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Collection Development Librarian Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

The librarian will also provide reference, readers' advisory and collection development services. This position requires an ALA accredited M.L.S. with excellent oral and written communication skills ...

Digital Literacy Librarian

NJ · On-site

$72K - $81K/yr

... collection development, and strategic planning as requested by the Library Director * Work professionally and cooperatively within the Bunn Library, the School, and the broader Lawrenceville ...

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Fashion Design Director

Norristown, PA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Present seasonal concepts and collection direction to executive leadership. Product Development ... Maintain organization of design files, print libraries, and development assets. * Improve design ...

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Collection Development Librarian information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$42.9K

$68.6K

$95.4K

How much do collection development librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for collection development librarian in Philadelphia, PA is $68,558.00, 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 the most commonly searched types of Collection Development Librarian jobs in Philadelphia, PA? The most popular types of Collection Development Librarian jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:
What are popular job titles related to Collection Development Librarian jobs in Philadelphia, PA? For Collection Development Librarian jobs in Philadelphia, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Collection Development Librarian jobs? Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Collection Development Librarian job openings:
Infographic showing various Collection Development Librarian job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,558 per year, or $33 per hour.
Librarian

$28.31/hr

Other

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Summary The Henrietta Hankin Branch, Chester Springs has an opening for a Part Time Librarian in the Reference Department. This position is responsible for serving patrons in a high-volume, fast-paced library. The librarian assuming this position will be responsible for planning and presenting programs for adults and developing and leading library programs with outside presenters.

The librarian will also provide reference, readers' advisory and collection development services. This position requires an ALA accredited M.L.S. with excellent oral and written communication skills

One year of reference experience, knowledge of print and electronic resources preferred. Candidates should have good time management, organization skills and exemplify teamwork, enthusiasm, flexibility, energy, and a genuine enjoyment of work with library customers of all ages. The librarian will participate in the library's community outreach initiative and serve as part of the Person in Charge team on rotation and be a contributing member of library committees.

This position will include daytime and evening hours, and a rotating weekend schedule. This position requires the following physical abilities: to handle, lift, move, shift library materials weighing up to 25 lbs.; to wheel book-carts weighing up to 125 lbs.; to operate a keyboard; to stand, sit, kneel, walk, stoop, reach repeatedly throughout the workday. Library experience and experience with children a plus

All library positions require the following criminal background and child abuse clearances: Report of criminal history from the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP); Child Abuse History Clearance from the Department of Human Services (Child Abuse); and Fingerprint based federal criminal history submitted through the Pennsylvania State Police or its authorized agent (FBI). All employees of the Chester County Library are considered a mandated reporter of suspected child abuse under the Child Protective Services Law (Title 23 Pa. C.S.A

Chapter 63). Essential Duties Staff the library's service desk(s) Provide guidance in finding library materials. Provide general reference and advisory services.

Assist in collection development and maintenance. Plan, produce and promote library programs, presenting in-house and/or virtual programs as well as coordinating with outside organizations/presenters. Complete assigned projects that support the library's annual goals and objectives.

Participate in community outreach activities. Assist supervisor with daily operations and provide reports, as needed. Assist with creating daily schedules and ensure there is adequate coverage.

Serve as part of the Person in Charge team on rotation. Participate in continuing education workshops, seminars and conferences as needed to keep current in the field. Perform other duties, tasks and special projects, as required.

Qualifications/Preferred Skills, Knowledge & Experience Master's degree from an accredited college or university in Library or Information Science or ability to attain one within 1 year. Working knowledge of the American Library Association Library Bill of Rights and Freedom to View Statement. Commitment to providing excellent customer service.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to handle stressful situations. Ability to use common sense understanding to carry out written or verbal instructions.

Flexibility and ability to accept change. Accurate and detail-oriented. Ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.

Ability to establish priorities. Work includes evening shifts and weekend shifts in rotation. PA Criminal background check.

PA Child abuse clearance. FBI Fingerprint-based Criminal Background check Preferred Skills, Knowledge & Experience: One year of job-related library experience. Master's degree from an ALA-accredited college or university in Library or Information Science.

Familiarity with the principles and practices of public library service. Knowledge of the use of review sources. Strong communication skills in person, over the phone, and by email.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Knowledge and skill with standard office equipment (e.g., fax, copier, etc.). Exhibits sound and accurate judgment

Ability to remain focused on daily operations. Ability to handle and resolve recurring problems. Proactive and flexible.

Strong time management skills. Ability to speak in public (presentation and storytelling skills). Additional Information Relevant background checks, clearances, physicals, drug tests, and any other assessments or evaluations will be conducted after an offer of employment is given per County policy.

Computer Skills: To perform this job successfully, an individual should have: Basic computer knowledge and skill to use Windows software Basic Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) skills Basic knowledge of virtual communication platforms (ex. Zoom, Webex, Teams) Proficient in using databases and the internet Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to walk, talk and hear. Occasionally, the employee will need to stand; sit; bend at the waist; kneel, stoop, crouch or squat; lift and carry items up to 25 pounds; work with office machinery; and reach above shoulders to place books on and retrieve books from high shelves.

Must be able to lift and transport books by hand and push a full cart of books for several yards. On rare occasions, the employee will need to crawl, climb on ladders, and push items weighing up to 75 pounds. The specific vision requirements for this position are as follows: Close vision (clear vision at 20 inches or less) Color vision (ability to identify and distinguish colors) Ability to read computer screen for extended time periods Ability to read print formats including small print Work Environment: The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet but can vary especially when public programs are taking place.

Work will be performed in an office environment. This position requires sitting in front of a computer the majority of the time. Other: This position may require evening and weekend shift work.

This position requires professionalism.