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Library Science Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Librarian

Rockville, MD · On-site

$121K/yr

The National Library of Medicine seeks a Senior Metadata Librarian to develop, implement, and optimize metadata standards supporting biomedical, scientific, and digital collections. This role ...

This work requires deep expertise in library science; data/information management and value extraction; and automation, from models through GenAI. The team member will help an op-centric office make ...

Librarian

Rockville, MD · On-site

$121K/yr

The National Library of Medicine seeks a Senior Metadata Librarian to develop, implement, and optimize metadata standards supporting biomedical, scientific, and digital collections. This role ...

Research Librarian

Washington, DC · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Participates in special projects and any other duties as assigned Requirements • Master's degree in Library Science (ALA accredited) • 3+ years of experience • Expertise in using SharePoint ...

ResponsibilitiesThis work requires deep expertise in library science; data/information management and value extraction; and automation, from models through GenAI. The team member will help an op ...

Information Scientist

Reston, VA · On-site

$182K - $200K/yr

Responsibilities This work requires deep expertise in library science; data/information management and value extraction; and automation, from models through GenAI. The team member will help an op ...

Reference Librarian

Washington, DC · On-site

$48K - $58K/yr

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: • Master's degree in library science (MLS), Library and Information Science (MLIS), or a related field from an accredited institution. • Knowledge of library services and ...

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Library Science information

See Washington salary details

$9

$17

$32

How much do library science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for library science in Washington is $17.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.32 and $19.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do you do with a library science degree?

A library science degree prepares individuals for careers as librarians, archivists, information specialists, or library administrators. These roles involve managing collections, providing research assistance, organizing information, and using library management systems. Additional certifications or knowledge of digital resources and cataloging standards are often beneficial.

What type of librarian gets paid the most?

In library science, specialized roles such as law librarians, medical librarians, and corporate librarians tend to have higher salaries due to their advanced expertise and the specialized knowledge required. Academic librarians with administrative or leadership responsibilities, such as library directors, also typically earn higher wages. Certifications and experience in these areas can further increase earning potential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Library Science professional, and why are they important?

To thrive in Library Science, you need a solid grounding in information organization, research, and cataloging, typically supported by a master's degree in library science (MLS or MLIS). Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital archives, and metadata standards like MARC or Dublin Core is essential. Strong interpersonal skills, customer service orientation, and adaptability help professionals assist diverse patrons and manage changing information needs. These skills are crucial for efficiently organizing resources, facilitating information access, and supporting lifelong learning in a rapidly evolving field.

What is library science?

Library science is the field that deals with the organization, management, and dissemination of information resources within libraries and similar institutions. Professionals in library science are responsible for cataloging books and media, helping patrons locate information, and preserving collections. They may also work with digital resources, data management, and information literacy. The field combines elements of information technology, archival science, and customer service to support education and research.

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

Library science professionals often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly evolving technology, managing diverse patron needs, and navigating budget constraints. Staying current with digital resources and library management systems is essential, as is developing strong communication skills to serve a wide range of users. Proactively engaging in professional development, collaborating with colleagues, and seeking innovative ways to deliver services can help address these challenges while enhancing the value libraries provide to their communities.

What is the difference between Library Science vs Archivist?

AspectLibrary ScienceArchivist
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science or Information ScienceBachelor's or Master's degree in Archival Studies, History, or Library Science
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special librariesArchives, museums, or historical repositories
Employer & Industry UsageLibraries, educational institutions, government agenciesHistorical societies, museums, government archives
Common Search & ComparisonLibrary Science vs Archivist

Library Science and Archivists both work with information management, but Library Science focuses on organizing and providing access to library resources, while Archivists preserve and manage historical records and documents. Their roles often overlap in information organization, but their environments and specific skills differ.

Is library science a good career?

Library science is a viable career for individuals interested in managing information, assisting users, and organizing collections. It typically requires a master's degree in library science or information studies and involves skills in technology, cataloging, and research. Job prospects can vary based on location and institutional funding, but the field offers opportunities in public, academic, and special libraries.

Can you be a librarian without a degree in library science?

Library science positions typically require a master's degree in library or information science from an American Library Association-accredited program. However, some library roles, such as library assistants or clerks, may not require a degree in library science but often need relevant experience or certifications. Requirements vary by employer and position type.
What are the most commonly searched types of Library Science jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Library Science jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Science jobs in Washington? For Library Science jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Library Science jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Library Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Science job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,072 per year, or $17.8 per hour.
Library Technician

$24.49 - $26/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Description

LAC Federal is seeking a reliable and detail-oriented Library Technician / Paraprofessional to support a federal scientific library in providing library operations, collection maintenance, circulation, document delivery, and customer service support within a federal scientific library environment. This position supports researchers, scientists, analysts, and staff by ensuring that library collections, records, and public service operations remain organized, accessible, and responsive to user needs. The successful candidate will assist with physical collection maintenance, circulation services, interlibrary loan support, digitization activities, inventory control, and general library operations.


Duties and Responsibilities

  • Process physical library materials including barcodes, spine labels, security tags, and property stamps 
  • Shelve, shift, and maintain library collections using Library of Congress Classification (LCC) or local filing systems 
  • Conduct shelf-reading and collection maintenance activities to ensure filing accuracy and retrievability 
  • Create and update patron records using the government-provided integrated library system (ILS) 
  • Perform circulation activities including check-in, check-out, renewals, recalls, and holds 
  • Support interlibrary loan (ILL) and document delivery services by processing requests, retrieving materials, scanning      documents, and coordinating shipments 
  • Assist with inventory control and collection tracking activities using government-provided databases and systems 
  • Support digitization projects by preparing materials, scanning documents, creating tracking lists, and performing quality checks on digital files 
  • Assist with archival processing, records management, and metadata support activities as assigned 
  • Provide front-line customer service and assist users with locating materials and accessing library resources 
  • Support library outreach activities, exhibits training sessions, and events as needed 
  • Assist with opening and closing library facilities and maintaining orderly public and staff spaces 
  • Track and report circulation, usage, and service statistics 
  • Identify and report facilities, equipment, or electronic access issues to federal staff 
  • Support emergency response and collection protection activities during facility or environmental incidents 
  • Assist with physical inventory of library equipment and property 

Requirements

  • Associate's degree from a recognized college or technical school; May substitute experience for degree
  • Minimum of one (1) year of relevant library, archives, records management, or information services experience 
  • Experience using library systems, databases, or inventory tracking systems 
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail 
  • Strong customer service and communication skills 
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a professional environment 
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and standard office software 
  • Ability to follow detailed procedures and maintain accurate records 

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience supporting scientific, technical, academic, or federal libraries 
  • Familiarity with Library of Congress Classification (LCC) 
  • Experience with integrated library systems (ILS) and circulation operations 
  • Experience supporting interlibrary loan, digitization, or archival activities 
  • Familiarity with metadata or document management systems 
  • Experience supporting inventory or property accountability functions 
  • Familiarity with Section 508 accessibility requirements

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, reach, and use hands and fingers for extended periods of time in a library or office environment. 
  • Ability to frequently lift, carry, move, shelve, and transport books, boxes, files, library materials, and equipment weighing up to 30 pounds. 
  • Ability to travel throughout library, storage, and office areas, including pushing carts, retrieving materials, and operating standard office and scanning equipment for prolonged periods.

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.