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Library Archive Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Archivist

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$29.48 - $38.32/hr

Mary Baker Eddy Library SUMMARY The Assistant Archivist is a full-time position that supports preservation, cataloging, registration, and research in collections of The Mary Baker Eddy Library (MBEL)

... Archives. * Represents HGSE and Gutman Library at Harvard Library's Shared Harvard E-Resources (SHAER) meetings and participates in other collaborative and coordinated collection development ...

... Archives. * Represents HGSE and Gutman Library at Harvard Library's Shared Harvard E-Resources (SHAER) meetings and participates in other collaborative and coordinated collection development ...

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Library Archive information

See Boston, MA salary details

$31K

$79.3K

$134.7K

How much do library archive jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for library archive in Boston, MA is $79,289.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,900.00 and $92,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some of the main challenges faced by professionals working in library archives?

Library archive professionals often face challenges such as preserving delicate or aging materials, managing large and diverse collections, and keeping up with the latest digitization technologies. Balancing the need for public access with the protection of fragile items is a daily responsibility. Additionally, archival staff frequently collaborate with librarians, historians, and IT specialists to organize, catalog, and make materials accessible to researchers and the general public.

What is a library archive?

Library archives are specialized collections within libraries that preserve, organize, and provide access to historical documents, rare books, manuscripts, photographs, and other primary source materials. Unlike general library collections, archives focus on unique or rare items that have enduring value for research and history. Archivists ensure these materials are carefully cataloged and maintained so that researchers and the public can access them for scholarship, genealogy, or cultural heritage purposes.

How to be a library archivist?

To become a library archivist, typically a bachelor's degree in library science, history, or a related field is required, often supplemented by a master's degree in archival studies or library science. Skills in cataloging, preservation, and familiarity with archival management software are essential, along with attention to detail and organizational abilities. Certification from professional organizations can enhance job prospects.

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

To thrive as a Library Archivist, you need a solid background in archival science, information management, and typically a master's degree in library science or a related field. Familiarity with digital archiving tools, cataloging systems like MARC or Dublin Core, and preservation technologies is essential. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the accurate preservation, organization, and accessibility of valuable historical and informational resources.
What are popular job titles related to Library Archive jobs in Boston, MA? For Library Archive jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Archive jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Library Archive jobs in Boston, MA are:
Infographic showing various Library Archive job openings in Boston, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Part Time, and 49% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,289 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

Archives and Special Collections Assistant (Library Assistant II)

Framingham State College

Framingham, MA โ€ข On-site

Other

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description


GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES:
Under the supervision of Archivist/Special Collections Librarian, the Archives and Special Collections Library Assistant (officially classified as Library Assistant II) works primarily in the Archives and Special Collections areas of the library.
See full Librarian Assistant classification specifications.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED:
Works under the general supervision and review of the Archivist/Special Collections Librarian.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED:
May supervise student workers and interns under direction of Archivist
EXAMPLES OF SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Assist with requests from faculty, staff, students, alumni, and outside patrons.
  • Supervise student workers, interns, and patrons using archival and special collections materials and the Special Collections Reading Room.
  • Assist with supervising students and interns assigned to archives/special collections.
  • Locate, retrieve, and return to proper locations archival materials in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Arrange, process, describe, and preserve archives, manuscript, and image collections, using established standards and local policies and procedures set by the Archivist/Special Collections Librarian.
  • Tracks and compiles patron usage statistics and logs on use of the archives and special collections.
  • Organizes and copies archival materials as needed.
  • Collaborate with Archivist/Special Collections Librarian on a wide range of initiatives, including physical and digital exhibits, preservation projects, special events, tours and class visits.
  • Enter data in and manage Excel and Access databases, and prepare lists using Microsoft Word.
  • Use standard archival and filing procedures to inventory collections, do filing, and create lists of Honors Thesis papers and other collections as needed.
  • Organize and prepare materials for digitization.
  • Attend department and library meetings, serve on appropriate staff work groups, and participate in necessary training.
  • Perform projects and other duties as assigned by supervisor.
  • Staff library front desk as assigned
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Works in library archives and special collections rooms and in office. Must have the ability to safely lift/move boxes and push book trucks of up to 40 pounds.
Requirements:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Applicants must have at least (A) one year of full-time, or equivalent part-time paraprofessional or clerical experience as a library assistant, preferably with archival and special collections in a library, museum, or similar context, or (B) any combination of the required experience and the substitution below.
Substitutions:
An Associate's degree or higher may be substituted for the required experience. *
*Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.
ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Detail-oriented and able to work with accuracy
  • Excellent organizational and planning skills
  • Proven ability to work independently and follow-through and resolve tasks and issues to completion
  • Able to ensure proper handling, care, storage, preservations, and tracking of collection items
  • Proficiency in use of the Internet, Excel, and other Microsoft Office products
  • Ability to understand and apply Library and university procedures and guidelines
  • Ability to prepare general reports
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse individuals and communities
  • Sound judgment, problem-solving skills, and the capacity to manage multiple projects effectively
  • Ability to safely lift boxes and push book trucks of up to 40 pounds.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Basic experience or understanding of archives and special collections
Experience handling or preserving rare or fragile documents, objects, and other materials
Additional Information:
This is a full-time, non-exempt, benefits-eligible position in the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) bargaining unit with a union title of Library Assistant II. The bi-weekly pay rate is $1,872.37 (grade 12, step 1).
Framingham State University conducts criminal history and sexual offender record checks on recommended finalists prior to final employment for all positions.
Framingham State University is an equal opportunity employer. The University considers all qualified candidates without regard to race, color, sex, age, national origin, disability status, Veteran status, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law.
Members of underrepresented or minoritized groups, women, veterans, persons with disabilities, and all persons committed to equity, diversity, and inclusive excellence are strongly encouraged to apply.
Application Instructions:
Candidates must apply online by submitting:
  • Cover Letter,
  • Resume/CV,
  • Names and contact information for three (3) professional references (references are not contacted automatically upon submission of application).

For best consideration, please submit application materials by July 27, 2026. The review of applications may continue beyond that date and until the position is filled, at the discretion of the search committee.
Framingham State University only accepts application materials through our online application system. We are unable to accept application materials through mail, email, fax, or hand delivery. If you experience technical issues with the online application process, please submit a helpdesk ticket.
Framingham State University understands that persons with specific disabilities may need assistance with the job application process and/or with the interview process. For confidential assistance, please contact the Human Resources Office at 508-626-4530 or humanresources@framingham.edu.