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Manuscript Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The MTHS Library & Archives has custody over and the management of the most comprehensive ... The collection includes books, maps, pamphlets, posters, periodicals, newspapers, manuscript ...

New

The MTHS Library & Archives has custody over and the management of the most comprehensive ... The collection includes books, maps, pamphlets, posters, periodicals, newspapers, manuscript ...

The MTHS Library & Archives has custody over and the management of the most comprehensive ... The collection includes books, maps, pamphlets, posters, periodicals, newspapers, manuscript ...

New

The MTHS Library & Archives has custody over and the management of the most comprehensive ... The collection includes books, maps, pamphlets, posters, periodicals, newspapers, manuscript ...

New

Manuscript Archivist

Madison, WI · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

Its library, archives and collections, historic sites and museums, historic preservation office ... Manuscripts Coordination Archivist plays an important role in making manuscript material available ...

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The University Librarian supervises academic support services including the Academic Support Center (writing, academic skills, and statistics support), and the Office of Manuscript Preparation ...

The University Librarian supervises academic support services including the Academic Support Center (writing, academic skills, and statistics support), and the Office of Manuscript Preparation ...

The University Librarian supervises academic support services including the Academic Support Center (writing, academic skills, and statistics support), and the Office of Manuscript Preparation ...

POSITION SUMMARY The Assistant Librarian will work closely with the Principal Librarian to provide ... hand manuscript and computer notation software. Familiarity with score editions and reference ...

Description POSITION SUMMARY The Assistant Librarian will work closely with the Principal Librarian ... manuscript and computer notation software. • Familiarity with score editions and reference ...

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Manuscript Librarian information

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$26K

$62.1K

$100.5K

How much do manuscript librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for manuscript librarian in the United States is $62,056.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $72,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a manuscript librarian?

Manuscript librarians are professionals who specialize in the care, organization, and accessibility of handwritten materials, such as letters, diaries, and archival documents, often housed in libraries or special collections. They are responsible for cataloging, preserving, and sometimes digitizing these materials to ensure their long-term availability for research and education. Manuscript librarians also assist researchers in locating and interpreting historical documents, and may curate exhibitions or develop educational programs based on their collections.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a manuscript librarian?

To thrive as a Manuscript Librarian, you need expertise in archival science, metadata standards, and historical research, often supported by a master's degree in library science or a related field. Familiarity with archival management systems, digitization tools, and preservation techniques is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and excellent communication skills help in managing collections and collaborating with researchers. These abilities are crucial for preserving rare materials, facilitating scholarly access, and maintaining the integrity of archival collections.

What are some of the main challenges faced by manuscript librarians in managing historical collections?

Manuscript Librarians often encounter challenges such as preserving delicate and sometimes deteriorating materials, cataloging items with limited provenance information, and balancing public access with conservation needs. Additionally, they must stay current with evolving digitization technologies to make collections accessible to a wider audience while ensuring proper metadata standards. Collaboration with archivists, researchers, and digital specialists is frequently required to meet both scholarly and preservation goals.

What is the difference between Manuscript Librarian vs Archivist?

AspectManuscript LibrarianArchivist
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science or related field, often with archival courseworkMaster's degree in Library Science, History, or Archival Studies, with archival certification
Work EnvironmentLibraries, special collections, academic institutionsArchives, museums, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, research, and special librariesHistorical societies, government, cultural institutions
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on managing manuscripts and rare collectionsFocuses on preserving and organizing historical records and documents

While both Manuscript Librarians and Archivists work with historical and rare materials, Manuscript Librarians primarily manage special collections within libraries, whereas Archivists focus on preserving and organizing historical records across various institutions. Their roles often overlap, but their environments and specific responsibilities differ.

What are popular job titles related to Manuscript Librarian jobs?

For Manuscript Librarian jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Manuscript Librarian job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,056 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Librarian - Fulltime - Days - Detroit

Detroit, MI

Henry Ford Health System
51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

GENERAL SUMMARY:

Under direction of department leadership, develops, implements and/or coordinates highly specialized professional library services in one or more of the following areas: Reference services, System-wide selection, licensing and organization of library materials, Library system-wide website development and oversite, System-wide library curriculum development, instruction and manuscript preparation, System-wide electronic journal management and scholarly activity tracking, Document delivery and interlibrary loan services, or Day-to-day management of a regional library. The customers and end users of these services include physicians, researchers, other clinical service providers, and hospital leadership. 

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

  • Master's Degree in Information/Library Science from an A.L.A. accredited program.
  • Certification within the Academy of Health Information Professionals (AHIP) is required within one year of employment.
  • Two (2) years of professional (post Master's) library experience or one year professional (post Master's) library experience in a medical or an academic library setting (more experience is much preferred).
  • Master's Degree in Information/Library Science from an A.L.A. accredited program preferred.
  • Certification within the Academy of Health Information Professionals (AHIP) preferred.
  • Three-four (3-4) years of professional (post Master's) library experience in a medical or an academic library setting preferred.
  • Excellent critical thinking and analytical skills.
  • Advanced verbal and written skills, including formal and informal presentation skills.
  • Strong organization, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
  • Ability to work independently, prioritize work, and meet deadlines.
  • Expert skills in searching major medical and scientific databases including PubMed, CINAHL, and Embase. Excellent internet searching skills.
  • Strong knowledge of evidence based medicine principles and practice.
  • Overall knowledge of library tools, systems, and resources, including integrated library systems (e.g. SirsiDynix), library link resolver software (e.g. SFX), and document delivery/interlibrary loan systems (e.g. ILLiad).
  • Familiarity with standard library bibliographic databases (e.g. OCLC) and standards (e.g. MARC).
  • Familiarity with the EndNote citation management program and with the LibGuides content management and curation platform. Solid technology background, including proficiency in Microsoft Office.
  • Strong interpersonal, teamwork, and customer-service skills.
  • Commitment to lifelong learning and professional development. Ability to lift, bend, and reach materials on library shelving, including handling these materials while standing on rolling ladders and stepstools.

CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSURES REQUIRED:

  • AHIP. The Medical Library Association Academy of Health Information Professionals.