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Library Scientist Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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This role is particularly well suited for a graduate student in Library Science, a retired librarian, or a digital content professional looking for a flexible schedule while leveraging expertise in ...

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Library Scientist information

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$52K

$114.7K

$141.6K

How much do library scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for library scientist in Chicago, IL is $114,699.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,300.00 and $141,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

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 and may work in academic, public, or research libraries, utilizing specialized skills in information management and data analysis.

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 and data management skills, to enhance library services and information retrieval. The role may also involve developing policies and training staff on new systems.

What are popular job titles related to Library Scientist jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Library Scientist jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Library Scientist jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Scientist jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Library Scientist jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Library Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Scientist job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,699 per year, or $55.1 per hour.

Business Analyst II - Digital Librarian

Chicago, IL • On-site

InfoTree
1 - 10 employees

$33 - $35/hr

Contractor

Posted 4 days ago

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Job description

Position Summary
We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Digital Librarian to support the management, governance, and discoverability of digital and media assets across our Media Asset Management (MAM) and Digital Asset Management (DAM) platforms.
This role will play a critical part in ensuring content is properly organized, accurately tagged, easily discoverable, and governed throughout its lifecycle. The ideal candidate combines traditional information management skills with modern digital content expertise and enjoys helping users find the right asset at the right time. Responsibilities align closely with digital librarian functions focused on metadata management, search optimization, training, and asset governance.
Key Responsibilities

Metadata & Taxonomy Management

· Apply metadata standards, controlled vocabularies, and taxonomy structures.

· Ensure digital assets are consistently tagged and categorized.

· Maintain and improve metadata quality and governance standards.

· Assist in developing enterprise-wide metadata frameworks.

· Digital & Media Asset Management

· Ingest, organize, and maintain image, video, audio, and document assets.

· Conduct regular quality reviews and metadata audits.

· Support archival and retention processes.

· Identify duplicate, outdated, or non-compliant content.


Search & Discoverability

· Improve search relevance and asset findability.

· Analyze user search behavior and recommend improvements.

· Optimize folders, collections, and categorization structures.

· Support enterprise content governance initiatives.

User Support & Enablement

· Assist users with locating and utilizing assets.

· Provide training and guidance on DAM and MAM best practices.

· Create user documentation, FAQs, and reference materials.

· Serve as a subject matter resource for asset management processes.

Governance & Compliance

· Ensure assets comply with governance policies and standards.

· Verify rights management and usage restrictions.

· Support content audits and reporting activities.

· Assist with migration, cleanup, and data quality initiatives.


Success Measures
Within the first year, the Digital Librarian will:

· Improve metadata completeness and accuracy.

· Increase asset findability and search success rates.

· Support successful migration and onboarding initiatives for DAM and MAM content.

· Establish repeatable governance and quality assurance processes.

· Deliver a positive user experience through training and support.

Ideal Candidate
You thrive on bringing order to complex content ecosystems, have a passion for information organization, and enjoy helping others navigate digital content. You see metadata as the key to discoverability and understand the value that effective content governance brings to an enterprise organization.
This role is particularly well suited for a graduate student in Library Science, a retired librarian, or a digital content professional looking for a flexible schedule while leveraging expertise in information management and digital asset governance
Proficient in Microsoft products; AI technologies; advanced applications for managing content