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Library Acquisitions Assistant Jobs in Springfield, VA

Reference Librarian

Washington, DC · On-site

$48K - $58K/yr

Collection Development Support: o Assist in evaluating, selecting, and maintaining library ... new acquisitions based on user needs and academic requirements. • Technology Support and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Library Acquisitions Assistant information

See Springfield, VA salary details

$33.9K

$72.4K

$184.4K

How much do library acquisitions assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for library acquisitions assistant in Springfield, VA is $72,397.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,300.00 and $80,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a library acquisitions assistant?

Library Acquisitions Assistants are support professionals who help manage the process of obtaining books, periodicals, digital resources, and other materials for a library. They work closely with librarians and vendors to identify needed resources, place orders, track shipments, and process invoices. Their responsibilities may also include maintaining acquisition records, assisting with budget management, and ensuring new materials are properly cataloged and made available to patrons. This role is essential for keeping library collections up-to-date and ensuring that users have access to requested and relevant materials.

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

To thrive as a Library Acquisitions Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with bibliographic and cataloging standards, typically supported by a degree or coursework in library science or a related field. Proficiency with integrated library systems (ILS), acquisitions software, and online databases is essential. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork are valuable soft skills for collaborating with vendors and library staff. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate, efficient acquisition and processing of library materials, which directly impacts the library's ability to serve its patrons.

What are some common challenges faced by a library acquisitions assistant, and how can they be managed?

Library Acquisitions Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple purchase requests, tracking orders from various vendors, and ensuring timely receipt of materials. Balancing priorities and maintaining accurate records can be demanding, especially during peak acquisition periods or budget cycles. Effective communication with librarians, vendors, and finance departments helps alleviate these challenges, as does familiarity with library management systems and organizational procedures. Staying organized and proactive in problem-solving are key to success in this role.

What is the difference between Library Acquisitions Assistant vs Library Cataloging Assistant?

AspectLibrary Acquisitions AssistantLibrary Cataloging Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles prefer library science courseworkHigh school diploma; coursework in library science or related field beneficial
Work EnvironmentLibraries, archives, or media centers involved in procurement and collection developmentLibraries or archives focusing on organizing and cataloging collections
Employer & Industry UsagePublic, academic, or special libraries involved in acquiring materialsLibraries and archives managing cataloging and classification tasks
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles in library support staff focusing on acquisitionsCompared for roles in cataloging and metadata management

The Library Acquisitions Assistant primarily handles procurement and collection development, while the Library Cataloging Assistant focuses on organizing and cataloging library materials. Both roles support library operations but differ in their core responsibilities and skill sets.

What job categories do people searching Library Acquisitions Assistant jobs in Springfield, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Acquisitions Assistant jobs in Springfield, VA are:

What cities near Springfield, VA are hiring for Library Acquisitions Assistant jobs?

Cities near Springfield, VA with the most Library Acquisitions Assistant job openings:

$70K - $158K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Summary
The primary purpose of this position is to support the JMD Library Staff's acquisition of general and legal research materials in multiple formats - print and electronic - and subscription databases; and to provide acquisitions and financial reporting support to the DOJ customers of the Staff's Library Acquisitions Services Working Capital Fund program.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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The duties and responsibilities for a Librarian (Acquisitions), GS-1410-9/11/12/13 generally include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Managing the Library's procurement and contracting programs, including placing orders, establishing and monitoring publication contracts, resolving procurement problems, and developing acquisitions program policies and procedures
  • Assist with the management of the Library's budget and financial programs, including analyzing historical data and serving as the liaison to other agency offices for budget and financial matters
  • Compile and prepare Library acquisitions and budgetary data and reports and prepares budget estimates
  • Prepare, process, and maintain Library acquisition and financial documents
  • Research past and current information for pre- and post-contractual information requirements and resolve financial discrepancies
  • Analyze and solve complex financial problems using a wide variety of sources
  • Develop reports and documentation in response to audit findings and new government-wide and Department of Justice initiatives

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • You must be a United States Citizen or National.
  • You will be required to complete a pre-employment security investigation and background check which includes a drug screening.
  • You may be required to complete a one-year probationary period. See "Additional Information" section for specific details.
  • Selective Service registration is required for males born on, or after, December 31st 1959. Those not registered should have an approved exemption on file.
  • Financial Disclosure: If selected, you may be required to disclose financial information in accordance with DOJ and Federal ethics guidelines.
  • A USA Hire assessment is required. An email will be sent with additional information after you submit your application. You will have 48 hours from the closing date of this announcement to complete the assessment.

Qualifications
To qualify for the position of Librarian (Acquisition), at GS-1410-9/11/12/13, you must meet the qualification requirements listed below.
BASIC REQUIREMENT:
Applicants must meet the requirements specified in paragraphs A or B below.
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 a 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.
AND
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE OR EDUCATION OR COMBINATION FOR GS-09 OR GS-11:
For the GS-09, you must meet the possess at least 1 year (52 weeks) of specialized experience at the GS-7 level or equivalent. Specialized experience is defined as: 1) Assisting in monitoring publication contracts; AND 2) Assisting in resolving librarian procurement problems.
OR
Education: You must possess 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. (MUST SUBMIT TRANSCRIPTS)
OR
Combination of Experience and Education: A combination of education and experience may be used to qualify for this position as long as the computed percentage of the requirements is at least 100%. (MUST SUBMIT TRANSCRIPTS)
For the GS-11, you must meet the possess at least 1 year (52 weeks) of specialized experience at the GS-9 level or equivalent. Specialized experience is defined as: 1) Assisting in order processing for library materials in multiple formats; AND 2) Assisting in analyzing library acquisitions or financial reporting;
OR
Education: You must possess 3 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education in library science or doctoral degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) related to the position. (MUST SUBMIT TRANSCRIPTS)
OR
Combination of Experience and Education: A combination of education and experience may be used to qualify for this position as long as the computed percentage of the requirements is at least 100%. (MUST SUBMIT TRANSCRIPTS)
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE FOR GS-12 OR GS-13:
For the GS-12, you must meet the possess at least 1 year (52 weeks) of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent. Specialized experience is defined as: 1) Assisting in administering the Library Staff's procurement and contracting programs; 2) Analyzing library acquisitions or financial reporting; AND 3) Assisting in researching solutions or options for contractual or financial library acquisition issues.
For the GS-13, you must meet the possess at least 1 year (52 weeks) of specialized experience at the GS-12 level or equivalent. Specialized experience is defined as: 1) Managing an automated integrated library system such as Voyager or Momentum; 2) Administering the Library Staff's procurement and contracting programs; 3) Providing acquisitions or financial reporting support to Library Acquisitions Services stakeholders; AND 4) Recommending resolutions of contractual or financial library acquisitions issues.
You MUST meet all qualification requirements by the 09/07/2026 of this announcement.
Your resume must support your responses to the online questionnaire and the qualification requirements. Failure to do so may result in an ineligible rating.See the Required Documents section for important notes about what must be included in your resume.
After you submit your application, you will receive notification indicated whether or not the USA Hire assessment is required. You will have 48 hours from the closing date of this announcement 09/07/2026 to complete the assessment which is part of your application.
Education
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements, please see the statements below.
Education must be reviewed and certified by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, in order for it to be creditable towards your qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from accredited institution.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in a conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying. For special instructions pertaining to foreign education and a list of organizations that can evaluate foreign education, see the Department of Education website. If you are qualifying on foreign education, you MUST submit proof of creditability of education as evaluated by a credentialing agency. All documentation must be in English or include an English translation.
Additional information
Additional selections may be made from this announcement.
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. Candidates will not be hired based on their race, sex, color, religion, or national origin.
Career Transition Programs (CTAP or ICTAP):
These programs apply to Federal and/or DOJ employees who meet the definition of surplus or displaced from a position in the competitive service. To receive selection priority for this position, you must:
  1. Meet CTAP or ICTAP eligibility criteria;
  2. Be rated well-qualified for the position with a score of 85 or above based on the competencies listed below; and
  3. Submit the appropriate documentation to support your CTAP or ICTAP eligibility.

Probationary Period: As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you may be required to serve a 1-year As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you may be required to serve a 1-year probationary period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider:
1) your performance and conduct;
2) the needs and interests of the agency;
3) whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and
4) whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.
Upon completion of your probationary period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
EEO Statement/Policy: The United States government does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service or other non-merit factor. More information can be found here: EEO Statement.
DOJ Reasonable Accommodation Policy: Federal agencies must provide reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities where appropriate. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the hiring agency directly. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis. The DOJ Reasonable Accommodation policy can be found here: Reasonable Accommodation
Selective Service: If you were born male, on or after December 31, 1959, you must certify that you have registered with the Selective Service System or are exempt from having to do so under the Selective Service Law. Additional information is found at: Selective Service.
Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs: The Fair Chance Act prohibits Federal agencies from requesting an applicant's criminal history information before the agency makes a conditional offer of employment. If you believe a DOJ employee or Federal contractor acting on its behalf has violated your rights under this Act, you may submit a written complaint within 30 days of the date of the alleged non-compliance directly to the contact listed below.Note: In accordance with 5 U.S. Code § 9202(c) and 5 C.F.R § 920.201(b) certain positions are exempt from the provisions of the Fair Chance Act.
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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.
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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.