ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Library Conservation Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Cincinnati Art Museum

Head Librarian - FT

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Schiff Library is an art research library with a non-circulating collection of over 100,000 items ... Partner with Archives and Conservation to guide preservation and storage for rare and special ...

All JobsLibrary Conservation JobsLibrary Conservation Jobs in Ohio

Library Conservation information

See Ohio salary details

$8

$17

$26

How much do library conservation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for library conservation in Ohio is $17.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.38 and $20.10 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 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 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.
What are popular job titles related to Library Conservation jobs in Ohio? For Library Conservation jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Conservation jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Library Conservation jobs in Ohio are:
Library Conservation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Conservation job openings in Ohio as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,943 per year, or $17.8 per hour.
Head Librarian - FT

Head Librarian - FT

Cincinnati Art Museum

Cincinnati, OH • On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Other

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

The Mary R. Schiff Library is an art research library with a non-circulating collection of over 100,000 items, including books, periodicals, digital resources, artist files and auction catalogues. Its holdings reflect the Cincinnati Art Museum’s collections, which span 6,000 years of artistic creativity from cultures across the globe. Areas of strength in the library collections include decorative arts, fashion, photography, and Cincinnati artists. The library dates to the founding of the museum in 1881, and today it fulfills its dual mandate to support the research and education programs of the museum and be a welcoming public resource.


POSITION SUMMARY

The Head Librarian provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for the Mary R. Schiff Library. This role manages collections, staff, spaces, and research resources; oversees collection development, research services, and digital initiatives; and advances access to art historical resources for museum staff, scholars, and the public.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES

Reporting to the Director of Academic Partnerships & Research, duties include, but are not limited to:

Leadership & Strategic Direction

  • Develop and implement a long-term vision for the museum library in alignment with institutional priorities articulated by the museum’s 2026-2029 strategic plan
  • Evaluate policies, procedures, and performance standards to guide operations and support innovation in library practice

Library Operations & Administration

  • Oversee core library functions, including reference, circulation, interlibrary loan, acquisitions, cataloging, and preservation
  • Ensure effective access to physical and digital collections for internal and external users
  • Manage department budgets.
  • Evaluate and implement and maintain systems for library management, metadata, and digital asset organization
  • Liaise with University of Cincinnati Libraries, OhioLINK, and other electronic resource partners and providers
  • Work closely and collaboratively with museum archivists, registrars, curators and educators

Collection Development & Stewardship

  • Lead collection development in collaboration with Curatorial, Learning & Interpretation, and other stakeholders
  • Oversee acquisition, cataloging, and stewardship of books, journals, ephemera, and digital and electronic resources
  • Ensure adherence to professional standards for cataloging, metadata, and archival description
  • Partner with Archives and Conservation to guide preservation and storage for rare and special collections

Research, References & Scholarly Support

  • Provide advanced research support for curators, educators, and visiting and corresponding researchers
  • Support museum exhibition, publication, and research initiatives through expert reference services
  • Develop research tools such as finding aids, bibliographies, and subject guides
  • Ensure a high standard of user-centered service and engagement with diverse audiences

Digital Strategy & Innovation

  • Partner with Registration, Archives, and IT on metadata strategy, digital infrastructure, and resource discoverability
  • Lead digitization programs and digital access initiatives to expand the reach of collections
  • Evaluate and implement emerging technologies, including digital scholarship tools, linked data, and artificial intelligence
  • Ensure long-term digital preservation and sustainable data management practices

External Relations, Institutional Collaboration & Public Engagement

  • Collaborate across museum teams on exhibitions and programming
  • With the Director of Academic Partnerships & Research, build partnerships with academic institutions, libraries, and arts organizations
  • Represent the museum in professional associations, conferences, and scholarly forums
  • Support fundraising efforts, including grant writing and donor engagement for library initiatives

Staff Leadership & Development

  • Collaborate with, manage, and mentor two direct reports, and any applicable volunteers, interns, and fellows
  • Work with direct reports to support professional development, personal growth and institutional success through a framework of goal setting and feedback


MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Master’s degree in library and information science (MLIS) from an ALA-accredited program. Advanced degree in art history, museum studies, or a related field preferred.
  • Five to seven (5-7) years of progressively responsible experience in a research library, museum library, or special collections environment. Experience working with archives, rare books, or special collections a plus.
  • Demonstrated success in leadership, staff management, and strategic planning
  • Knowledge of art history resources, visual culture, or related disciplines
  • Experience in library systems, metadata standards, and digital information management

Preferred:

  • Familiarity with digital humanities, linked data, or large-scale metadata initiatives
  • Experience with grant writing, fundraising, and donor relations
  • Experience with Ex Libris Alma/Primo Library Services Platform
  • Active participation in professional organizations (e.g. ARLIS/NA, ALA, IFLA)