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Library Scientist Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Research Librarian

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

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

Reference Librarian

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$48K - $58K/yr

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

Showing results 41-60

Library Scientist information

See Washington salary details

$57.2K

$126.1K

$155.7K

How much do library scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for library scientist in Washington is $126,107.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,000.00 and $155,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a library scientist make?

The average salary for a library scientist is around $60,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Professionals in this role often hold advanced degrees in library science or information management and work in academic, public, or research libraries. Salaries can vary based on the specific employer and geographic region.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a library scientist?

To thrive as a Library Scientist, you need a solid grounding in information science, research methodologies, and data organization, usually supported by a master's degree in library and information science (MLIS). Familiarity with cataloging systems (like MARC), digital archives, and library management software is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills help set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure efficient information management, user support, and the advancement of library services in an evolving digital environment.

Is library science still in demand?

Library scientists, or librarians, continue to be in demand for managing information resources, digital collections, and community services. Employment opportunities are expected to grow steadily, especially with skills in digital tools, data management, and information technology.

What does a library scientist do?

A library scientist researches, develops, and manages information systems and library technologies to improve access to information. They analyze data, design databases, and implement digital tools, often using programming skills and information management principles to enhance library services and information retrieval.

What are some typical challenges faced by library scientists in managing digital collections?

Library Scientists often encounter challenges in managing digital collections, such as ensuring proper metadata standards, integrating new technologies, and safeguarding digital assets against data loss or obsolescence. They must balance accessibility for users with copyright and licensing restrictions, and regularly evaluate digital preservation strategies. Collaboration with IT professionals and ongoing training are essential for staying current with evolving best practices in digital library science.

What is the difference between Library Scientist vs Librarian?

AspectLibrary ScientistLibrarian
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science or related field, often with research experienceMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, academic settings, specialized librariesPublic, school, academic, or special libraries
Employer & Industry UsageResearch organizations, universities, government agenciesPublic libraries, schools, universities, corporate libraries
Common Search & ComparisonResearch roles, data analysis, library science researchLibrary management, user services, collection development

While both Library Scientists and Librarians hold master's degrees in Library Science, Library Scientists focus more on research, data analysis, and developing new library systems, often working in academic or research settings. Librarians typically manage library operations, assist users, and curate collections in public or educational libraries. The roles overlap in credentials but differ in focus and work environment.

What is a library scientist?

Library scientists, also known as library and information scientists, are professionals who manage, organize, and facilitate access to information resources in libraries and related institutions. They use their expertise in information science, technology, and research to classify, preserve, and retrieve data for users. Library scientists also develop systems for cataloging, digital archiving, and improving information accessibility. Their work supports education, research, and the dissemination of knowledge in various settings, including public, academic, and special libraries.
What are popular job titles related to Library Scientist jobs in Washington? For Library Scientist jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Scientist jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Library Scientist jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Library Scientist jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Library Scientist job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Scientist job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,107 per year, or $60.6 per hour.

Rare Book and Paper Conservator

Library Systems & Services LLC

Bethesda, MD โ€ข On-site

$75K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
LAC Federal is seeking an experienced Rare Book and Paper Conservator to provide specialized conservation treatment, preservation support, and collections care services for rare and unique historical materials, including books, manuscripts, pamphlets, broadsides, and archival paper collections. This position supports the preservation and accessibility of historically significant biomedical collections used by researchers, scholars, and the public.
The ideal candidate will possess advanced technical conservation skills, experience working in library or archival conservation laboratories, and the ability to independently perform complex conservation treatments within a federal research library environment.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Perform conservation treatment and stabilization of rare books, manuscripts, pamphlets, broadsides, and flat paper materials using current conservation best practices and American Institute for Conservation (AIC) standards.
  • Conduct treatments including cleaning, adhesive removal, stain reduction, tear repair, loss compensation, flattening, pigment consolidation, mold remediation, and iron gall ink stabilization.
  • Repair damaged bindings, covers, spines, text blocks, and cases involving leather, cloth, and paper-bound materials.
  • Design and construct custom protective enclosures and housings for rare and fragile collection materials.
  • Prepare collection materials for digitization and institutional loans, including packing and condition assessment activities.
  • Create detailed condition and treatment reports with photographic documentation using NLM's online systems and databases.
  • Provide photography support for digital initiatives and conservation documentation workflows.
  • Conduct preservation assessments, collection surveys, and ongoing collections maintenance activities.
  • Assist with disaster preparedness, salvage, recovery, and mold remediation activities for library collections.
  • Maintain conservation laboratory equipment, tools, and supplies, and assist with supply inventory and procurement recommendations.
  • Support staff training, demonstrations, and outreach activities related to conservation and preservation practices.
  • Prepare and submit accurate monthly work summaries and treatment documentation in accordance with contract reporting requirements.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Conservation, Library Science, Museum Studies, Preservation, Archival Studies, or a related field.
  • Minimum five (5) years of professional experience performing rare book and manuscript conservation and repair in a library, archives, museum, or cultural heritage institution.
  • Demonstrated training through a qualified conservator, apprenticeship, formal conservation program, or equivalent hands-on conservation experience.
  • Experience performing complex conservation treatments on paper- and book-based collections.
  • Experience repairing leather, cloth, and paper-bound materials, including re-backs, board repairs, and case repairs.
  • Knowledge of conservation-grade materials, tools, and techniques used in preservation and collections care.
  • Experience preparing accurate written condition reports and treatment documentation with digital photography.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of disaster response, salvage, recovery, mold identification, and remediation procedures for collections materials.
  • Knowledge of safe handling, use, storage, and disposal procedures for hazardous chemicals used in conservation treatment activities.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to work independently in a collaborative federal environment.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance and NIH badge.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Graduate degree specializing in book or paper conservation from a recognized conservation program.
  • Professional membership in the American Institute for Conservation (AIC).
  • Experience working in a federal library, academic research library, museum, or special collections environment.
  • Familiarity with Ex Libris Alma or other integrated library systems used in special collections environments.
  • Experience supporting digitization and digital preservation initiatives involving fragile materials.
  • Experience creating custom housings and phase boxes for rare and oversized materials.
  • Knowledge of preservation metadata and digital asset documentation practices.
  • Experience training staff or interns in collections care and conservation handling procedures.
  • Familiarity with NIH, NLM, or federal collections handling and security procedures.
  • Experience working with audiovisual, photographic, or mixed-media collections.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while performing detailed conservation treatments, documentation, condition assessments, and computer-based reporting activities in a laboratory environment.
  • Ability to safely lift, carry, and move rare books, archival boxes, oversized materials, and conservation equipment weighing up to 30 pounds, including frequent bending, reaching, and fine manual handling of fragile materials.
  • Ability to perform precise, repetitive hand and finger movements while using specialized conservation tools, laboratory equipment, adhesives, and treatment materials, including work requiring close visual attention and attention to detail.

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.
Salary Description
$75,000 - $105,000 annually