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Federal Government Library Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... Federal Depository Library (FDLP), Tuskegee University Library Services seeks a qualified candidate to manage and provide access to government documents while delivering high-quality reference and ...

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How much do federal government library jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 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 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.

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.
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:
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, 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% 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.

Supervisory Librarian (Head, European Reading Room)

Library of Congress

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

$143K - $187K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Summary
The Library of Congress shares its vast collections of books, manuscripts, photographs, maps, audiovisual materials, and priceless artifacts to cultivate curiosity and spark imagination. We engage, inspire, and inform Congress and the American people with a universal and enduring source of knowledge and creativity.
We seek highly talented professionals to join a vibrant and collaborative community. Your work here will have lasting impact on the Library and its users well into the future.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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This position serves as a Head of the European Reading Room in the Latin American, Caribbean and European Division. The primary purpose of this position is to be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Section, supervising the staff, and serving as a specialist in matters dealing with the countries, languages and regions within the Section's geographic area of responsibility. Under the guidance of the Division Chief, the incumbent assures the provision of timely and accurate reference service to the Congress and other Library patrons, directs the development and maintenance of the Library's collections pertaining to the region, facilitates the effective use of these collections by scholars, researchers, and others worldwide, and manages the development of digital technology to advance the Section's goals
As the Supervisor, you will:
  • Direct a complex administrative and technical program which assures the provision of timely and accurate reference service to the Congress and other Library patrons.
  • Supervise the work of the Staff up to the GS-13 grade level. Plan the work of the Section, including formulating goals and objectives and identifying opportunities for improvements in methods and procedures.
  • Plan, establish, and direct a library reference program to provide information about the region. Oversee all reference service provided by the Section's staff.
  • Oversee staff making authoritative recommendations for the acquisition of material in all languages, formats and subjects of relevance to the study of the region, including legal, audiovisual, and electronic items.
  • Oversee staff making authoritative recommendations for the acquisition of material in all languages, formats and subjects of relevance to the study of the region, including legal, audiovisual, and electronic items.
  • Review and analyze major issues in information research and dissemination as they apply to providing information about the region.

The position description number for this position is 470463.
The salary range indicated reflects the locality pay adjustments for the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan area.
The incumbent of this position will work a flexitime work schedule.
This is a supervisory, non-bargaining unit position.
Relocation expenses will not be authorized for the person(s) selected under this vacancy announcement.
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
Conditions of Employment
The Supervisor leads his/her staff toward meeting the Library's vision, mission, and goals by acting decisively, leveraging diversity and inclusiveness, demonstrating flexibility and resilience, fostering continuous improvement and innovation, and fostering integrity and honesty. To view the Library's Supervisory Core Competencies click the following link: Supervisor Core Competencies
Library of Congress employees are prohibited from using illegal drugs, including marijuana. 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 can affect your employment at the Library. In addition, past or current drug use and activities (e.g., selling or distributing) may deem you ineligible for employment.
Qualifications
Applicants must have had progressively responsible experience and training sufficient in scope and quality to furnish them with an acceptable level of the following knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the position without more than normal supervision.
Knowledge of the subject areas of the Eastern and/or Western European collections of a research library or similar research institution.**
Ability to supervise and lead a diverse workforce.**
Knowledge of integrated library systems, library applications, and other information technologies.**
Knowledge of Eastern and Western European languages.**
Knowledge of acquisitions, conservation, and collection management activities, including reformatting of library materials in a major research library environment.
Knowledge of reference practices and research services.
Ability to effectively communicate in writing.
Ability to communicate effectively other than in writing.
Additional information
Although it is the Library's policy to afford the maximum pay benefit to employees when setting rates of pay, a new appointee who has had no previous Federal service will generally be paid at step one of the grade.
The Library of Congress is an equal opportunity employer. All who meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to apply.
Applicants must submit a complete application package that is received by the closing date of this announcement.
This agency provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please email ADA@loc.gov. The decision on granting reasonable accommodation will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Applicants with disabilities may be considered under special hiring procedures and must submit an appropriate certificate of eligibility when applying for this position. The proof or disability/certification may be issued by the State Vocational Rehabilitation Office, Disability Services or Career Services office of the applicant's college or university, or the Department of Veterans Affairs. The letter must verify that the applicant has a severe disability and must be dated within three years of the date of the application. Certification from health care providers are not accepted. For more information contact the Library's Office of Equal Employment Opportunity at 202-707-6024 or email spp@loc.gov. FAILURE TO SUBMIT YOUR CERTIFICATION WILL CAUSE YOUR APPLICATION TO NOT BE CONSIDERED UNDER THE SELECTIVE PLACEMENT PROGRAM.
The Library of Congress is the national library of the United States and is part of the Legislative Branch of the Federal government. As such, all positions are in the excepted service.
Appointment/retention is subject to a favorable evaluation of an appropriate personnel security/suitability investigation. For more information, please see: https://www.loc.gov/careers/working-at-the-library/frequently-asked-questions/vetting-personnel-at-the-library/
The Library reserves the right to fill a lesser or greater number of vacancies indicated during the life of this vacancy announcement.
Initial permanent appointments to the Library of Congress require completion of a one-year probationary period. In addition, per Library of Congress Regulation 9-532, an appointee or internal selectee is subject to a one-year supervisory probationary period if this is their first supervisory/managerial position at the Library of Congress. Probationary periods served at other Federal agencies do not count toward this requirement.
The Library of Congress may offer repayment for all or part of federally insured student loans. However, not all service units within the Library of Congress participates in the repayment of federally insured student loans. Therefore, determination to repay a federally insured student loan is subject to approval by the appropriate service unit.
The selected applicant may be required to file a financial disclosure statement with the House of Representatives, U.S. Congress, in accordance with the provisions of Public Law 95-521, Ethics in Government Act of 1978.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.