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Library Archivist Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Head of Mills Music Library

Madison, WI · On-site +1

$75K - $110K/yr

Library/Archive Manager I Job Summary: The Head of Mills Music Library serves as the University of Wisconsin-Madison Libraries' lead librarian for music and dance, overseeing all operations, services ...

... Archivist, serves as the primary facilities manager for University Archives and Records Management, and primary contact with Steenbock Library Building Manager. Often interacts with other campus ...

$9.3K - $13K/mo

... Libraries, Archives, and Museums Department Overview: The Department of English Anticipated Start Date: 08/24/2026 Anticipated End Date (If Applicable): 05/07/2027 Remote Work Eligibility Detail:

Sales Manager

Madison, WI · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Its library, archives and collections, historic sites and museums, historic preservation office, and extensive educational programs and community outreach are focused on our vision to enrich and ...

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Library Archivist information

See Wisconsin salary details

$28.8K

$73.5K

$120.1K

How much do library archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for library archivist in Wisconsin is $73,462.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $84,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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, government agencies, or with specialized collections also typically have higher pay. Advanced certifications and experience can further increase earning potential in this field.

How to become a library archivist?

To become a library archivist, typically a master's degree in library science, archival studies, or a related field is required. Relevant skills include knowledge of cataloging, preservation, and digital archiving tools, along with experience in managing collections. Certification from professional organizations can also enhance job prospects.

What qualifications do I need to be an archivist?

To become a library archivist, a bachelor's degree in history, library science, or a related field is typically required, often followed by a master's degree in library and information science or archival studies. Relevant skills include attention to detail, organization, and familiarity with archival management software; some positions may also require professional certification.

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 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 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 does an archivist do in a library?

A library archivist is responsible for preserving, organizing, and managing historical documents and records. They evaluate, catalog, and maintain collections using specialized tools and standards, ensuring long-term access and research usability.

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 popular job titles related to Library Archivist jobs in Wisconsin? For Library Archivist jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Library Archivist job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% Internship, 13% As Needed, 27% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 40% Temporary, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 23% Physical, and 77% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,462 per year, or $35.3 per hour.

Head of Mills Music Library

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, WI • On-site, Remote

$75K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


University Of Wisconsin-Madison rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

123rd of 614 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.
Job Category:
Academic Staff
Employment Type:
Regular
Job Profile:
Library/Archive Manager I
Job Summary:
The Head of Mills Music Library serves as the University of Wisconsin-Madison Libraries' lead librarian for music and dance, overseeing all operations, services, and staff of the music library. Reporting to the Associate Dean for Collections, the position provides strategic direction for the library, establishes departmental priorities, and leads a team of four full-time staff with responsibilities spanning archival processing, audio digitization, specialized research support, and instructional services. A major emphasis of the role is the development, stewardship, and management of extensive music and dance collections, including rare and unique special collections and archival materials for the Wisconsin Music Archives. The position also advances services that support digital scholarship, composition, and creative work, ensuring that the library's collections and expertise foster innovation in teaching, performance, and research.
The Head of Mills Music Library oversees all collection development activities and collection funds for music and dance, manages donor relations and gifts-in-kind, and identifies grant opportunities to support library and campus initiatives. The role directs preservation, technical services, and digitization projects and provides expert guidance on copyright and fair use. Acting as the primary liaison to the Mead Witter School of Music, the Dance Department, and related programs, the position provides advanced research services, leads instructional and outreach activities, and strengthens connections between the libraries and the broader Madison music and dance communities. The role also includes ongoing professional development, participation in professional organizations, and service on library and campus committees to advance the mission of the Libraries. The UW-Madison Libraries lead in curating, preserving, and sharing knowledge through environments that inspire engagement, discovery, and learning. The Libraries deliver exemplary information services to advance the mission and strategic priorities of one of the nation's leading research universities. Shared values at Libraries include respect, inclusion, communication, collaboration, and empowerment.
This position is eligible for partial remote work. A remote work agreement may allow for a maximum of 20% remote per week.
This position is full-time, 100%.
Ongoing/Renewable
Key Job Responsibilities:
  • Actively participate in an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful workplace (5%)
  • Collaborates with other managers to develop and implement initiatives and technological enterprises which directly affect the libraries (5%)
  • Oversees day-to-day management of unit operations, services, and space (15%)
  • Advances librarianship/archives at the campus, local, and state level through committee participation (10%)
  • Manages and implements collection development for the subjects of music and dance across a variety of formats (10%)
  • Communicates the strategic direction of the department as determined by leadership (5%)
  • Designs, develops, and provides leadership on projects, programs, procedures, and services (10%)
  • Resolves complex issues which may impact policies and procedures within the unit (5%)
  • May manage the operating budget (5%)
  • Performs and directs research services related to music and dance for university faculty, staff, students, and other Library patrons (10%)
  • May supervise unit personnel. May hire, train, coach, and evaluate employees to manage and improve performance (20%)

Department:
Libraries, Music Library
Compensation:
Starting salary will be based on experience and qualifications. Well-qualified applicants can anticipate earning between $75,000-$110,000 with final salary based on experience and qualifications.
This position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including generous paid time off, competitively priced health/dental/vision/life insurance, tax-advantaged savings accounts, and participation in the nationally recognized Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) pension fund. For a summary of benefits, please see https://www.wisconsin.edu/ohrwd/benefits/download/fasl.pdf. Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and sick leave; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits. Benefits information can be found at (https://hr.wisc.edu/benefits/).
Required Qualifications:
  • At least three years of professional experience working in an academic or research library
  • Demonstrated knowledge and experience in music librarianship
  • Proven experience with public services in an academic or research library
  • Experience with collection development in an academic or research library
  • Supervisory experience or experience leading teams or projects
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, faculty, students, and other stakeholders

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience working with historic collections such as archives, historic audio formats, and realia
  • Experience with digital initiatives such as digitization, digital humanities, and digital arts projects
  • Experience engaging with donors

Education:
Master's Degree Required in Library Sciences, Library Information Services, or related field Required, or PhD in relevant field.
How to Apply:
Click the "Apply" button to start the application process. You will be prompted to upload the following documents:
  • Resume
  • Cover Letter

Applicants should attach a cover letter and resume detailing their training and experience relating to the required and preferred qualifications referenced above. The application reviewers will be relying on written application materials to determine which qualified applicants will advance in the recruitment process.
References will be requested from finalists only and are not required with the initial application. Reference requests will be sent via email from SkillSurvey.
Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without need of employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of appointment.
Contact Information:
Abram Hopp, abram.hopp@wisc.edu, (608) 890-1795
Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. See RELAY_SERVICE for further information.
Institutional Statement on Diversity:
Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgrounds and encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.
To request a disability or pregnancy-related accommodation for any step in the hiring process (e.g., application, interview, pre-employment testing, etc.), please contact the Divisional Disability Representative (DDR) in the division you are applying to. Please make your request as soon as possible to help the university respond most effectively to you.
Employment may require a criminal background check. It may also require your references to answer questions regarding misconduct, including sexual violence and sexual harassment.
The University of Wisconsin System will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).
The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report contains current campus safety and disciplinary policies, crime statistics for the previous 3 calendar years, and on-campus student housing fire safety policies and fire statistics for the previous 3 calendar years. UW-Madison will provide a paper copy upon request; please contact the University of Wisconsin Police Department.

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About University of Wisconsin

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The University of Wisconsin, based in Madison, WI, US, functions in the educational industry and is a renowned and respected institution for higher education. Its official website is wisc.edu. Established in 1848, this public research university is recognized globally for its innovative approach to education, research, creativity, and public service. It embodies a strong commitment to academic freedom and academic excellence. As a major contributor to the Wisconsin Idea, it aims to accomplish its mission of generating well-rounded individuals who will contribute substantially to society, the local community, and the global economy.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Madison, WI, US

Year founded

2005