquisitions, Serials, Interlibrary Loan, and Collections unit selects, purchases, and receives materials for Milwaukee Public Library, in both physical and electronic formats.

The unit supports subscriptions, processing, and collection management work in MPL's collections. In addition, the unit manages system-wide access to interlibrary loan services. Essential Functions Collection Development & Maintenance Execute complex collection development and maintenance.

Use data, tools, and resources to make selection and deselection decisions in alignment with MPL guidelines, policies, and procedures. Maintain a deep understanding of the target audience's range of developmental stages, informational needs, research areas, and recreational interests to support collection development, management, and library customer service. Apply professional principles and MPL collection standards when assigning resources and recommendations with consideration to security, access, discoverability, preservation, and customer service.

Select, organize, and classify multiple formats of library materials. Stay abreast of collection trends, developments, and best practices, including intellectual freedom, innovation, and customer trends. Manage and coordinate complex collection development and maintenance projects and related budgets.

System Support Coordinate and guide system-wide collection-related projects, tasks, and duties. Train and guide collection work across the MPL System, including using best practices for collection displays and exhibits. Communicate priorities, significant trends, and developments in assigned collection areas to the MPL colleagues and beyond in alignment with the MPL as a Resource Library.

Serve and lead on designated library committees, prioritizing the library's vision, mission, and strategic goals related to MPL collections. Lead, attend and contribute to the growth and development of the MPL and the library profession through conferences and professional associations. Assess, review, and select materials for the Interlibrary Loan acquisition.

Collaborate with the Branch and the Central departmental staff and managers on collection development and management. Identify collection needs in service areas, using multiple data points and system-wide collaboration. Community Relations & Outreach Develop and maintain a thorough knowledge of the Milwaukee community.

Present on collections to promote library resources to staff, patrons, partners, and organizations. Represent the library in informational, educational, and cultural activities of the community, and serve on committees. Recommend resources for special projects and initiatives.

Collaborate with reference and programming staff to support community engagement related to assigned collection areas. Reference, Readers' Advisory and Customer Service Assist adults, young adults, and children in the selection and location of materials and information, and in the use of the online catalog, electronic databases, the Internet, microform, and other indexes, bibliographies, and reference tools. Proactively assist the public with self-service resources, including checkout, photocopiers, printers, computers, software applications, e-commerce, online registration, and holds-pickup.

Conduct thorough reference interviews and readers' advisory services to determine resource interests and facilitate appropriate recommendations Train and advise other librarians and reference staff in reference interviews and readers' advisory services. Alert patrons to the community's organizations and functions. Maintain current knowledge of reference tools and emerging information technology resources and trends in public library services.

Curate resource lists and bibliographies in multimodal formats for staff and public dissemination, including writing reviews. Curate and implement displays for assigned collection management areas. Evaluate direct patron acquisition requests for collection consideration, applying MPL standards of collection policy and customer service.

Provide readers' advisory service to adults and youth using appropriate reference tools and personal and professional knowledge of readers, collections, genres, popular and newsworthy titles. We welcome qualified individuals with disabilities who are interested in employment and will make reasonable accommodations during the hiring process in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, as amended by the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) of 2008. Conditions of Employment The Librarian III must be willing and able to do the following: Work Monday-Friday with occasional evening and weekend hours as assigned.

Provide emergency assistance at locations through the MPL system as needed. Lift and move items weighing up to 10 pounds occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Stand, walk, climb stepstools, crouch, and reach.

Minimum Requirements 1. Master's degree in library and information studies or equivalent from an ALA-accredited program. 2.

Three years of progressively responsible, post-master's in library science (MLS) librarian experience in a public library NOTICE: Please do not attach your academic transcripts to your employment application. The hiring department will verify candidates' education as part of the background screening process prior to extending any job offers. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Other Characteristics TECHNICAL Knowledge of library science, including a thorough understanding of the reference interview, library media learning principles, and instructional methods.

Knowledge of library programming and collection development. Knowledge of library public relations and marketing techniques Knowledge of modern library organization, procedures, policies, mission, goals, and services. Knowledge of publishing trends, acquisition operations, vendors, and the ability to manage multiple materials budgets.

Knowledge of developmental stages, educational, recreational, and professional needs and interests of target audiences in alignment with assigned collection areas. Knowledge of reference tools, emerging information technology resources and trends in public library services Knowledge of collection trends, developments and best practices within library collections, including intellectual freedom, innovation, and customer trends. Skill in using online library catalogs, electronic databases, the Internet, microform, indexes, bibliographies, and reference tools.

Above average competence in delivery of computer services (i.e.: word processing, spreadsheets, databases, use of on-line reference resources, Internet use, etc.). Ability to learn to use and troubleshoot library equipment. Ability to read and interpret a wide array of materials, from printed books and periodicals to electronic resources

Ability to work effectively with library users and interpret their reading and informational needs. Ability to critically evaluate library materials from a historical and contemporary perspective to make collection decisions in support of MPL's role as a resource library. Ability to train and evaluate the work of others.

Ability to lead and provide support to less experienced librarian staff. Ability to develop and maintain thorough knowledge of the Milwaukee Community and MPL System. Skill in the development of in-depth knowledge of contemporary literature.

COMMUNICATION AND INTERPERSONAL Excellent customer service skills; ability to de-escalate and resolve patron challenges tactfully and satisfactorily. Ability to work effectively and respectfully with coworkers and library users of various cultural, educational, and economic backgrounds, ages, and literacy levels, with an understanding of the social responsibilities of an urban public library in an era of information access and technological change. Ability to foster and contribute to an environment of inclusion wherein all are treated respectfully, are valued for their strengths, and feel that they can safely express themselves.

Ability to train and oversee the work of others engaged in daily library operations. Ability to provide effective training to librarians, paraprofessionals, and support staff. Written communication skills to prepare correspondence, reports, book reviews, and marketing materials.

Verbal communication skills to share information with a wide range of patrons. Presentation skills to perform library outreach, participate in media programs, and conduct formal programs to carry out the mission of the library. Ability to represent the library, its policies and programs, before a variety of community groups and agencies.

CRITICAL THINKING AND PROFESSIONALISM Ability to plan, organize, and manage multiple tasks and to adjust to changing priorities to meet deadlines. Ability to function effectively when working independently and as part of a team. Analytical and problem-solving skills; ability to make effective decisions and sound judgment.

Ability to learn new information quickly and conduct research. Ability to make quick and defensible decisions. Ability to exemplify professionalism, honesty, integrity, and proper stewardship of library resources.

Current Salary The current salary range (Pay Range 2IN) is $72,705 - $89,460 annually, and the resident incentive salary range for City of Milwaukee residents is $75,613 - $93,038 annually. Appointment to the position of Librarian III is normally at the beginning of the pay range. BENEFITS: The City of Milwaukee provides a comprehensive benefit program, which includes the following: Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) Defined Benefit Pension Plan 457 Deferred Compensation Plan Health and Dental Insurance Paid Parental Leave Comprehensive Wellness Program Onsite Clinic Services Onsite Employee Assistance Program Alternative Work Schedules Long Term Disability Insurance Group Life Insurance Tuition Benefits Paid Vacation 12 Paid Holidays Paid Sick Leave and other paid leaves Flexible Spending Arrangement Commuter Value Pass For full details of the benefits offered by the City of Milwaukee, please visit https://city.milwaukee.gov/der/benefits

Selection Process The Selection Process will be job-related and will consist of one or more of the following: an evaluation of education, experience, and/or responses to supplemental questions; a written or performance test, a structured interview, or other assessment methods. The Department of Employee Relations reserves the right to call only the most qualified candidates to structured interviews and performance examinations. Structured interviews may include written exercises.

Selection process component weights will be determined by further analysis of the job. INITIAL FILING DATE - The selection process will be held as soon as practical after the deadline listed above. Receipt of applications may be discontinued at any time after this date without prior notice.

However, recruitment may continue until the City's needs have been met. Qualified applicants will be notified of the date, time, and place of the selection process components. Unless otherwise required by law, the City of Milwaukee will not provide alternative dates or times for the selection process.

The applicant is responsible for attending all phases of the job selection process at the time and place designated by the City of Milwaukee. PORTFOLIO: Applicants who are referred to the Milwaukee Public Library for final consideration will be required to submit a portfolio prior to their interview of their professional librarian career. Portfolios should be approximately 10-15 pages in length and should cover Reference and Customer Service, Collection Development and Maintenance, Programming and Outreach, and System Support.

Each section should include examples and reflections that explain the significance of each in your career path as a professional librarian. Additional Information Applications and further information may be accessed by visiting https://www.jobapscloud.com/MIL/ If you would like assistance completing an application, please contact the Department of Employee Relations at (414) 286-3751 or staffinginfo@milwaukee.gov. The Department of Employee Relations is located at City Hall, 200 E

Wells St., Room 706, Milwaukee, WI 53202. Conclusion EEO Code 204 The City of Milwaukee values and encourages diversity and is an equal opportunity employer.


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