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Library Acquisitions Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ensures that all repertoire, library acquisitions, instrumentation details, performance history, and other special needs are accurately noted and input. Highlights any unusual requirements ...

Ensures that all repertoire, library acquisitions, instrumentation details, performance history, and other special needs are accurately noted and input. Highlights any unusual requirements ...

Following established procedures, assists with the library procurement/acquisition process. * Assists in implementing programs, publicity, and the marketing of library services. * Performs other ...

Following established procedures, assists with the library procurement/acquisition process. * Assists in implementing programs, publicity, and the marketing of library services. * Performs other ...

Library Aid

Roseville, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Following established procedures, assists with the library procurement/acquisition process. * Assists in implementing programs, publicity, and the marketing of library services. * Performs other ...

New

Performs clerical and technical library work, including tasks in the areas of circulation and reference, acquisitions, and technical services. Opens and closes library in accordance with scheduled ...

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Library Acquisitions information

See California salary details

$9

$20

$33

How much do library acquisitions jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for library acquisitions in California is $20.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 does a Library Acquisitions librarian do?

A Library Acquisitions librarian is responsible for selecting, ordering, and purchasing new materials such as books, journals, and digital resources for the library. They manage vendor relationships, track budgets, and ensure that the library's collection remains current and relevant, often using library management systems to facilitate these tasks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Library Acquisitions jobs in California?

The most popular types of Library Acquisitions jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Library Acquisitions jobs in California?

For Library Acquisitions jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Library Acquisitions jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Acquisitions jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Library Acquisitions jobs?

Cities in California with the most Library Acquisitions job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Acquisitions job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,108 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Acquisitions and Electronic Collections Management Assistant

University of San Diego

San Diego, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago


University Of San Diego rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

458th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Acquisitions and Electronic Collections Management Assistant

Apply now Posting #: 5673
Position Status: Full-time regular
Location: San Diego
Position Type: Staff, Copley Library

Position Title & Department:

 Acquisitions and Electronic Collections Management Assistant; Copley Library Posting #

5673

Department Description:

The Helen K. and James S. Copley Library, located on the west end of the campus, currently houses over 500,000 volumes. Collections include books, journals, reference works, databases, government documents, newspapers and electronic journals in many languages, as well as maps, videos, sound recordings, microforms and rare books.

University Description:

The University of San Diego, an engaged and contemporary Catholic institution, was founded by the Diocese of San Diego and the Society of the Sacred Heart in 1949. Governed by an independent board of trustees since 1972, USD remains committed to a liberal arts education grounded in the Catholic intellectual tradition and the pursuit of truth, goodness and beauty. Inspired by this centuries old tradition of Catholic higher education, the University welcomes people of all faith traditions and any, or no, religious background. The future success of USD relies on the contributions of those who seek to foster the development of engaged global citizens and an earnest confrontation of humanity's urgent challenges.

Detailed Description:

Reporting to the Senior Electronic and Open Content Librarian in coordination with the Head of Collections, Access, and Discovery, the Acquisitions and Electronic Collections Management Assistant oversees payment for library materials and assists with the maintenance and assessment of library electronic resources. This position works closely with the Senior Electronic and Open Content Librarian, the Head of Collections, Access, and Discovery, the Budget and Operations Manager, campus Accounts Payable and Procurement departments, and library vendors to ensure timely placement, set up, payment, and receipt of electronic resource orders. This position analyzes, tracks, and manages a variety of data used in the library acquisitions process, including budget and usage data, to support informed acquisition decisions. The role also assists the Senior Electronic and Open Content Librarian with maintaining Copley Library's continuing e-resources collections. Additionally, the position coordinates with the Continuing Resources and Licensing Assistant to oversee up to four work-study students. This position works onsite.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Invoice Processing and Budget Tracking:                                                 

  • Promptly receives, verifies, and processes library materials invoices and credits in the Alma Ex Libris Integrated Library System (ILS) for timely export to the university accounting system.
  • Performs monthly library acquisition expense reconciliation.
  • Tracks and anticipates invoice renewal schedule for regular library subscriptions.
  • Coordinates with other departments on campus to ensure payment for shared invoices.
  • Maintains order and invoice records for library resources  and communicates with vendors to update records.
  • Works closely with the Senior Electronic and Open Content Librarian to track library resource payment statuses, update payment records, and communicate with the Budget and Operations Manager and Accounts Payable on discrepancies or errors.
  • Provides updates and reports on projected library expenditures as needed to library management.
  • Works with Procurement and library vendors to maintain and update vendor payment profiles in ILS and the university procurement platform.
  • Stays up-to-date with current university, state, and federal tax requirements.

Usage Data Management and Collections Assessment:                         

  • Harvests and compiles usage data from library vendors and maintains library usage reporting platform.
  • Assists Senior Electronic and Open Content Librarian with analyzing usage, budget, and related library resources data across combined datasets to support informed collection assessment decision-making.
  • Creates and compiles usage reports for internal and external sharing with various groups.

E-resources Acquisitions and Access                                                       

  • Assists Senior Electronic and Open Content Librarian with activation of electronic resource orders, including e-journals, databases, e-book packages, and open access collections.
  • Oversees update notifications in ILS related to electronic collections access.
  • Provides coverage as needed for basic troubleshooting related to technical issues with accessing electronic resources.

General and Miscellaneous Duties:                                                             

  • Coordinates with Continuing Resources and Licensing Assistant to hire, train, supervise, and evaluate up to four work study student assistants.
  • Participates in library activities and committees.
  • Maintains technical knowledge by attending education workshops, etc.
  • Maintains and revises documentation.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Special Conditions of Employment:

Background check:  Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.

Degree Verification Requirement: Persons offered employment in this position will be required to provide official education transcripts for degree verification purposes. 

Job Requirements:

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree required.  Substitution: A high school diploma plus two years of work experience may substitute for the degree requirement.
  • Foundational Excel skills required.
  • Adaptable and analytical approach to problem-solving required.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Previous accounting or budget experience preferred.
  • Previous academic library or acquisitions related work experience preferred.
  • Experience with Ex Libris Alma and Workday preferred.
  • One year supervisory or leadership experience preferred.

Performance Expectations - Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Organizes, prioritizes, and performs detail-oriented tasks.
  • Maintains consistent accuracy and quality during routine work.
  • Writes clearly and concisely for diverse internal and external teams.
  • Excellent, practical computer skills; able to research and find information online.
  • Aptitude and willingness to learn intermediate spreadsheet functions.
  • Works effectively with different teams to problem-solve together.
  • Works independently with guided autonomy.
  • Works with and safeguards confidential information.
  • Demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning and to current trends related to job duties.
  • Enforces and follows Copley Library and University policies.
Posting Salary:

$21.82 - $28.02 per hour; Excellent Benefits
The University of San Diego offers a very competitive benefits package including; medical, dental, vision, a retirement contribution given to you by the University, and access to on-campus Fitness Centers.  Please visit the benefits section of our website to view all of the perks and benefits that USD has to offer.  USD: Human Resources: Benefits

The salary range provided in this posting reflects what we reasonably expect to pay for this position.  Actual compensation offered or earned is dependent on experience, education and other factors including departmental budget.

Special Application Instructions:

Resume and Cover Letter Required

Click the 'Apply Now' button to complete our online application. In addition, please upload a cover letter and resume to your application profile for the hiring managers' review.  If you have any questions or difficulties please contact the Employment Services Team at jobs@sandiego.edu.

 
Additional Details:

Hours: 37.5 hours per week

Closing date: Open until filled 

Note: External job postings will be up for at least three days. After that time, applications will be reviewed by the hiring manager/committee throughout the posting period. A candidate may be selected at any time which could then close this posting on a date earlier than listed.
The University of San Diego is a smoking and tobacco-free campus. For more information, visit www.sandiego.edu/smokefree.

Advertised: August 07, 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close:

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