1

Graduate Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Librarian (Cataloger)

Washington, DC ยท On-site +1

$70K - $91K/yr

A. Completion of 1 full academic year of graduate study in library science in an accredited college or university, in addition to completion of all work required for a bachelor's degree; or B. A ...

Librarian

Decatur, GA ยท On-site

$52K - $84K/yr

Master's degree in Library and Information Science from an American Library Association accredited graduate school required. Previous experience in library services, education, or customer service is ...

Librarian

Decatur, GA ยท On-site

$52K - $84K/yr

Master's degree in Library and Information Science from an American Library Association accredited graduate school required. Previous experience in library services, education, or customer service is ...

Librarian (Business)

Washington, DC ยท On-site +1

$70K - $91K/yr

Completion of 1 full academic year of graduate study in library science in an accredited college or university, in addition to completion of all work required for a bachelor's degree; or A total of ...

Provide instruction and consultation to undergraduate, graduate, and online students, faculty, and staff on the use of electronic resources and library materials. * Collaborate with the Educational ...

Provide instruction and consultation to undergraduate, graduate, and online students, faculty, and staff on the use of electronic resources and library materials. * Collaborate with the Educational ...

Showing results 21-40

Graduate Librarian information

See salary details

$31K

$65.2K

$102.5K

How much do graduate librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate librarian in the United States is $65,193.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $75,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate librarian?

Graduate Librarians are individuals who have completed a graduate-level degree, typically a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS), and work in libraries or information centers. They are trained in organizing, managing, and providing access to information resources, and may work in academic, public, or special libraries. Graduate Librarians often assist patrons with research, manage library collections, develop programs, and stay current with emerging technologies in the field.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a graduate librarian?

To thrive as a Graduate Librarian, you typically need a master's degree in library and information science, along with strong research and organizational skills. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital cataloguing tools, and database management is commonly required. Strong customer service, communication, and problem-solving abilities help librarians engage with diverse patrons and support their information needs. These skills and qualifications are essential to efficiently manage library resources, facilitate information access, and foster a supportive learning environment.

What challenges might a graduate librarian face when transitioning from academic study to a professional library environment?

Graduate Librarians often find that adapting to the pace and expectations of a professional library can be challenging. Unlike academic projects, daily responsibilities may include managing multiple reference requests, learning new library technologies, and balancing administrative tasks with patron service. Collaboration with experienced colleagues and engaging in ongoing professional development can help ease this transition. Additionally, understanding institutional policies and effectively serving a diverse user base are skills that develop with time and experience.

What is the difference between Graduate Librarian vs Library Technician?

AspectGraduate LibrarianLibrary Technician
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS)Associate's degree or diploma in library technology
Work EnvironmentAcademic, public, or special libraries; research-focusedPublic, school, or community libraries; support roles
Employer & Industry UsageLibraries seeking professional librarians for management and specialized tasksLibraries needing technical support and operational assistance

The main difference between a Graduate Librarian and a Library Technician lies in their qualifications and responsibilities. Graduate Librarians typically hold a master's degree in library science and handle more complex, research-oriented tasks, often in academic or specialized settings. Library Technicians usually have an associate's degree and focus on operational support, cataloging, and customer service. Both roles are essential in library operations but differ in scope and level of expertise.

What can I do with a graduate librarian degree?

A graduate librarian degree qualifies individuals for roles such as academic, public, or special librarians, involving managing collections, assisting users, and organizing information. Graduates often work in libraries, archives, or information centers, utilizing skills in cataloging, research, and digital tools. Certification or additional training may enhance employment opportunities in specific settings.
More about Graduate Librarian jobs

What cities are hiring for Graduate Librarian jobs?

Cities with the most Graduate Librarian job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Graduate Librarian jobs?

For Graduate Librarian jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Graduate Librarian job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 4% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,193 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

Librarian (Cataloger)

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site, Remote

Library of Congress
Libraries and Archivesย โ€ขย 1 - 5K employees

$70K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Catalog a variety of music and performing arts materials in an automated cataloging environment.

  • Analyze and organize subject data to determine its relationship to existing collections and apply cataloging rules and guidelines.

  • Maintain personal contacts and collaborate with team members and cataloging policy staff to improve cataloging processes and procedures.


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
Help
This position serves as a Librarian (Cataloger) in the Music Bibliographic Access Section, Music Division, Special Collections Directorate, Researcher and Collections Service (RCS) Library Collections and Services Group (LCSG), at the Library of Congress (LOC) and reports to the Supervisory Librarian.
As the Librarian (Cataloger), you will:
  • Catalog a variety of music and performing arts material in an automated cataloging environment where the bibliographic characteristics of the material are relatively easy to determine and cataloging decisions are made within established standards; search entries in automated and manual catalogs; assign headings to catalog entries; select and assign classification numbers, create and revise bibliographic records, authority records, and classification schedules; perform content designation of bibliographic and authority records; perform research in the catalogs reference collection, online databases, the world wide web, and the collections of the Library; and resolve problems and inconsistencies in the cataloging process.
  • Analyze and organize standard subject data to determine its relationship to the existing collections for proper main entry, and the need for added entries; analyze material to determine subject content; apply standard rules, guidelines, and reference tools and established techniques and practices; and participate in formulating plans for changes and improvements to cataloging related issues.
  • Maintain personal contacts and cooperative work relationships in order to provide or exchange information; consult with the Service Unit and cataloging policy staff to recommend changes and additions in descriptive and subject cataloging rules: offer suggestions and advice to the Service Unit on operational and technical problems; collaborates with the Service Unit and other staff in planning and implementing the following team activities: workflow procedures, team priorities, cataloging projects of an experimental nature, and goal setting and strategies for meeting the team production.
  • Perform other duties assigned.

The position description number for this position is 470542.
The salary range indicated reflects the locality pay adjustments for the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan area.
The incumbent of this position will work a Compflex or Flexitime work schedule. This is a non-supervisory, bargaining unit position.
Relocation expenses will not be authorized for the person(s) selected under this vacancy announcement.
Requirements
Help
Conditions of employment
Conditions of Employment
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 cataloging principles, standards, and practices for music and performing arts materials.**
Knowledge of history, theory, and literature of music.**
Ability to analyze and organize information and materials and interpret information in a music or performing arts library environment.**
Ability to interact collaboratively with others to provide consultation and liaison duties.
Ability to use integrated library systems, applications, or other information technologies.
Ability to communicate effectively other than in writing.
Education
All librarians must meet the requirements for professional education in library science or possess equivalent experience and education.
A. Completion of 1 full academic year of graduate study in library science in an accredited college or university, in addition to completion of all work required for a bachelor's degree;
or
B. A total of at least 5 years of a combination of college-level education, training, and experience. To qualify on this basis, the applicant must establish conclusively that the education, training, and experience provided knowledge and understanding of the theories, principles, and techniques of professional librarianship; a knowledge of literature resources; and the knowledge and abilities essential for providing effective library and information services.
Additional Education And Experience Requirements for Positions at GS-9 and Above
In addition to meeting the basic entry qualification requirements, applicants must have directly related education and/or specialized experience in the amounts required for the grade level as shown in the following table.
2 full years of progressively higher level graduate education or master's in library science or equivalent graduate degree, e.g., LL.B. or J.D., related to the position.
You MUST submit a legible copy of your college/university transcripts to your online application. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable at the time of application. Official transcripts will be required if selected. Failure to submit the required legible documentation at the time of application will result in disqualification of your application.
Foreign Education - Education completed outside the U.S. must be deemed equivalent to conventional/accredited U.S. education programs to be acceptable for Federal employment. If your college/university is outside the U.S., your transcripts must be accompanied by a report from a credential evaluation service that is a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or the Association of International Credentials Evaluators (AICE). Failure to submit a foreign education evaluation report will result in disqualification of your application.
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.
Applicants must submit a complete application package that is received by the closing date of this announcement.
Appointment/retention is subject to a favorable evaluation of an appropriate personnel security/suitability investigation. For more information, please see:Vetting Process
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.
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. 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.
A "Not to Exceed" (NTE) status is used to identify an appointment with a specific ending date. However, the Library has the right to separate a NTE employee at any time due to either performance issues or budget constraints.
Are you a veteran? Please indicate the type of veterans' preference you are claiming in your application materials and/or applicant profile and provide the appropriate supporting documentation to validate your claim. Those applying for 5-point preference must submit Member Copy 4 of your DD 214. Those applying for 10-point preference must fill out an SF-15 (click here for the form) and provide the required documentation listed on the back of the form. If required supporting documentation is not attached, Veterans' Preference will not be considered in the application process.
Expand Hide additional information
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
Help
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.