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Library Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Boston College

Data Services Librarian

Chestnut Hill, MA · On-site

$79K - $99K/yr

Requirements A master's degree in Library and Information Science or a closely related, data-intensive research field, plus 2-3 years of relevant experience Demonstrated experience in Providing data ...

The Boston Athenaeum

Reader Services Librarian

Boston, MA · On-site

$23 - $24/hr

Assists in overall promotion of the library and reading by acting as a "book concierge" * Is an avid reader, knowledgeable in current trends in literature and able to make recommendations by both ...

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$9

$17

$31

How much do library jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for library in Boston, MA is $17.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.79 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Librarian, you typically need a Master’s degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS), strong research skills, and organizational abilities. Familiarity with library management systems, digital archives, and cataloguing tools like MARC or Dewey Decimal Classification is essential. Excellent communication, customer service, and problem-solving skills help librarians engage diverse patrons and collaborate with colleagues. These competencies ensure effective resource management, support lifelong learning, and enhance community access to information.

What do library workers do?

Library workers assist patrons in finding and borrowing materials, organize and maintain collections, and help with research and technology use. They may also plan educational programs, manage digital resources, and support community events. The specific duties depend on the role, such as librarian, library assistant, or technician, but all focus on making information accessible to the public.

What Qualifications Do I Need to Get a Job in a Library?

Different library jobs have varying qualifications. To become a librarian, you need a master’s degree in either library science or information studies. This is important if you work with students in an academic setting. You also need some research experience and a strong awareness of research procedures and tools. Library technicians and assistants need to have a high school diploma or a GED certificate and strong administrative skills. If you are seeking a job in library computer support, you need at least a bachelor’s degree in information technologies.

What are some common challenges faced by library staff when adapting to digital resources and technology?

Library staff often encounter challenges such as staying current with rapidly evolving digital platforms, assisting patrons with varying levels of tech literacy, and integrating new technologies with existing catalog systems. Balancing traditional library services with digital resource management requires ongoing training and flexibility. However, many libraries provide professional development opportunities and foster a supportive team environment to help staff successfully navigate these changes.

What is the difference between Library vs Archivist?

AspectLibraryArchivist
Required CredentialsLibrary degree or certification, MLS/MLISArchival certification, MLS/MLIS often preferred
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special librariesArchives, museums, historical institutions
Industry UsageInformation management, education, public servicePreservation, historical records, cultural heritage

Libraries and archivists both manage information resources, but libraries focus on providing access to current materials for the public or specific groups, while archivists preserve historical records and rare collections. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Library jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Boston, MA? The most popular types of Library jobs in Boston, MA are:
What are popular job titles related to Library jobs in Boston, MA? For Library jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Library jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Library jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Library job openings:
Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library job openings in Boston, MA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,560 per year, or $17.1 per hour.
Harvard Divinity School Librarian

Harvard Divinity School Librarian

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Harvard University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 535 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Company Description
By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.
Why join Harvard Divinity School?
Harvard Divinity School (HDS) is a nonsectarian school of religious and theological studies that educates students both in the pursuit of the academic study of religion and in preparation for leadership in religious, governmental, and a wide range of service organizations. HDS provides an intellectual home where scholars and professionals from around the globe research and teach the varieties of religion, in service of a just world at peace across religious and cultural divides.
Job Description
Job Summary:
Harvard Divinity School (HDS) and Harvard Library seek a collaborative, inspiring leader to direct the Divinity School Library. Working directly with the Harvard Divinity School and with colleagues across Harvard Library, the Harvard Divinity School Librarian provides leadership in the ongoing evolution of unparallelled scholarly resources services supporting the study of religion at Harvard. The library staff cultivates a welcoming, user-oriented environment for teaching, learning, and collaboration among students, scholars, and librarians.
Reporting to the Dean of the Divinity School and working closely with the Vice President for the Harvard Library and University Librarian or delegates, the Librarian is a member of the school's senior management team and the Harvard Library leadership team. The Librarian provides leadership and vision for the collection, as well as the operations and programs that support a diverse array of collection development, research support, teaching and learning, digital scholarship, and community activities centered on the library's expertise in the study of religion.
Job-Specific Responsibilities:
  • Oversee the management of the collections to ensure the selection and maintenance of well-balanced, innovative collections to support the teaching and research programs at Harvard.
  • Advise and work closely with the Dean and Administrative Dean of the Divinity School on library matters.
  • Prepare and recommend annual budget; monitor budget expenditures; assist with grant preparation and writing.
  • Develop strong partnerships and collaborations across Harvard Library and with other University schools and academic programs to meet the teaching and research needs of faculty, scholars, and students.
  • Through robust assessment and user engagement, develop effective strategies, programs, and library services to meet ever-changing user needs.
  • Oversee the ongoing preservation and access of HDS' unique collections, in collaboration with Harvard Library colleagues.
  • Promote continuous learning and improvement through staff recruitment, retention, professional development, and mentoring. Supervise HDS library staff. Partner with and support the on-site Harvard Library services team, ensuring alignment with library standards and provide on-the-ground guidance as needed.
  • Maintain strong organizational health and effectiveness at the HDS Library through planning and assessment.
  • Participate in library fund raising, working with the HDS development and communications offices; build strong partnerships with donors. Establish effective relationships and communications with supporters and collections contributors.
  • Contribute to HDS leadership by active participation in the administrative council and other senior management committees and ensure strong alignment with School and University priorities.
  • Chair the HDS Library Committee to strengthen support for faculty initiatives in teaching, learning and research.
  • Demonstrate professional leadership and commitment and conduct outreach and advocacy in appropriate regional, national, and international professional organizations and engage in collaborations with external groups such as the libraries of the Boston Theological Institute and the Atla.
  • In partnership with HDS Facilities and Operations manage the HDS Library facilities.

Qualifications
Basic Qualifications:
ALA-accredited MLS degree or equivalent professional experience required. At least 8 years' experience in a library management role.
Additional Qualifications and Skills:
  • Advanced theological degree strongly preferred.
  • Successful managerial experience in a graduate theological or university library.
  • Thorough understanding of technology in library settings; Record of leadership in integrating information technologies with traditional library resources and services.
  • Demonstrated record of collaboration leadership and management style and at intra- and interinstitutional levels.
  • Demonstrated leadership and expertise leading a variety of collection management approaches.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of archives and special collections.
  • Successful administrative experience, including responsibility for budgeting and human resource management; commitment to staff mentorship and development essential.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to work effectively with faculty, students, and staff in a diverse community.
  • Ability to provide creative leadership within a collegial administrative environment.
  • Knowledge of higher education institutions and ability to respond to faculty and student expectations. Understanding of evolving issues in higher education and scholarly communication.
  • Thorough understanding of theological literature, both historical and current, and experience with collection management.
  • Understanding of conservation and preservation of library materials.
  • Experience in developing external funding sources to enhance library collections and services preferred.
  • Ability to effectively manage through change essential.
  • IMPORTANT NOTE: Your cover letter and resume should be combined into a SINGLE DOCUMENT under the resume tab. Cover letters are required for every position at Harvard Divinity School. We regret that the Harvard Divinity School does not provide Visa sponsorship.

Additional Information
  • Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
  • Compensation Range/Rate (including Shift Differential if applicable): $155,000-$175,000
  • Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
  • Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education
  • Other Information:
    Further information about the library may be found on our website at http://www.HDS.Harvard.edu/library/ and https://library.harvard.edu/visit-about/about-harvard-library

Work Format Details
This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University's Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.
Salary Grade and Ranges
This position is salary grade level 060. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.
Benefits
Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:
  • Generous paid time off including parental leave
  • Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
  • Retirement plans with university contributions
  • Wellbeing and mental health resources
  • Support for families and caregivers
  • Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
  • Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.
EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement
Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.
Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

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