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The Pennsylvania State University

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How much do federal government library jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 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.

Are public librarians government workers?

Public librarians are often government employees if they work for municipal, state, or federal libraries. However, some librarians work for private or nonprofit organizations. Employment status depends on the specific library's funding and ownership.

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

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.

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.

Is it hard to get hired as a librarian?

Getting hired as a librarian in a federal government library can be competitive, often requiring a relevant master's degree in library science or information studies and passing civil service exams. Strong organizational skills, familiarity with library management systems, and experience with federal hiring processes can improve chances of employment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Federal Government Librarian, and why are they important?

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.

How much do federal librarians make?

Federal librarians typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location within the government. Salaries are often aligned with the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, with higher grades and specialized skills leading to increased pay. Benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave.

Can you make 6 figures as a librarian?

Federal government librarians can potentially earn six-figure salaries, especially with advanced degrees, specialized skills, and senior positions. However, most librarian roles in the public sector typically have salaries below six figures, with higher earnings often found in administrative or specialized roles. Salary levels depend on experience, location, and job responsibilities.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,859 per year, or $18.7 per hour.
Library Technician

Library Technician

Library Systems & Services LLC

Silver Spring, MD • On-site

$24.49 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
LAC Federal is seeking a reliable and detail-oriented Library Technician / Paraprofessional to support a federal scientific library in providing library operations, collection maintenance, circulation, document delivery, and customer service support within a federal scientific library environment. This position supports researchers, scientists, analysts, and staff by ensuring that library collections, records, and public service operations remain organized, accessible, and responsive to user needs. The successful candidate will assist with physical collection maintenance, circulation services, interlibrary loan support, digitization activities, inventory control, and general library operations.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Process physical library materials including barcodes, spine labels, security tags, and property stamps
  • Shelve, shift, and maintain library collections using Library of Congress Classification (LCC) or local filing systems
  • Conduct shelf-reading and collection maintenance activities to ensure filing accuracy and retrievability
  • Create and update patron records using the government-provided integrated library system (ILS)
  • Perform circulation activities including check-in, check-out, renewals, recalls, and holds
  • Support interlibrary loan (ILL) and document delivery services by processing requests, retrieving materials, scanning documents, and coordinating shipments
  • Assist with inventory control and collection tracking activities using government-provided databases and systems
  • Support digitization projects by preparing materials, scanning documents, creating tracking lists, and performing quality checks on digital files
  • Assist with archival processing, records management, and metadata support activities as assigned
  • Provide front-line customer service and assist users with locating materials and accessing library resources
  • Support library outreach activities, exhibits training sessions, and events as needed
  • Assist with opening and closing library facilities and maintaining orderly public and staff spaces
  • Track and report circulation, usage, and service statistics
  • Identify and report facilities, equipment, or electronic access issues to federal staff
  • Support emergency response and collection protection activities during facility or environmental incidents
  • Assist with physical inventory of library equipment and property

Requirements
  • Associate's degree from a recognized college or technical school; May substitute experience for degree
  • Minimum of one (1) year of relevant library, archives, records management, or information services experience
  • Experience using library systems, databases, or inventory tracking systems
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Strong customer service and communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a professional environment
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and standard office software
  • Ability to follow detailed procedures and maintain accurate records

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience supporting scientific, technical, academic, or federal libraries
  • Familiarity with Library of Congress Classification (LCC)
  • Experience with integrated library systems (ILS) and circulation operations
  • Experience supporting interlibrary loan, digitization, or archival activities
  • Familiarity with metadata or document management systems
  • Experience supporting inventory or property accountability functions
  • Familiarity with Section 508 accessibility requirements

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, reach, and use hands and fingers for extended periods of time in a library or office environment.
  • Ability to frequently lift, carry, move, shelve, and transport books, boxes, files, library materials, and equipment weighing up to 30 pounds.
  • Ability to travel throughout library, storage, and office areas, including pushing carts, retrieving materials, and operating standard office and scanning equipment for prolonged periods.

Benefits
  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Training & Development

EEO Statement
The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Nothing in this job specification restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently.
Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.
Salary Description
$24.49 - $26.00

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