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Library Cataloging Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rishabh RPO

Library Project Specialist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

Catalog technical library resources, including digital and print materials related to audio/video technologies. Maintain accurate and up-to-date catalog records in library management systems for ...

City of Temple

Cataloging Librarian - Library

Temple, TX · On-site

$26.78 - $29.36/hr

Partners with other library divisions on the cataloging, weeding, inventory, and maintenance of the library collection * Maintains records and holdings in local automated system; works with library ...

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How much do library cataloging jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for library cataloging in the United States is $18.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

Library cataloging professionals often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex or incomplete bibliographic information, keeping up with evolving cataloging standards (like RDA and MARC), and managing large volumes of materials efficiently. To address these, catalogers can participate in ongoing professional development, use available cataloging tools and resources, and collaborate with colleagues for quality control and knowledge sharing. Staying current with best practices and utilizing library networks can also help streamline workflows and maintain accuracy.

What is library cataloging?

Library cataloging is the process of creating detailed records for each item in a library's collection, such as books, journals, DVDs, and more. These records include important information like the title, author, subject, and classification number, making it easier for users to find and access materials. Catalogers use standardized systems and rules, such as the Dewey Decimal System or Library of Congress Classification, to organize and describe items accurately. Effective cataloging ensures that library resources are discoverable and accessible to patrons both in-person and online.

What is the difference between Library Cataloging vs Library Technical Services?

AspectLibrary CatalogingLibrary Technical Services
ResponsibilitiesCreating and maintaining catalog records for library materialsManaging acquisitions, processing materials, and maintaining collections
Required SkillsKnowledge of cataloging standards, classification, metadataInventory management, processing workflows, vendor communication
Work EnvironmentPublic and academic libraries, archivesLibraries, information centers, archives
CertificationsALA-accredited training, cataloging certificationsLibrary technician certifications, relevant training

Library Cataloging focuses on creating detailed records for library materials, while Library Technical Services handles the broader collection management, including acquisitions and processing. Both roles are essential for efficient library operations and often overlap in skills and work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Library Cataloging, and why are they important?

To thrive in Library Cataloging, you need strong attention to detail, knowledge of bibliographic standards (like MARC and RDA), and typically a degree in library science. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), cataloging tools, and classification systems such as Dewey Decimal or Library of Congress is essential. Excellent organizational skills, analytical thinking, and the ability to communicate clearly help catalogers work efficiently and collaborate with library staff. These skills ensure library materials are accurately described and easily accessible, supporting user discovery and library operations.
More about Library Cataloging jobs
What cities are hiring for Library Cataloging jobs? Cities with the most Library Cataloging job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Library Cataloging jobs? The most popular types of Library Cataloging jobs are:
What states have the most Library Cataloging jobs? States with the most job openings for Library Cataloging jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Library Cataloging jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Library Cataloging jobs are:
Library Cataloging jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Cataloging job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 45% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,859 per year, or $18.7 per hour.
Cataloging Librarian

Cataloging Librarian

Library Systems & Services LLC

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
LAC Federal is seeking a Cataloger to support a major federal cultural institution in the Washington, D.C. area providing original and complex cataloging for artists' books and related materials. This position will focus on the cataloging, metadata creation, and physical processing of unique and rare artists' books within one of the nation's premier art research collections. The position requires detailed bibliographic analysis, application of RDA cataloging standards, assignment of Library of Congress classification (LCC) and subject headings (LCSH), creation of item records, and physical processing of collection materials. The Cataloger will also assist with rehousing and preservation-oriented processing activities for unique and editioned artists' books. This is a full-time, on-site position in downtown Washington, DC.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Retrieve artists' books from secure storage and return materials to designated storage locations after processing.
  • Perform original and complex copy cataloging of artists' books using OCLC and the library services platform.
  • Create full-level bibliographic records in accordance with RDA and local practices.
  • Research artists, publishers, formats, and publication history to verify and enhance cataloging data.
  • Assign Library of Congress Classification (LCC) numbers and Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH).
  • Apply genre and form headings and other specialized metadata appropriate for artists' books.
  • Update OCLC holdings and export/import bibliographic records into local systems.
  • Create and maintain item-level records in the local ILS
  • Generate call number labels, barcodes, acid-free tags, and other processing documentation.
  • Rehouse artists' books and related ephemeral materials in archival enclosures and identify materials requiring custom housing.
  • Participate in cataloging discussions and coordinate with Smithsonian staff regarding cataloging practices and standards.
  • Prepare monthly progress reports documenting completed cataloging and processing activities.
  • Handle rare, unique, and special-format materials using appropriate preservation and collections care practices.

Requirements
  • Demonstrated experience using library cataloging platforms, including OCLC Connexion and library services platforms (LSPs).
  • Ability to perform original and copy cataloging at the full bibliographic level in accordance with professional cataloging standards.
  • Experience creating bibliographic records using RDA standards and applying Library of Congress Classification (LCC) and Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH).
  • Ability to work on-site in Washington, DC during normal business hours.
  • Ability to successfully complete any required Smithsonian background investigation and credentialing requirements.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's Degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an ALA-accredited institution.
  • Two or more years of professional cataloging experience in academic, museum, research, special, or art libraries.
  • Experience cataloging artists' books, rare books, special collections, museum collections, visual resources, or other unique formats.
  • Knowledge of MARC21 bibliographic and authority formats.
  • Familiarity with PCC, NACO, LC-PCC Policy Statements, Getty AAT, and genre/form vocabularies.
  • Experience with Alma, Horizon, or other integrated library systems.
  • Experience performing authority work and metadata enhancement.
  • Knowledge of book arts, printmaking, photography, artist publications, visual arts, or museum collections.
  • Experience handling rare, fragile, archival, or special-format materials.
  • Strong research, analytical, and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently while maintaining a high degree of accuracy and productivity.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to retrieve, transport, and shelve library materials, including lifting and carrying books, archival boxes, and collection materials weighing up to 25 pounds.
  • Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, and move throughout library storage and processing areas for extended periods while handling, rehousing, and processing collection materials.
  • Ability to perform repetitive hand and finger movements, including keyboarding, data entry, labeling, scanning, and handling rare or fragile materials with appropriate care and precision.

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.

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