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Library Conservation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

POSITION SPECIFICS Penn State University Libraries seeks applications for the position of Head of Preservation, Conservation, and Digitization (PCD). Reporting to the Associate Dean for Distinctive ...

City of Owatonna

Library Manager

Owatonna, MN · On-site

Library Manager The City of Owatonna is a growing community strategically placed at the crossroads ... Information resources, including: collection management, preservation, and conservation; Web ...

City of Owatonna, MN

Library Manager

Owatonna, MN · On-site

$99K - $129K/yr

Library Division: Library Opening Date: 06/15/2026 Closing Date: 7/2/2026 12:00 PM Central FLSA ... Information resources, including: collection management, preservation, and conservation; * Web ...

City of Owatonna, MN

Library Manager

Owatonna, MN · On-site

$99K - $129K/yr

Library Division: Library Opening Date: 06/15/2026 Closing Date: 7/2/2026 12:00 PM Central FLSA ... Information resources, including: collection management, preservation, and conservation; * Web ...

City of Owatonna

Library Manager

Owatonna, MN

$99K - $129K/yr

The Library Department creates a better tomorrow by providing a welcoming space supporting the ... Information resources, including: collection management, preservation, and conservation; Web ...

State of Hawai'i

LIBRARY ASSISTANT IV - OAHU

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$3.3K - $4.9K/mo

University of Hawaii, Manoa Hawaii State Public Library System: Technical Services Support Section ... conservation of green resources, and minimize delays and costs. Please ensure that the email ...

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Library Conservation information

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How much do library conservation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for library conservation 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 is library conservation?

Library conservation is the practice of preserving and protecting books, manuscripts, and other library materials from damage or deterioration. Conservation involves assessing the condition of items, repairing physical damage, and implementing measures to prevent future harm, such as controlling the environment and handling procedures. The goal is to extend the lifespan of valuable or rare materials so that future generations can access and study them.

What are some common challenges faced in a Library Conservation role, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Library Conservation often encounter challenges such as handling fragile or deteriorating materials, prioritizing preservation needs with limited resources, and keeping up with advances in conservation techniques. Addressing these challenges involves continuous professional development, effective collaboration with librarians and archivists, and strategic planning to balance immediate treatment needs with preventive conservation. Building strong communication skills and staying current with industry best practices also help ensure the long-term preservation of collections.

What does a library conservator do?

A library conservator restores and preserves books, manuscripts, and other library materials to prevent deterioration and damage. They assess the condition of items, perform repairs using specialized techniques and materials, and may use tools like microscopes and conservation chemicals to ensure long-term preservation.

What is the highest paying library job?

The highest paying library job is typically a Library Director or Chief Librarian, with salaries often exceeding $80,000 to $120,000 annually depending on the size and type of institution. Advanced degrees, management experience, and leadership skills are usually required for these roles.

What is the difference between Library Conservation vs Book Restoration?

AspectLibrary ConservationBook Restoration
CredentialsConservation certifications, preservation trainingConservation certifications, specialized restoration skills
Work EnvironmentLibraries, archives, museumsRestoration workshops, conservation labs
Industry UsagePreserving library collections for long-term accessRepairing and restoring damaged books to original condition

Library Conservation focuses on preserving and maintaining library collections through preventive measures and minimal intervention, ensuring long-term access. Book Restoration involves repairing and restoring damaged books to their original state, often after deterioration or damage. While both roles require conservation skills and work in similar environments, their primary goals differ: preservation versus repair.

What conservation jobs make the most money?

In library conservation, senior conservators and specialized roles such as objects conservators tend to earn higher salaries due to their expertise and experience. Management positions, such as conservation department heads, also typically have higher pay. Advanced certifications and extensive experience can further increase earning potential in this field.

Can you make 6 figures as a librarian?

While most librarians earn below six figures, some senior or specialized roles in large institutions or with additional certifications can reach or exceed that level. Achieving a six-figure salary often requires advanced education, experience, and sometimes administrative or leadership positions within libraries or related organizations.

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

To thrive in Library Conservation, you need expertise in materials science, bookbinding, paper conservation techniques, and a relevant degree in conservation or library science. Familiarity with specialized conservation tools, environmental monitoring equipment, and digital cataloging systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help conservators assess item condition and collaborate effectively with colleagues. These skills are critical to preserving valuable collections, ensuring long-term access, and maintaining the integrity of library resources.
More about Library Conservation jobs
What cities are hiring for Library Conservation jobs? Cities with the most Library Conservation job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Library Conservation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Library Conservation jobs are:
Library Conservation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Conservation job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,859 per year, or $18.7 per hour.
Library & Archives Conservator

Library & Archives Conservator

American Antiquarian Society

Worcester, MA • On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Library & Archives Conservator
The Library & Archives Conservator is responsible for providing preventative care and comprehensive conservation evaluation and treatment for objects from the Society's diverse collection. They report to the Chief Conservator and work as an important part of a tightly organized department, managing and facilitating the work of the dynamic preservation and conservation program at the Society. The Library & Archives Conservator participates in all standard library preservation activities as well as engages with public programs for general outreach.
The American Antiquarian Society (AAS) cultivates a deeper understanding of the American past, grounded in its ever-growing collection of printed and manuscript sources. The Society fosters a broad community of inquiry through inclusive programs and generous support of scholarship. A national research library and learned society founded in 1812 by Revolutionary War patriot and printer Isaiah Thomas, AAS is located in Worcester, Massachusetts. The AAS library today houses the largest and most accessible collection of books, pamphlets, broadsides, newspapers, periodicals, children's literature, music, and graphic arts material printed before the twentieth century in what is now the United States, as well as manuscripts and a substantial collection of secondary texts, bibliographies, and digital resources and reference works.
Position Type: Full-time, non-exempt
Salary Range: $60,000 - $70,000 per year (DOE - depending on experience)
Location: Worcester, MA
Responsibilities
  • In consultation with the Chief Conservator, perform minor, as well as complex, paper conservation treatments for the Society's collections, comprised of both bound and single sheet printed objects, photographs, and manuscripts.
  • Examine and evaluate collection materials for treatment; confer with curatorial staff.
  • Manage workflow, keep records, write reports, and provide photo documentation for work performed and maintain existing conservation databases and image archives.
  • Prepare objects for loans, exhibits, digitization, and public programs.
  • Assist in the training and supervision of the summer conservation interns.
  • Keep abreast of new technical developments in the field.
  • Assist with preservation activities, such as disaster preparedness, collection storage, collection surveys, and environmental monitoring.
  • Provide collection housing in prefabricated and custom enclosures.
  • Assist in providing conservation orientations for new library staff, scanners, and volunteers.
  • Work collaboratively with supervisor and library staff in all activities.
  • Provide lab tours and participate in events programming and social media.

Required Skills/Abilities
  • Solid knowledge of the principles, concepts, and techniques of conservation treatment and documentation, and preservation.
  • Strong attention to detail and visual acuity; excellent hand skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills and ability to multitask.
  • Excellent interpersonal and collaboration skills.
  • Ability to think logically and analytically and work methodically.
  • Ability to follow directions and adhere to departmental work protocols.
  • Ability to operate and maintain specialized tools and book conservation equipment.
  • Ability to work with relevant chemicals; ability to understand and comply with health and safety protocols.
  • Ability to learn and use technology including automated library software systems.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills in providing internal consultation and institutional outreach.
  • Ability to deal professionally and efficiently with all constituents.

Education/Experience
  • Degree in library & archives or paper conservation from an accredited conservation program; significant experience may be considered in lieu of an advanced degree.
  • 3-5 years of experience performing paper or archives conservation treatments and examination of a wide range of special library collection materials.

Physical Demands/Work Environment
  • Prolonged periods of standing, walking, and sitting.
  • Occasional periods of climbing or balancing, pulling/pushing items/hand trucks, lifting/carrying items weighing up to approximately thirty pounds, and reaching with arms and hands.
  • The use of hands for basic grasping/manipulation, fine manipulation, occasional reaching, stooping, bending, kneeling, crouching, and keyboarding.
  • Physical duties are subject to change.
  • May be exposed to dust, mold, and/or other organic material. Hazards are considered minor and controllable.

Deadline to apply: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. The deadline for all submissions is August 15, 2026.
Start date: We anticipate the successful candidate will join our team in late 2026.
Hours: This is a full-time, non-exempt position of 35 hours (40 hours minus a one-hour unpaid lunch per day).
Compensation & Benefits: The range for this position is $32.97-38.46/hour, which is approximately $60,000 to 70,000 annually. Examples of benefits for full-time staff are vacation, sick and personal time, as well as ~12 paid holidays, your birthday off and paid full-office closure for approx. one week in December. We also have employer-sponsored health insurance, life insurance, disability coverage, and retirement plans that include employer match, among other benefits.
As an equal opportunity employer, we value diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are committed to equal employment and promotion opportunity regardless of ability, age, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status.
Finalists will be asked for references at a later stage.
For questions on this position, please contact careers[at]mwa.org. Please do not submit applications to this address.

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