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Graduate Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Library Graduate Assistant supports key services in the Montgomery Library, by assisting full-time employees in all library areas. This position will gain hands-on experience in research support ...

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How much do graduate librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Graduate Librarian, and why are they important?

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 are some common challenges a Graduate Librarian may 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 are Graduate Librarians?

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.
More about Graduate Librarian jobs
What cities are hiring for Graduate Librarian jobs? Cities with the most Graduate Librarian job openings:
BCB Performance Library Graduate Assistant

BCB Performance Library Graduate Assistant

Berklee College of Music

Boston, MA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 15 days ago


Berklee College Of Music rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

358th of 546 rated colleges and universities


Job description

In order to participate in Berklee Student Employment, a student must fulfill the following requirements:
  • Current student at Berklee College of Music or Boston Conservatory at Berklee.
  • Enrolled at least half-time in a degree, diploma, or certificate-seeking undergraduate or graduate program. Summer is the only semester in which a student can maintain employment without being enrolled. In this case, the student must be pre-registered for the upcoming fall semester. This exception does not apply to fall or spring semesters.
  • Have a valid United States Social Security Number (SSN).
  • Remain in "valid" Visa status as applicable.
  • A minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA. Students in their first semester can work, even though they do not have an official GPA until the completion of their first semester.
  • Federal Work Study student may apply.
  • In good disciplinary standing.
  • Must be located in the U.S.

For complete program details, please go to our website: www.berklee.edu/se.
The Performance Library Graduate Assistant is a member of the Instrumental Studies department at the Conservatory. They work on a team in a leadership capacity under the direction of the staff Performance Librarian with additional oversight by the Chair/Assistant Chair of Instrumental Studies, assisting in the daily operations of the BCB Performance Library.
Please submit an application on Workday and work resume for consideration, applications without work resumes will not be considered. Cover letters are required.
General Statement of Job Functions
  • Prepare music for rehearsals, performances, and courses
  • Distribute, collect, and organize sheet music
  • Coordinate student library team in the preparation of materials
  • Assist the Performance Librarian in assessing and addressing the needs of the conductors and ensembles
  • Work in partnership with Performance Librarian and other staff to maintain a functional, orderly, and productive working environment in the Performance Library
  • Respond to general questions from students and faculty regarding part preparation and distribution status, or library-related ensemble issues
  • Attend concerts and rehearsals as necessary to oversee the distribution or collection of music

Principal Duties and Responsibilities
  • Serve as lead library assistant, overseeing the performance library at times when Performance Librarian is not working
  • Process, prepare, distribute, collect, and generally administer sheet music for large instrumental ensembles on a schedule determined by the Performance Librarian and Department Leadership
  • Assist in all aspects of the music preparation, including but not limited to editing, proofreading, distribution, scanning, marking string parts, adding measure numbers and rehearsal systems, correcting errata, creating errata lists, adding cuts, edits, and inserts; repairing damaged parts/scores and assembling folders
  • Participate in the preparation of musical materials according to the requirements of the particular work and ensemble as assigned by the Performance Librarian
  • Maintain a clean and organized library environment
  • Complete opening and closing procedures such as locking and unlocking the library and assisting in managing lockers for the Instrument Library
  • Serve as a representative of the Performance Library by interfacing with conductors and faculty, over email and in person, to facilitate requests
  • Staff the library desk during open hours and be available to answer general questions and fulfill requests from students, staff, conductors and faculty
  • Loan out and check in instruments from the instrument library and take note of any repair needs
  • Assist the Performance Librarian in maintaining the Performance Library Ensemble Collection in its various locations
  • Assist in cataloging and filing music purchased for the Boston Conservatory ensembles, maintain accurate inventory, and ensure accurate security. Return ensemble music sets to shelves immediately following performances
  • Track all items borrowed from the library, i.e, individual parts, scores, reference materials; ensure their timely return
  • Maintain confidentiality in regards to music ensemble castings and administrative planning
  • Delivery and pickup of library materials from mailroom and other Boston Conservatory at Berklee buildings
  • In rare cases, take attendance for BCB ensemble rehearsals and concerts
  • Additional responsibilities, as determined in collaboration with your supervisor.

Qualifications and Skills
  • (Preferred) Experience with ensembles at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee
  • (Preferred) Interest and knowledge of music performance librarianship
  • Broad knowledge of music, including musical terms and foreign languages (French, Italian, and German)
  • Ability to build a strong relationship with and work successfully with faculty, conductors and division administration in a highly demanding and fast-paced environment
  • Ability to manage a small team of peer employees to ensure the smooth operation of the performance library
  • Knowledge of music theory, history, orchestration, transposition, and music notation conventions
  • Extraordinary attention to detail and strong organizational skills, including ability to handle multiple tasks and simultaneously and consistently meet deadlines
  • Self-motivated and able to work independently and under pressure
  • Collaborative spirit to work as part of a successful team
  • Good customer service skills as well as verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to handle issues, changes and mistakes in a graceful and respectful manner
  • Working fluency with Google Suite applications and macOS

Work Hours: 8-10+ per week
Hourly Rate: $19.57
Hiring Manager: Cassian Ramos

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