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Collection Development Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

JBI Library

Head Librarian

Manhattan, NY · On-site

Collection Development and Library Services * Partner with JBI Library patrons to oversee collection development and ensure the collection reflects the diverse interests and needs of patrons.

JBI Library

Head Librarian

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Collection Development and Library Services * Partner with JBI Library patrons to oversee collection development and ensure the collection reflects the diverse interests and needs of patrons.

JBI Library

Head Librarian

Manhattan, NY

Collection Development and Library Services * Partner with JBI Library patrons to oversee collection development and ensure the collection reflects the diverse interests and needs of patrons.

City of Calabasas

Librarian

Calabasas, CA · On-site

$30/hr

Evaluate and select library materials; recommend and purchase materials for collection development; remove obsolete, non-relevant and worn books from library collection. Interpret and communicate ...

Douglas County, NV

Librarian

Minden, NV · On-site

$33.42 - $46.79/hr

Coordinates collection development by selecting and de-selecting materials; assists in the collection evaluation and development of specific Library collections for subject areas; participates as a ...

State of Nevada (NV)

LIBRARIAN 4

Carson City, NV

$70K - $104K/yr

... collection development and materials purchasing, and collecting, analyzing, and reporting ... Librarians are typically assigned to the Nevada State Library, Archives and Public Records (NSLAPR ...

Douglas County (NV)

Librarian

Minden, NV

$33.42 - $46.79/hr

Coordinates collection development by selecting and de-selecting materials; assists in the collection evaluation and development of specific Library collections for subject areas; participates as a ...

City of Palo Alto

Senior Librarian

Palo Alto, CA

$103K - $125K/yr

Sunday to Thursday The Opportunity Collection development is at the heart of every public library, and this position plays a key role in shaping the library experience for our community. As our ...

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All JobsCollection Development Librarian Jobs

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 25, 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, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,941 per year, or $32.7 per hour.
Collections Manager

Collections Manager

The Kansas City Public Library

Kansas City, MO • On-site

$63K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Summary
Library Collections consists of two departments, Collection Development and Discovery Services. Reporting to the Director of Library Collections, the Collections Manager oversees the Collection Development department, managing centralized collection development responsibilities, resources, and data. The position is responsible for the physical and digital materials collections and electronic resources and supervises the Collection Development Librarians, who select and maintain physical materials, and the Sr. Virtual Resources Librarian, who selects, maintains, and provides training for the digital materials and electronic resources.
Supporting collection impact, strategy, and innovation, the Collections Manager requires strong supervisory skills; understanding application of collection development principles; expertise in data analysis and presentation in a data-informed environment; effective use of reporting and discovery tools to support decision making; thoughtful and accurate materials funds management; experience with vendor relations, including contract review and negotiation; and ability to select materials for special collections.
Critical to the success of Library Collections, the Collections Manager plays an integral role, collaborating closely with the Director of Library Collections and Discovery Services in a creative and dynamic environment.
This is a full-time, exempt position with a starting salary of $63,026, plus excellent benefits.
Schedule
Monday - Friday: 8:30 am - 5 pm.
Job Duties (Essential Functions)
  1. Contributes to development and execution of system-wide collection strategy aligned with organizational and departmental priorities and community needs.
  2. Supervises Collection Development staff activities and development.
  3. Manages and maintains the Collection Management Plan (CMaP) that informs and guides Library Collections goals and practices.
  4. Creates, coordinates, implements, and supervises efficient staff processes and workflows.
  5. Utilizes data reporting systems to design reports and evaluate collection performance, informing departmental and organizational decision making.
  6. Develops and monitors budget allocations, priorities, and strategies.
  7. Creates and maintains documentation, including space maps and plans, materials distribution, purchasing priorities, and data reports.
  8. Establishes and maintains vendor relationships, identifying needs, evaluating effectiveness and performance, and assisting with agreement negotiations.
  9. Identifies vendors and selects materials for specialized collections such as World Language.

Additional Duties
  1. Provides backup for other roles, including physical and digital materials selection and collection maintenance.
  2. Collaborates on departmental and cross-departmental special projects initiatives.
  3. Communicates collection strategy and performance metrics to stakeholders.
  4. Contributes to Library Collections messaging through promotion and education.
  5. Participates as an expert in meetings, workgroups, committees, and initiatives.
  6. Displays knowledge of library goals, initiatives, services, and programs.
  7. Cultivates and maintains professional relationships in and outside the library.
  8. Demonstrates knowledge of trends in librarianship, publishing, and education.

Requirements
  1. Knowledge of and ability to apply collection development principles and practices.
  2. Ability to plan, organize, supervise, and prioritize work effectively and efficiently.
  3. Experience with project management.
  4. Ability to effectively use or develop proficiency in Microsoft Excel, BlueCloud Analytics, and CollectionHQ and other resources to provide data informed expertise.
  5. Proficiency in public library materials selection for adult and youth audiences.
  6. Experience identifying, using, and evaluating databases and electronic resources.
  7. Experience with budget and funds management.
  8. Experience with automated library systems.
  9. Knowledge of and ability to use resources and methods to analyze data.
  10. Proficiency in oral, written, and public communication.
  11. Ability to establish and maintain effective collaborative working relationships.
  12. Knowledge of current publishing practices and consumer materials use.
  13. Able to lift and carry books up to 20 lbs and move book trucks up to 100 lbs.
  14. Ability to speak and understand English is required. Additional consideration will be given to individuals that are proficient in any non-English language utilized in Jackson County, MO, including Spanish, American Sign Language, Vietnamese, French, Arabic, and Swahili.

Required Education and Experience
  • Master of Library Science degree from an accredited Library Science Degree program.
  • Two years public services experience, preferably in a public library.
  • Three years professional collection development experience, preferably in a public library.
  • Three years supervisory experience.
  • One year vendor relations with contract review and negotiation experience.

Work Environment
Work is performed at the Central Library location. Primary workspace is shared with co-workers in an office environment.
Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
The employee must be able to perform the essential functions and job requirements of the position satisfactorily. If requested, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job, absent undue hardship.
How to Apply
Please apply for this position through our web application system. We only accept applications for specific currently open positions made through our online system. Access the online application from the job listing on the Job Opportunities Page. The application system allows you to attach a document (such as a cover letter or a resume) to your application (10MB limit per document). When you submit your application, an acknowledgement will be sent to the email address you provided. You are welcome to apply for as
many positions as you wish. However, to minimize problems, close and restart your browser between each application.
All online Application for Employment forms must be completely filled out. For technical assistance, call 816.701.3712.
Kansas City Public Library is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Salary Description
$63,026 annually

Apply