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Library Cataloger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CalPolyPomona

Lecturer AY - Library

Pomona, CA · On-site

Performing original cataloging of library materials in all formats; integrating online journals and e-books into the library catalog. * Participating in the maintenance of the library's integrated ...

Cal Poly Pomona

Lecturer AY - Library

Pomona, CA · On-site

Performing original cataloging of library materials in all formats; integrating online journals and e-books into the library catalog. * Participating in the maintenance of the library's integrated ...

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Library Cataloger information

See California salary details

$25.7K

$61.2K

$99.2K

How much do library cataloger jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for library cataloger in California is $61,244.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,900.00 and $71,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a library cataloger?

Library catalogers are professionals responsible for organizing and classifying library materials, such as books, journals, and digital resources, so they can be easily found and accessed by library users. They create detailed records for each item, assigning standardized subject headings, authorship information, and call numbers according to cataloging rules like MARC and RDA. Catalogers play a crucial role in maintaining the accuracy and usability of a library's collection, ensuring resources are discoverable through the library catalog.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a library cataloger, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Cataloger, you need expertise in bibliographic classification, metadata standards, and information organization, often supported by a degree in library science. Familiarity with cataloging tools like MARC, OCLC WorldCat, integrated library systems (ILS), and relevant cataloging rules such as RDA is essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are key soft skills that help ensure accuracy and collaboration with library staff. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining precise, accessible, and user-friendly library collections.

What are some common challenges faced by library catalogers, and how can they be addressed?

Library catalogers often face the challenge of keeping up with evolving cataloging standards, such as RDA and MARC, while ensuring the accuracy and consistency of bibliographic records. Handling diverse materials, like digital resources or rare items, can require specialized knowledge and adaptability. Collaboration with other library staff is crucial to resolve ambiguities and maintain a user-friendly catalog. Staying up-to-date through professional development and open communication with colleagues helps catalogers overcome these challenges and support library users effectively.

What is the difference between Library Cataloger vs Library Archivist?

AspectLibrary CatalogerLibrary Archivist
Required CredentialsMLS or MLIS, cataloging certificationsMLS or MLIS, archival certifications
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special librariesArchives, museums, special collections
Employer & IndustryLibraries, educational institutionsArchives, cultural institutions
Primary FocusOrganizing and maintaining library catalogsPreserving and managing archival collections

While both roles require an MLS or MLIS degree, Library Catalogers focus on organizing library materials and maintaining catalogs, whereas Library Archivists specialize in preserving and managing archival collections. Both work in similar environments but serve different functions within information management.

What does a library cataloger do in a library?

A library cataloger is responsible for creating and maintaining bibliographic records for library materials, ensuring accurate and consistent catalog entries. They use cataloging standards like MARC and tools such as integrated library systems (ILS) to organize resources for easy retrieval by patrons and staff.

What cities in California are hiring for Library Cataloger jobs?

Cities in California with the most Library Cataloger job openings:

Library Cataloger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Cataloger job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $61,244 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Library Assistant III

J. Paul Getty Trust, The

Los Angeles, CA

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Getty is committed to creating a welcoming workplace that reflects the various backgrounds of the communities we serve. We value differences in the pursuit of inquiry and knowledge, mutual understanding, respect, trust, transparency, and cooperation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship or immigration status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected status.Job Summary

The Getty Research Institute seeks a full-time Library Assistant III for a 2-year limited-term position. This position is focused on processing the library of art historian Robert Farris Thompson, one of the foremost scholars of the artistic and linguistic connections and continuities within the African Diaspora and Afro-Atlantic world. The library consists of between 5,000 and 7,000 volumes, covering a wide range of topics supporting Thompson's interests and research. The Library Assistant will work under limited supervision and in partnership with other catalogers and archivists to sort and catalog the collection according to library standards and best practices. Specializing primarily in monograph cataloging functions, this position will create, maintain, and update bibliographic, holdings, item, and authority records. Copy cataloging work will range from simple to complex and will require bibliographic searching or use of reference sources to complete or verify data. Duties will include other processing tasks such as building archival enclosures, rehousing ephemera, preparing labels, data entry, preparing and receiving shipments from storage, and paging materials from storage.

Major Job Responsibilities
  • Applies knowledge of cataloging rules (AACR2R and/or RDA) and MARC records to search for and identify matching records in OCLC.
  • Applies local guidelines to determine how to treat each item, and subsequently route the item or perform complex copy cataloging.
  • Applies knowledge of Library of Congress Name Authority File, Library of Congress Subject Headings, and Library of Congress Classification System to perform authority control and shelf-list checks on all items cataloged.
  • Performs physical processing of materials (e.g., labeling, marking, stamping, and housing).
  • May help in unpacking, organizing, and distributing materials.
  • Assists in development and maintenance of job-related data and procedures.
  • Uses various library software applications to execute moderately complex transactions.
  • Participates in section meetings and other meetings as appropriate.
  • Engages in continuing professional development by attending and participating in professional conferences and training opportunities related to position responsibilities.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in art history or related discipline preferred
  • Minimum 3 years related experience
  • Some supervisory and training experience preferred
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Experience copy cataloging preferred
  • Experience using OCLC Connexion and/or ExLibris Alma preferred
  • Experience performing authority control preferred
  • Experience with LCCS and/or LCSH preferred
  • Strong communication, organization, study, and problem-solving skills
  • Exceptional attention to detail
  • Experience with industry standard software suites as appropriate to assigned duties
  • Experience handling fragile or brittle materials preferred
  • Physical activity for extended periods at various times throughout the day, including lifting library materials weighing up to 40 pounds and pushing heavy book carts
  • Ability to climb industrial ladders required in order to page and shelve from the collections stored on 12-foot high bookshelves
  • Good manual dexterity required
  • Ability to work in partnership with others
Benefits and Perks

Here are just some examples that Getty offers/provides for full-time employees:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance coverage, starting on date of hire. Getty pays 75%-95% of the premium, depending on the plan selected.
  • 403(b) Employee Investment retirement plan - with up to 5% Getty Match
  • Getty contribution of 6%, on behalf of employee, to 401(a) retirement account
  • Educational Assistance and professional development
  • Paid Vacation, Sick, and Personal Days
  • 12 Paid Holidays
  • Many positions have bi-weekly off-Fridays
  • On-Site Fitness Center at Getty Center
  • Community service opportunities

To learn more about our comprehensive benefits and long list of perks, go to Getty HR.

Employment Type: TEMPORARY

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