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Film Library Assistant Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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Film Library Assistant information

What is a film library assistant?

Film Library Assistants are professionals who help manage, organize, and maintain collections of film and video materials in libraries, archives, or media centers. Their responsibilities often include cataloging films, facilitating access for researchers and staff, preserving media, and handling loans and returns. They may also assist with digitization efforts and ensure that all materials are stored under appropriate conditions to prevent damage. Film Library Assistants work closely with librarians, archivists, and patrons to support the smooth operation of the film library. This role requires attention to detail, organizational skills, and a basic understanding of film formats and preservation methods.

What are the typical responsibilities of a film library assistant?

As a Film Library Assistant, your primary responsibilities include cataloging, organizing, and maintaining film and media assets, both physical and digital. You’ll assist with retrieving materials for production staff, archiving new content, and ensuring that all items are stored in accordance with preservation standards. Collaboration is key, as you’ll regularly coordinate with archivists, editors, and technical staff to fulfill requests and support ongoing projects. This role offers valuable exposure to media management practices and can serve as a strong foundation for career advancement in film archiving or media asset management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a film library assistant?

To thrive as a Film Library Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a background in library science or media management, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with digital asset management systems, cataloging software, and archival standards is typically required. Excellent communication, time management, and customer service skills help you work effectively with staff and patrons. These abilities ensure the accurate preservation, retrieval, and circulation of film materials, supporting efficient library operations.

What is the difference between Film Library Assistant vs Film Archivist?

AspectFilm Library AssistantFilm Archivist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer related courseworkBachelor's or master's degree in film studies, library science, or archival studies
Work EnvironmentLibraries, media centers, educational institutionsArchives, museums, film preservation facilities
Primary ResponsibilitiesOrganizing, cataloging, and maintaining film collections; assisting usersPreserving, cataloging, and managing film collections for long-term access

While both roles involve handling film collections, a Film Library Assistant primarily supports daily operations and user assistance, whereas a Film Archivist focuses on preservation, long-term storage, and detailed cataloging of film materials. The Archivist typically requires advanced education and specialized skills, making it a more advanced position within the film preservation industry.

How do I become a film library assistant?

To become a film library assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should have good organizational and computer skills. Experience with cataloging, familiarity with media formats, and attention to detail are beneficial. Some positions may require knowledge of library management software or film archives.

Is there demand for film library assistants?

Film library assistants are in demand in institutions such as archives, museums, and media organizations that manage film collections. The role often requires organizational skills and familiarity with cataloging systems, and employment opportunities can vary based on funding and institutional needs.

What cities in Washington are hiring for Film Library Assistant jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Film Library Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Film Library Assistant job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, and 31% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Prints and Photographs Librarian

Washington, DC • On-site

Howard University
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$75K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Howard University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff "for fit" makes significant contributions to Howard University's overall mission.
At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.
Here is what we offer:
  • Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
  • Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
  • Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
  • Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
  • Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us!
https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness
Howard University is seeking a Prints and Photograph Librarian.
The Prints and Photograph Librarian at the Moorland-Spingarn Research Center provides reference and research assistance to researchers, faculty, staff, students, donors, and film makers. This leadership position also develops, evaluates, and implements policies and procedures for the acquisition, processing, preservation, exhibition, research, access, and reproduction of photographs and other graphic materials within the Manuscripts Division's prints and photographs section. Additional responsibilities include preparing exhibits, conducting outreach and public programming to promote the Research Center's collections, and performing other related duties as assigned by the supervisor.
The incumbent develops and implements policies and procedures for the administration and reproduction of photographs and other graphic materials.
Principal Accountabilities include:
  • Interacts with researchers, faculty, staff, students and donors to the Research Center, to communicate policies, procedures and operations of the prints and photographs section of the Manuscripts Division.
  • Develops, evaluates, and implements policies and procedures for the administration, acquisition, processing , preservation, exhibition, research, access and the reproduction of photographs and other graphic materials .
  • Evaluates, sort s, arranges, describes, implements preservation measures, prepares reference, retrieval and storage tools, maintains administrative files for the preservation, research, access, and administration of photographs and other graphic materials.
  • Identifies and administers the acquisition of photographs and graphic material.
  • Trains and supervises technical and clerical staff and student assistants volunteers in the processing, preservation, retrieval and filing of photographs and other graphic materials . •
  • Provides reference and research assistance and reproduction services to users of manuscript, archival, photographs and other graphic materials; including use and reproduction of materials by photographers and film crews.
  • Handles, lifts, and moves materials, boxed and unboxed, as necessary to support the operation of this position .

Core Competencies include:
  • Prepares exhibits, performs outreach services, plans and implements public programs promoting the Research Center and its collect ions .
  • Performs all other related duties as assigned by the supervisor.
  • A strong social science background and familiarity with research methods and procedures, including a broad knowledge of African American history and culture.
  • Knowledge of library and archival techniques, theories and practices.
  • Knowledge of photographic history and processes, and computer applications desirable.
  • Competence in both oral and written English.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective and harmonious working relationships with faculty, staff, students, donors, researchers, university officials, and the general public.
  • Mature judgment and the ability to prioritize and adapt to numerous duties that must be performed.
  • Subject specialty in African American and/or African Diasporic history and culture

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
  • Master's degree from an accredited institution in Library and or Information Science.
  • Post-secondary course work in photography and preservation and/or the administration of photograph collections desirable.
  • Two (2) years of work experience as a Librarian and work with photographic collections desirable.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure
Compensation Range: $75,000 - $85,000
* Commensurate with a candidate's skills, qualifications, and professional experience *

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