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Federal Government Library Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Librarian with Security Clearance

Fairfax, VA · On-site

... library staffing, and integration services, has an immediate opening for a Librarian at a federal government client site in McLean, VA. DUTIES: * Perform original research and reference service for ...

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Library of Congress

Library Technician

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$63K - $83K/yr

The Library is part of the Federal Government and abides by federal law, so regardless of individual state or District of Columbia laws, marijuana use is illegal, considered criminal activity, and ...

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How much do federal government library jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for federal government library in the United States is $18.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a federal government library?

A federal government library is an information center operated by a federal agency or department to support its mission and serve the information needs of its staff, policymakers, and sometimes the general public. These libraries collect, organize, and provide access to specialized resources such as books, reports, legal documents, and databases related to government operations and research. Federal libraries can be found in various agencies, covering topics from law and health to science and defense. Some notable examples include the Library of Congress and the National Library of Medicine. Access policies and collections vary depending on the agency and the library's specific focus.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a federal government librarian?

To thrive as a Federal Government Librarian, you typically need a Master of Library Science (MLS) or equivalent degree, along with expertise in information organization, research, and relevant federal regulations. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital archives, government databases, and classification tools like MARC and LC is essential. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial for supporting federal missions and assisting diverse user groups. These skills ensure the accurate management, accessibility, and dissemination of vital government information.

What are some common challenges faced by librarians working in a federal government library?

Librarians in federal government libraries often encounter challenges such as managing sensitive or classified information, adapting to evolving government regulations, and serving a diverse user base with specialized research needs. They must stay updated on compliance and security protocols while ensuring information accessibility for government employees. Additionally, they may work within structured teams and collaborate closely with policy analysts, researchers, and other government staff, making strong communication and adaptability essential skills.

What is the difference between Federal Government Library vs State Government Library?

AspectFederal Government LibraryState Government Library
CredentialsTypically requires a Master’s in Library Science (MLS) or equivalentSame as federal, often requiring MLS or equivalent
Work EnvironmentLocated within federal agencies, national institutionsLocated within state agencies, state capitals, or regional offices
Employer & Industry UsageServes federal employees, national research, and policyServes state employees, local communities, and regional research
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for scope, funding, and jurisdictionCompared for regional focus and governance

The main difference between a Federal Government Library and a State Government Library lies in their jurisdiction, scope, and employer. Federal libraries serve national agencies and require similar credentials, while state libraries focus on state agencies and regional needs. Both roles typically require a Master’s in Library Science and work within government settings, but their audiences and operational scope differ.

More about Federal Government Library jobs

What cities are hiring for Federal Government Library jobs?

Cities with the most Federal Government Library job openings:

What states have the most Federal Government Library jobs?

States with the most job openings for Federal Government Library jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Federal Government Library jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Federal Government Library jobs are:

Federal Government Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Government Library job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,859 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Library Operations and Collection Management Specialist

Nwis

Sterling, VA • On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Manage daily operations of a specialized government library, including opening and closing procedures, reference services, and resource access.

  • Oversee physical collection management by tracking, inventorying, weeding, and maintaining materials according to policies and standards.

  • Perform routine collection inventory, shelf-reading, and execute redistribution of materials to ensure organization and accessibility.

Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.


TheLibrary Operations and Collection Management Specialistwill manage daily operations of a specialized government library, including reference desk services, physical collection management, and circulation operations. This position requires adherence to security protocols and federal facility standards while providing professional library services to support analytical staff.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Library Operations

  • Open and close library vault daily following established security protocols
  • Provide reference and research assistance to analysts and authorized users
  • Respond to information requests and facilitate access to resources

Collection Management

  • Manage circulation, routing, and tracking systems for all physical holdings
  • Maintain accurate records of materials check-out, location, and status
  • Implement Sponsor-approved approaches to improve discoverability of physical holdings
  • Support analysts' timely access to hard-copy materials and collections
  • Conduct regular collection inventory and shelf management activities

Collection Maintenance

  • Perform routine collection inventory and shelf-reading
  • Prepare weeding and disposition actions in accordance with authorized policies
  • Execute materials routing and redistribution as needed
  • Maintain collection organization consistent with professional library standards and Sponsor guidance
  • Generate reports on collection usage, gaps, and maintenance activities

Required Qualifications

Education

  • Master of Library Science (MLS), Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS), or equivalent degree from an ALA-accredited institution
  • ORBachelor's degree with significant library operations experience (5+ years)

Experience

  • Minimum 2-3 years of professional library experience
  • Demonstrated experience with circulation systems and physical collection management
  • Knowledge of library cataloging and classification systems (LC or Dewey)

Clearance and Security

  • Current Top Secret Clearance with Polygraph

Technical Skills

  • Proficiency with Integrated Library Systems (ILS) or Library Management Systems
  • Experience with circulation and tracking databases
  • Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite
  • Familiarity with document management and workflow systems
  • Ability to learn specialized government library systems

Professional Competencies

  • Knowledge of professional library standards and best practices
  • Understanding of collection development and weeding principles
  • Strong organizational and time management abilities
  • Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive materials

Communication Skills

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to document processes and procedures clearly
  • Professional customer service skills
  • Ability to work effectively with analysts and researchers

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in special, government, or corporate library environments
  • Familiarity with intelligence community or federal library operations
  • Experience with secure/classified materials handling
  • Knowledge of records management principles
  • Experience implementing discovery tools or digital cataloging enhancements
  • Project management experience

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand for extended periods at reference desk
  • Capability to lift and move materials up to 25-40 pounds
  • Ability to reach, bend, and shelve materials at various heights
  • Visual acuity for detailed catalog and reference work
  • Ability to work in a vault/secure environment with limited natural light


Salary & Benefits

The salary associated with this position ($99,000-$206,000) is commensurate with the selected candidate's qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise. Compensation will be determined based on these factors to ensure alignment with skills, responsibilities, and market standards.


Nightwingoffers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays, and additional insurances.


Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.

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