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Library Archivist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Arlington County, VA

Archival Supervisor

Arlington, VA · On-site

$93.50K - $144.89K/yr

Arlington County's Public Library is seeking an innovative and experienced Archival Supervisor to manage the Charlie Clark Center for Local History (CCCLH.) The CCCLH collects, preserves, and shares ...

Liberty

Archives Student Worker Assistant - JFL

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

They will support one or more of the departments within the Jerry Falwell Library. ESSENTIAL ... This position reports to the Archivist and the Archives Specialists. Enters and retrieves materials ...

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$28.3K

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How much do library archivist jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for library archivist in Virginia is $72,157.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $82,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are library archivists?

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 type of archivist makes the most money?

Among archivists, those specializing in digital or electronic records tend to earn higher salaries due to the technical skills required. Archivists working in large institutions or with specialized collections, such as corporate or government archives, also often have higher earning potential. Advanced certifications and experience can further increase salary prospects for archivists in these fields.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Library Archivist jobs in Virginia? For Library Archivist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Archivist jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Library Archivist jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Library Archivist jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Library Archivist job openings:
Library Archivist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Archivist job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 12% Internship, 5% As Needed, 19% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 57% Temporary, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,157 per year, or $34.7 per hour.

Archival Supervisor

Arlington County, VA

Arlington, VA • On-site

$93.50K - $144.89K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Description
IMPORTANT NOTICE: Arlington County requires all applicants to thoroughly complete each section of the application, including prior job responsibilities, duties, and supplemental questions. While you may attach a resume, it will not replace a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Arlington County's Public Library is seeking an innovative and experienced Archival Supervisor to manage the Charlie Clark Center for Local History (CCCLH.) The CCCLH collects, preserves, and shares resources that illustrate Arlington County's history, diversity, and communities.
We invite candidates who have proven leadership skills, are strategic thinkers and problem solvers, have strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills, and are dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive space for culture and connection.
Responsibilities
Specific duties include:
  • Directing the unit's strategy and implementation of services, programs, events, outreach, and collaborative external partnerships;
  • Providing mentorship, leadership, and management to professional staff, including development, training, and performance evaluations;
  • Leading archival collection development through acquisition, processing, and preservation of physical and digital materials;
  • Developing and implementing unit policies, procedures and tools to improve processing, discovery, and access to content;
  • Developing and maintaining community contacts, including internal and external partners, and donors/potential donors;
  • Collecting data, preparing reports, and managing a budget for unit needs;
  • Providing in-depth research, reference and other services to patrons;
  • Coordinating and/or participating in Library and County committees or workgroups to further the Library's mission; and
  • Participating in training to maintain level of professional knowledge.

The ideal candidate will have the following:
  • Knowledge of MARC metadata standards and archival standards such as DACS, EAD, etc.;
  • An ability to manage multiple tasks, focus on Library system-wide and County priorities, work successfully within a team, and communicate effectively;
  • An awareness of current trends in libraries, archives, and technology, and a proven track record of innovation;
  • Experience as a change agent with a strong background in internal workgroup dynamics and performance management; and
  • An ability to make sustainability-conscious workplace decisions.

Qualifications
Minimum:
  • Master's Degree in Library Science from an ALA accredited college or university, or a Master's Degree in History, Anthropology, Museum Studies or related discipline with formal training in archival theory and practice; and
  • Significant experience in a library, museum, or similar setting performing archival or special collections work.

Desirables: Preference will be given to applicants with experience in one or more of the following:
  • Experience coordinating exhibits, events, and/or outreach;
  • Leading change efforts, leading a team to achieve strategic initiatives, and leveraging technology;
  • Developing or re-imagining services for a culturally diverse customer population;
  • Working cross departmentally or inter-agency to implement a major initiative, project or service;
  • Direct supervision and evaluation of staff performance; and/or
  • Bilingual English/Spanish

Special Requirements
As part of this application, please include a cover letter that describes in detail how your training, education and experience have prepared you for this position and how you meet the qualifications. Your cover letter should include:
  • A description of your experience coordinating exhibits, events, and/or outreach;
  • A description of your experience leading change efforts, leading a team to achieve strategic initiatives, and leveraging technology;
  • A description of your experience developing or reimagining services for a culturally diverse customer population;
  • A description of your work cross-departmentally or inter-agency to implement a major initiative, project, or service; and
  • An overview of your experience supervising and evaluating staff performance

Please use the space provided in the Supplemental Questions section of the online application for your cover letter or attach it to your online application.
Special Requirement:
Additional Information
Work location and hours of work: Full-time, 40 hours per week including some evening and weekend work. Actual work schedule is determined by the needs of the work location; assignment location could change over time.
The official title of this position is Archival Supervisor.
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