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Library Archivist Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Christian Science

Assistant Archivist

Boston, MA · 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)

Boston College

Liaison Librarian

Chestnut Hill, MA · On-site

Designs and provides instruction in the effective use of library and archival resources for theological research. Selects materials and maintains the Theology and Ministry Library collections. Serves ...

Harvard University

Collections Librarian

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$57/hr

... 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 Archivist information

See Boston, MA salary details

$31K

$79.1K

$129.3K

How much do library archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for library archivist in Boston, MA is $79,065.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,200.00 and $90,700.00 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 Boston, MA? For Library Archivist jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Archivist jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Library Archivist jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Library Archivist jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Library Archivist job openings:
Library Archivist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Archivist job openings in Boston, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% Internship, 13% As Needed, 27% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 41% Temporary, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 22% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 77% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,065 per year, or $38 per hour.
Assistant Archivist

Assistant Archivist

Christian Science

Boston, MA • On-site

$29.48 - $38.32/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Department: 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).
MBEL is a trusted and authoritative resource on Eddy and the history of the Christian Science movement, providing public access to original materials and educational experiences about Eddy, the ideas she advanced, her writings, and the institutions she founded and their healing mission.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Archival Management Assistance (100%)
  • Follows archival standards and department policies and procedures to ensure the long-term care and preservation of the field and special collections
  • Practices proper handling of all collections materials
  • Catalogs collections items, creating records in collection management systems or editing existing records
  • Assists with responding to research queries about materials in the special collections
  • Develops and implements processing plans independently
  • Arranges and describes archival collections
  • Prepares finding aids and indexes to collections
  • Completes first reviews of previously unreviewed archival materials to determine whether they may be opened for research
  • Participates in large-scale collection processing, scanning, and deaccessioning projects
  • Digitizes documents, manuscripts, and rare books using archival standards and advanced scanning technology for internal and external requests and projects
  • Participates in MBEL-wide projects, such as exhibit development and publishing projects
  • Assists in handling of art and objects for storage and exhibit preparation
  • Assists in research, review, and assessment of art and artifact collections
  • Assists in reviewing donation offers and recommends accepting or declining them based on research and MBEL's established collecting policies
  • Prepares reports and documentation for legal review
  • Writes content for MBEL website, including collection summaries and articles
  • Serves as a super user for MBEL's collections management system, supporting other users and assisting the Archivist in providing training
  • Verifies transcriptions of oral histories
  • Attends conferences and workshops as a representative of MBEL
  • Participates in routine management and housekeeping of the collections spaces

Performs other duties as assigned
STAFF MANAGEMENT AND JOB CONTACTS
Reporting Relationships
Supervisor: Manager of Records Management and Special Collections
Supervises: N/A
Regular Contacts
The Assistant Archivist will primarily support the work of Special Collections colleagues under supervision and guidance from the Manager of Records Management and Special Collections and in consultation with the Archivist. This position will also work closely with all members of MBEL's Research and Collections division and other MBEL staff and may work with other departments in the church organization.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
Education/Experience
Master's Degree in Library and Information Science or two to three years direct experience in archival processing required. One to two years experience in general archival work preferred.
Knowledge/Skills
Knowledge of archival practices of appraisal, arranging, and description required, as well as the ability to quickly learn about and recognize significant people, places, and events related to Mary Baker Eddy, The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and its affiliates, and the history of the Christian Science movement. Clear written and oral communication skills also required. Knowledge of or experience with strategies for historical research preferred.
Technology Skills
Aptitude for learning digital asset management systems, collection management systems, archive collection management systems, and/or records management systems, including knowledge of metadata standards and controlled vocabularies for archives, museums, and news organizations. Practical experience with collections management systems and records management systems a plus.
Work Environment
This position regularly works in an office environment with the opportunity for a hybrid schedule.
Physical Requirements
Must be able to safely lift and move heavy materials (of up to 30-40 pounds), shelve and reshelve materials within repository areas, and maneuver heavily loaded carts.
Christian Science Information
Mother Church membership is required. The ideal candidate values Mary Baker Eddy's life and work, and recognizes the Library's role in furthering the mission of her church.
Pay range: $29.48 - $38.32 hourly
The pay ranges disclosed in our job postings are the compensation ranges the Church reasonably and in good faith expects to pay for a given position at the time of posting.
The offered salary will be determined by factors such as the applicant's relevant education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities; and benchmarking, work location, and internal equity.
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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