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Library Archivist Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Head of Library Experience

Boston, MA · On-site

$110 - $140/hr

... sources, data and archives as appropriate for course contexts, an ability to translate ... Master's degree in library and/or Information Science from an ALA-accredited program, or equivalent ...

Showing results 21-40

Library Archivist information

See Massachusetts salary details

$31.1K

$79.5K

$130K

How much do library archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for library archivist in Massachusetts is $79,486.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,500.00 and $91,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a library archivist?

Library archivists are professionals responsible for preserving, organizing, and providing access to historical documents, rare books, photographs, and other valuable records within a library setting. They assess, catalog, and maintain collections to ensure that important materials are preserved for future generations. Archivists also help researchers and the public locate and interpret archival resources, often using specialized knowledge of preservation techniques and digital archiving. Their work is essential for maintaining the integrity and accessibility of a library's unique and historical collections.

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

To thrive as a Library Archivist, you need expertise in archival science, information management, and preservation, usually supported by a master's degree in library science or a related field. Familiarity with archival management software, digital preservation systems, and cataloging standards like MARC or EAD is typically required. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and strong communication abilities help you manage collections and collaborate with researchers or colleagues. These skills ensure the accurate preservation, organization, and accessibility of valuable historical records for future generations.

What are some common challenges a library archivist faces when organizing and preserving collections?

Library Archivists often encounter challenges such as managing large volumes of materials with limited resources, dealing with deteriorating or fragile items, and ensuring that collections are both preserved for the future and accessible to present-day researchers. Balancing the need for digital access with the preservation of original formats is also a frequent concern. Collaborating with librarians, IT specialists, and researchers helps archivists prioritize preservation efforts and improve access to valuable materials.

What is the difference between Library Archivist vs Library Technician?

AspectLibrary ArchivistLibrary Technician
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Library Science or Archival StudiesAssociate's degree or relevant certification
Work EnvironmentArchives, special collections, museumsPublic and academic libraries, assisting patrons
Job FocusPreserving, organizing, and managing archival collectionsAssisting with cataloging, shelving, and customer service

The main difference is that Library Archivists focus on preserving and managing archival collections, often requiring advanced degrees, while Library Technicians support daily library operations and assist patrons, typically with less formal education.

How to become a library archivist?

To become a library archivist, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in history, library science, or a related field, with many positions requiring a master's degree in library and information science or archival studies. Gaining experience through internships or volunteer work, developing skills in cataloging, preservation, and digital archiving, and obtaining professional certifications can improve job prospects.

What are popular job titles related to Library Archivist jobs in Massachusetts?

For Library Archivist jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Library Archivist jobs in Massachusetts look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Archivist jobs in Massachusetts are:

What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Library Archivist jobs?

Cities in Massachusetts with the most Library Archivist job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Archivist job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,486 per year, or $38.2 per hour.

Head of Library Experience

Nelib

Boston, MA • On-site

$110 - $140/hr

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

The Boston University Libraries seek a highly collaborative and effective leader to join the libraries as the Head of Library Experience leading all facets of the library experience program including information literacy, student engagement and reference services. A member of the Academic Engagement Leadership Team and BU Libraries’ Leadership Team, this role reports to the Associate University Librarian for Academic Engagement and Special Collections and provides strategic and operational leadership of our scaffolded information literacy program, learning-object development, campus partnerships across academic and student services informing library orientation programs, student engagement, inclusion initiatives, and community‑building. The incumbent leads program assessment and data‑informed continuous improvement to ensure equitable access to library experience programming, and measurable student success, demonstrably connecting library resources to student life and curricular goals.

The Head supervises and mentors the Library Experience Manager and the Library Experience Coordinator and serves as the liaison to the College of General Studies and Kilachand Honors College.

Strong candidates will bring expertise in information literacy that spans published sources, data and archives as appropriate for course contexts, an ability to translate institutional priorities into concrete and achievable goals and outcomes. The incumbent will be a highly collaborative leader who will deepen partnerships with academic departments, faculty, student success programs, and student services (e.g., Newbury Center, Howard Thurman Center for Common Ground, First‑Year Success, Wellbeing, tutoring centers) to co-create programming that integrates library resources into student success pathways. Preference will be given to candidates equipped to lead the creation, curation, and maintenance of scalable online learning objects, tutorials, course guides, videos, and modular teaching materials for integration into the Course Management System, LibGuides, and Teaching Objects repositories.

Preference will also be given to candidates demonstrating commitment to the profession through sustained and progressive scholarship, creative expression, and service at the state, regional, national, or international level.

Required Skills:
  • Master's degree in library and/or Information Science from an ALA-accredited program, or equivalent professional experience, plus advanced degree in subject specialty.
  • 5-8 years of experience.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience in academic library instruction, reference services, or student engagement.
  • Must have sufficient experience and expertise in library leadership, management, and the work of a team/unit/department to serve as a supervisor, advisor and mentor.
  • Strong record of program development, assessment, and cross-campus partnership building.
  • Experience with in-person and online instruction.
  • Competence with information technologies and demonstrated effectiveness in integrating technology with traditional services and resources, particularly instruction.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, strong presentation, and customer service skills.
  • Excellent analytical and organizational skills.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team within a culturally diverse user community of faculty, students, staff, administrators, and the general public.
  • Capacity to thrive in a dynamic environment, respond effectively to shifting needs and priorities of library constituents, and afford a willingness to be flexible with liaison and selector assignments as appointed.
  • Flexible and forward-thinking approach to challenges and opportunities.
  • Demonstrable collaborative management style and commitment to exceptional user services.
  • Ability to cultivate an environment of trust, empathy, collaboration, and respect.
Preferred:
  • Advanced degree in a related field, or in curricular design.
  • Experience supervising librarians or professional staff.
  • Experience providing instructional services and outreach in an academic or research library environment.
  • Experience with curricular mapping and aligning instruction to general education competencies.
  • Familiarity with learning management systems and LibGuides.
  • Background in data literacy, digital literacies or pedagogy related to emerging technologies.
  • Grant‑writing or budget management experience.
  • Experience in a large research university environment.
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