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Library Acquisitions Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Embryriddle

Acquisitions Librarian

Daytona Beach, FL

Hunt Library is committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable workplace and a collegial culture of ... Monitor acquisitions expenditures, reconcile financial activity across Alma, vendor ordering ...

Suns News

Assistant Librarian - Acquisitions

Danbury, CT · On-site

$79.17 - $85.77/hr

Western Connecticut State University Library Services Assistant Librarian - Acquisitions Tenure Track Western Connecticut State University's Libraries are pleased to announce that applications are ...

Embry-Riddle

Acquisitions Librarian

Daytona Beach, FL · On-site

$60 - $90/hr

Hunt Library is committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable workplace and a collegial culture of ... Monitor acquisitions expenditures, reconcile financial activity across Alma, vendor ordering ...

Library of Congress

Supervisory Librarian

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$143K - $187K/yr

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 is located in the Directorate of Acquisitions and ...

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How much do library acquisitions jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for library acquisitions in the United States is $20.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is library acquisitions?

Library Acquisitions refers to the process by which libraries select, order, and obtain new materials such as books, journals, digital resources, and other media for their collections. This process involves evaluating needs, managing budgets, negotiating with vendors, and ensuring that materials meet the needs of the library’s patrons. Acquisitions staff often work closely with librarians, faculty, and publishers to maintain and develop a relevant and diverse collection. Their work is essential for keeping the library’s resources current and useful for the community it serves.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a library acquisitions specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Acquisitions Specialist, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a background in library science, often supported by an MLS or MLIS degree. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), cataloging standards, and vendor management tools is typically required. Strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities help build effective relationships with vendors and internal stakeholders. These skills ensure efficient collection development, accurate resource management, and cost-effective acquisition processes within the library.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in library acquisitions, and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in Library Acquisitions often encounter challenges such as managing limited budgets, balancing the needs of diverse patrons, and staying current with rapidly changing publishing formats. They must prioritize purchases, negotiate with vendors, and sometimes make difficult decisions about which materials to acquire or discontinue. Effective communication with library staff and faculty is essential to align acquisitions with the institution's goals, while ongoing professional development helps them adapt to new technologies and collection strategies.

What is the difference between Library Acquisitions vs Library Cataloging?

AspectLibrary AcquisitionsLibrary Cataloging
Primary RoleProcures and manages the acquisition of library materialsCreates and maintains catalog records for library materials
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of vendors, budgeting, and collection development; often requires a master's in library scienceExpertise in cataloging standards (e.g., MARC, RDA); MLS or MLIS degree
Work EnvironmentLibraries, academic institutions, public librariesLibraries, archives, information centers

Library Acquisitions focuses on obtaining and managing library collections, while Library Cataloging involves creating detailed records for those materials. Both roles require a background in library science and often work together to ensure a well-organized collection.

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Library Acquisitions jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Acquisitions job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,667 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

AY Library Acquisitions and Resource Management Student Worker (WS-ST1)

St Olaf College

Northfield, MN • On-site

$12 - $13/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description


Job Title: Library Acquisitions & Resource Management Student Worker (WS-ST1)
Classification: Student Employee (non-exempt)
Name and Address of Employer: St. Olaf College, 1520 St. Olaf Ave, Northfield, MN 55057
Department Name: St. Olaf Libraries Acquisitions & Resource Management Unit Number (5 digits): 14001
Length of Position: See Employment Authorization
Contact Person/Supervisor: Library Acquisitions Associate
Wage Range: $12.00 - $13.00/hour
Description of the Position: (Purpose of the Position): To assist library staff with routine, daily library operations, and helping manage St. Olaf Library's catalogue of resources.
Transferable Skills:
• Organization and Attention to Detail
• Time-Management
• Creative Thinking and Independent Work
• Adaptability
Duties and Responsibilities:
• Support library work by managing library resources. Accomplished through ensuring visibility, relevance to teaching on campus, and assisting with intake of new materials.
• Working independently throughout the library to complete projects as assigned.
• Assist patrons as needed
• Learn to read and understand the Library of Congress Numbering System
• Responsible for escalating more complex issues to library staff for resolution
• Assist Library staff with a variety of projects as assigned
Qualifications: (Education/Experience/Skills)
• Physical ability to stand for up to 1 hour; bend, lift up to 40 pounds, unpack and shelve books, push a loaded book cart, and to read book labels with small font.
• Basic computer skills; knowledge of spreadsheets a plus
• Ability to work well independently and as part of a team
• Must demonstrate good communication skills
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
Physical and Environmental Factors: This position requires crouching, stooping, twisting/pivoting, reaching overhead, grasping/handling, pushing/pulling, and lifting and carrying objects up to 40 lbs. to perform the essential functions. It also requires exposure to respiratory factors and proximity hazards, as well as rare exposure to heights or cramped quarters. Candidates must possess the ability to safely perform the physical work required of all duties with or without reasonable accommodation.
This job description is for general information purposes. It is not intended to list all duties and responsibilities of the position. This job description is subject to change at any time by St. Olaf College, with or without prior notice.

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