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Library Archivist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Research Archivist

Olympia, WA · On-site

$69K - $93K/yr

Lead Research Archivist, Library & Archives Professional 4 Full-time, Permanent This position directs and oversees delivery of research services in Olympia in support of the Washington State Archives ...

Archivist

Washington, DC · On-site

$43.76/hr

Archivist (Federal Project - Washington, D.C.) Pay Rate: $43.76/hour Zimmerman Associates, Inc ... Follow the Library Division's Processing Manual in all aspects of the project * Collaborate with ...

Ability to use library technology, including scanners, databases, printers, etc. * Some experience using ArchivesSpace, Archivist Toolkit, or similar Education: Master's degree in library and ...

Archivist (Federal Project - Washington, D.C.) Pay Rate: $43.76/hour Zimmerman Associates, Inc ... Follow the Library Division's Processing Manual in all aspects of the project * Collaborate with ...

Ability to use library technology, including scanners, databases, printers, etc. * Some experience using ArchivesSpace, Archivist Toolkit, or similar Education: Master's degree in library and ...

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)

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Library Archivist information

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$28.5K

$72.8K

$119K

How much do library archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for library archivist in the United States is $72,781.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $83,500.00 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.
More about Library Archivist jobs
What cities are hiring for Library Archivist jobs? Cities with the most Library Archivist job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Library Archivist jobs? The top employers for Library Archivist jobs are:
What states have the most Library Archivist jobs? States with the most job openings for Library Archivist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Library Archivist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% Internship, 16% As Needed, 15% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 49% Temporary, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 5% Physical, and 95% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,781 per year, or $35 per hour.
Library Technician

$20 - $25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Description

LAC Federal is seeking a Library Technician to support an art-focused research library in Washington, DC. The successful candidate will provide operational support for library collections, circulation services, interlibrary loan activities, patron assistance, and collections management projects within one of the nation's premier research library systems. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to the preservation, accessibility, and use of world-class library and archival collections supporting researchers, curators, scholars, and the public. 


Duties and Responsibilities

  • Manage circulation and fulfillment activities using library systems such as Alma, ILLiad, and related applications.
  • Check library materials in and out and maintain accurate circulation records.
  • Shelve, shift, organize, and reshelve books, serials, periodicals, and other research materials.
  • Process interlibrary loan requests and document delivery transactions.
  • Assist patrons in locating resources and answering basic research and reference inquiries.
  • Schedule researcher appointments and assist with patron access services.
  • Perform bibliographic searches to support acquisitions, collection maintenance, withdrawals, and inventory activities.
  • Create gift-in-hand records and assist with purchase requests for new library materials.
  • Receive, unpack, sort, and distribute library deliveries and shipments.
  • Assist with collection transfer, withdrawal, relocation, and large-scale shifting projects.
  • Identify materials requiring relabeling, rehousing, repair, or preservation treatment.
  • Maintain reference, circulation, and service statistics and prepare monthly activity reports.
  • Support library operations through equipment monitoring, supply management, and general administrative assistance.
  • Create scans and photocopies of collection materials in accordance with library procedures.
  • Communicate professionally with Smithsonian staff, researchers, and library patrons.

Requirements

Mandatory Qualifications 

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum one (1) year of experience working in a library, archives, museum library, academic library, research library, or similar information services environment.
  • Experience providing customer service in a professional setting.
  • Ability to organize, shelve, retrieve, and maintain physical library collections accurately.
  • Experience using library databases, integrated library systems, or other information management systems.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to perform repetitive tasks accurately.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to lift, move, and shelve library materials and work within library stack environments.
  • Ability to work on-site in Washington, DC and at other Smithsonian library locations as assigned.
  • Ability to successfully pass a background investigation and obtain Smithsonian credentialing.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Library Science, History, Museum Studies, Information Science, Humanities, or a related field.
  • Two or more years of experience supporting academic, research, museum, or special libraries.
  • Experience with Alma, Horizon, ILLiad, OCLC, WorldCat, or other integrated library systems.
  • Experience processing interlibrary loan requests and document delivery services.
  • Experience supporting collection inventories, shelf reading, shifting, or collection moves.
  • Familiarity with library circulation and patron services workflows.
  • Experience working with rare books, special collections, museum collections, or archival materials.
  • Knowledge of library catalog records and bibliographic searching.
  • Experience creating usage statistics, reports, or service metrics.
  • Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

 Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift, carry, push, and move library materials, boxes, and supplies weighing up to 40 pounds, and to transport materials throughout library and storage areas. 
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and stretch for extended periods while shelving, retrieving, organizing, inventorying, and shifting library collections. 
  • Ability to work safely in library stack and storage environments, including climbing step stools or ladders, maneuvering book carts, and performing repetitive tasks requiring manual dexterity, visual acuity, and attention to detail.

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Training & Development

EEO Statement

The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Nothing in this job specification restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. 

Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. 

To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. 

Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.