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Library Acquisitions Jobs (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 ...

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How much do library acquisitions jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 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 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.
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What states have the most Library Acquisitions jobs?

States with the most job openings for Library Acquisitions jobs include:

Infographic showing various Library Acquisitions job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,667 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Acquisitions Librarian

Louisiana State University

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

All Job Postings will close at 12:01a.m. CST (1:01a.m. EST) on the specified Closing Date (if designated).
If you close the browser or exit your application prior to submitting, the application progress will be saved as a draft. You will be able to access and complete the application through "My Draft Applications" located on your Candidate Home page.
Job Posting Title:
Acquisitions Librarian
Position Type:
Faculty
Department:
LSUAM Lib - PS - Collection Management (Jacob Fontenot (00002518))
Work Location:
0030 LSU Library
Pay Grade:
Academic
Job Description:
The Acquisitions Librarian is responsible for all resource acquisitions operations for LSU Libraries. The Acquisitions Librarian will oversee efficient strategies and methodologies for obtaining and processing new print and electronic resources and content for both monographic and serial resources. This position will also foster partnerships with other library colleagues involved in collection development, budgeting, and resource discovery and access. The Acquisitions Librarian has overall responsibility for disbursement of the Libraries' acquisitions budget, working closely with the Head of Collection Services on budget administration and analysis. Provides supervision and guidance to unit staff, including training and professional development support. The Acquisitions Librarian regularly evaluates work methods and workflows considering new services and technological advancements to strengthen operations and purchasing relationships through innovative acquisition strategies and solutions. The Acquisitions Librarian initiates and maintains relationships with booksellers, subscription agents, and content providers.
Responsibilities:
  • 60% Acquisitions: Coordinate the ordering, receiving, and invoicing of print and electronic resources, including monographs, serials, databases, and streaming media. Ensure compliance with LSU and state procurement policies and maintain accurate acquisitions records in the library management system. Collaborate with Administrative Services to monitor and reconcile fund balances, review expenditures, and track budget allocations. Serve as liaison with vendors, publishers, and subscription agents to facilitate purchasing and resolve billing issues. Responsible for the accuracy and integrity of the acquisitions management information system. Maintain and update acquisitions workflows, documentation, and statistics; identify areas for improvement and propose solutions. Resolves complex acquisitions problems and applies knowledge of current issues and trends in acquisitions, scholarly communications, and the publishing industry to improve services. In collaboration with the Director of Collection Services, monitors library materials expenditures. Develops/analyzes statistical and financial data and prepares reports for Director of Collection Services, subject librarians and the Library administration.
  • 15% Assessment: Assists the Head of Collection Services in the collection, analysis, and presentation of acquisitions data for annual reporting, audits, and strategic collection planning. Support subject librarians by providing data and analysis on fund use, expenditure trends, and cost-per-use information. Stay informed of trends and best practices in acquisitions, scholarly publishing, and open access business models.
  • 10% Supervision & Staff Development: Supervise and mentor staff within the Collections and Resource Strategies department, setting performance goals and providing regular evaluations. Identify training and professional development needs to ensure staff maintain current knowledge of collection trends, tools, and practices.
  • 10% Performs service to the libraries, university, and/or profession.
  • 5% Performs other duties, as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:
Master's degree in Library & Information Science from an ALA-accredited program.
3 years related working experience and 1 year of supervisory experience.
Experience with acquisitions, electronic resources, serials, collection development, procurement, or finance in higher education or libraries. Experience with library services platforms such as SirsiDynix, Alma, GOBI, OCLC Connexion, or OCLC Worldshare.
Preferred Qualifications:
Knowledge of acquisitions functions including monographic ordering, approval plans, licensing, renewals for print and e-resources, invoicing, and accounting for library collection resources. Experience with library financial processes, vendor management, or university procurement systems. Knowledge of budget management, fund accounting, or fiscal reconciliation in a library context.
Additional Job Description:
Special Instructions:
"Please provide a cover letter, resume, and (3) professional references. Attach pdf document(s) under the ""Resume/CV"" section of your application.
A copy of your transcript(s) may be attached to your application. However, official transcripts are required prior to hire.
For questions or concerns regarding the status of your application or salary ranges, please contact libadminsvs@lsu.edu "
Skills Needed:
Preferred Skills:
Posting Date:
August 7, 2026
Closing Date (Open Until Filled if No Date Specified):
February 3, 2027
Additional Position Information:
Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.
Benefits - LSU offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!
Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University's partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.
Essential Position (Y/N):
LSU is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
All candidates must have valid U.S. work authorization at the time of hire and maintain that valid work authorization throughout employment. Changes in laws, regulations, or government policies may impact the university's ability to employ individuals in certain positions.
HCM Contact Information:
For questions or concerns related to updating your application with attachments (e.g., resumes, RS:17 documents), date of birth, or reactivating applications, please contact the LSU Human Resources Management Office at 225-578-8200 or email HR@lsu.edu. For questions or concerns regarding the status of your application or salary ranges, please contact the department using the information provided in the Special Instructions section of this job posting.