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Library Acquisitions Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Assisting in the acquisition of resources for the library's collections. Percent of Time: 37% * Using the library services platform (LSP) and standard library tools to perform bibliographic ...

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 ...

Laupus Library also serves as a secondary resource of health care information for the local community. At Laupus, we emphasize proactive information provision including the acquisition of current and ...

Laupus Library also serves as a secondary resource of health care information for the local community. At Laupus, we emphasize proactive information provision including the acquisition of current and ...

Monitor market trends in academic publishing, used-book pricing, and library acquisitions to stay ahead of supply opportunities * Build relationships with key stakeholders across the academic ...

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Library Acquisitions information

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How much do library acquisitions jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 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 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 are 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 acquisitions in a library?

In a library, acquisitions refer to the process of selecting, ordering, and receiving new materials such as books, journals, and digital resources. Library acquisitions staff manage budgets, evaluate materials, and ensure timely addition of resources to meet user needs.

What does an acquisitions librarian do?

An acquisitions librarian is responsible for selecting, ordering, and acquiring new materials for a library, such as books, journals, and digital resources. They evaluate vendors, manage budgets, and ensure that the collection meets the library's needs, often using library management systems. Strong organizational skills and knowledge of cataloging standards are essential for this role.

What is the highest paying library job?

The highest paying library job is typically a Library Director or Chief Librarian, with salaries often exceeding $80,000 to $150,000 annually depending on the size and location of the institution. These roles require advanced degrees, leadership skills, and experience managing library operations and budgets.

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 do you need to be an acquisition librarian?

To become an acquisition librarian, a bachelor's degree in library science, information management, or a related field is typically required, often followed by a master's degree in library and information science (MLIS). Relevant skills include collection development, knowledge of cataloging systems, and experience with library management tools; some positions may also require certification or specialized training.
More about Library Acquisitions jobs
What cities are hiring for Library Acquisitions jobs? Cities with the most Library Acquisitions job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Library Acquisitions jobs? The most popular types of Library Acquisitions jobs are:
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% 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.
Library Associate - Acquisitions Section

Library Associate - Acquisitions Section

New Mexico Highlands University

Las Vegas, NM • On-site

Other

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY
The Library Associate acquires, receives, and process materials necessary to support the instruction, research and public services programs outlined by the University and the Library. The Library Associate is responsible for copy cataloging various types of materials and organizing/prioritizing work.
DESCRIPTION
Oversee the book budget by using automated library systems, ChromeRiver, Banner and other needed software;
Prepare check requests, purchase requisitions and purchase orders, and reconcile invoices;
Place orders with vendors using our library systems software;
Oversee work-study students for acquisitions and cataloging;
Order division supplies;
Correspond and communicate with vendors;
Perform searches in OCLC and LIBROS (Library OPAC);
Oversee the physical preparation of materials, book covers, security stripes, barcoding, stamping, placing appropriate labels;
Prepare monthly and as-needed financial reports;
Train and schedule technicians, clerical workers and student assistants;
Edit fund and acquisitions data in our online catalog;
Develop and maintain current acquisitions procedures;
On a rotational basis, provide assistance at the Reference Desk well as provide research assistance to patrons in-person and via phone, mail, email, videoconference, and chat;
Facilitate access to the Library's collection through the LIBROS consortium's integrated library system (ILS), by providing descriptive bibliographic records of the collection, primarily organized by subject classification;
Assist with adding, editing, replacing or deleting Integrated Library System (ILS) records and item records to make complete bibliographic information available to library patrons;
Maintain and improve access to Library materials by updating and correcting bibliographic and item records;
Keep statistics on library tasks performed each month;
Assist librarians in maintaining a quality catalog;
Attend workshops, take online courses, and use available resources to develop job skills;
Maintain regular attendance;
Assist with archives projects under supervision of the Librarian - Head of Cataloging and Archives
Perform any other library related activity as instructed by the Collection and Instruction Librarian.
JOB SUMMARY
The Library Associate acquires, receives, and process materials necessary to support the instruction, research and public services programs outlined by the University and the Library. The Library Associate is responsible for copy cataloging various types of materials and organizing/prioritizing work.
DESCRIPTION
Oversee the book budget by using automated library systems, ChromeRiver, Banner and other needed software;
Prepare check requests, purchase requisitions and purchase orders, and reconcile invoices;
Place orders with vendors using our library systems software;
Oversee work-study students for acquisitions and cataloging;
Order division supplies;
Correspond and communicate with vendors;
Perform searches in OCLC and LIBROS (Library OPAC);
Oversee the physical preparation of materials, book covers, security stripes, barcoding, stamping, placing appropriate labels;
Prepare monthly and as-needed financial reports;
Train and schedule technicians, clerical workers and student assistants;
Edit fund and acquisitions data in our online catalog;
Develop and maintain current acquisitions procedures;
On a rotational basis, provide assistance at the Reference Desk well as provide research assistance to patrons in-person and via phone, mail, email, videoconference, and chat;
Facilitate access to the Library's collection through the LIBROS consortium's integrated library system (ILS), by providing descriptive bibliographic records of the collection, primarily organized by subject classification;
Assist with adding, editing, replacing or deleting Integrated Library System (ILS) records and item records to make complete bibliographic information available to library patrons;
Maintain and improve access to Library materials by updating and correcting bibliographic and item records;
Keep statistics on library tasks performed each month;
Assist librarians in maintaining a quality catalog;
Attend workshops, take online courses, and use available resources to develop job skills;
Maintain regular attendance;
Perform any other library related activity as instructed by the Collection and Instruction Librarian.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Sitting: Frequently
Standing: Occasionally
Walking: Occasionally
Bending: Occasionally
Squatting: Occasionally
Climbing: Occasionally
Kneeling: Occasionally
Lifting up to 40 pounds: Occasionally
Repetitive hand motions, prolonged use of computer: Frequently
WORKING ENVIRONMENT
Work is performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
Work with frequent interruptions.
Work in dirty/dusty conditions occasionally.
Occasionally work around fumes/odors.
Minimum Qualifications
EDUCATION: Bachelor's Degree from an accredited university.
EXPERIENCE: Two (2) years of library, clerical, or customer service experience.
Preferred Qualifications
EXPERIENCE:
Library experience in Acquisitions
Experience or classes in original and/or copy cataloging
Preferred Skills
Use of bibliographic library systems;
Windows-based operating systems; Microsoft office products;
Ability to demonstrate excellent analytical, problem-solving and organizational skills;
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both oral and written;
Supervisory experience;
Demonstrate a commitment to working in a team environment as well as commitment to diversity, continuous improvement and the university philosophy;
University's accounting procedures;
Library of Congress subject headings and classification schedules;
Standard library routines and procedures;
Ability to train technicians, clerical workers or student assistants;
Bibliographic utilities such as OCLC and library automation systems;
Detail-oriented with ability to work with accuracy and speed;
Ability to work independently and perform well with others.