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Manuscript Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Howard

Prints and Photographs Librarian

Library, PA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Provides reference and research assistance and reproduction services to users of manuscript ... Knowledge of library and archival techniques, theories and practices. * Knowledge of photographic ...

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Manuscript Librarian information

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$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 Manuscript librarians also assist researchers in locating and interpreting historical documents, and may curate exhibitions or develop educational programs based on their collections.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.

Associate Performance Librarian (Year-Round)

Interlochen, MI • On-site

Interlochen Center for the Arts
Elementary and Secondary Schools • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Interlochen Center for the Artsexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Interlochen Center for the Arts seeks a full-time Associate Performance Librarian to join the team of the Fennell Music Library. The Fennell Music Library serves the music program of two world-renowned programs, Interlochen Arts Camp and Interlochen Arts Academy. This position ensures that the Library meets the individual and programmatic needs of the performing ensembles at Interlochen Arts Camp and Interlochen Arts Academy. Occasional evening and weekend hours may be required.

The Library staff:

  • Builds meaningful professional relationships with faculty and staff

  • Assists patrons in locating and accessing information

  • Acquires, processes, maintains, and develops a collection that reflects and anticipates patrons' needs

  • Creates a welcoming and supportive atmosphere in the library

Under the supervision of the Principal Performance Librarian and the Director of Libraries, the Associate Performance Librarian supports the operations of the ICA Ensembles Library. The Frederick Fennell Library houses an extensive collection of large ensemble performance materials (including orchestra, wind ensemble, choir, and jazz, among others), along with chamber music and scores, and is responsible for preparing and providing scores/parts to all ICA performance groups.

The Performance Library staff focuses on core areas of responsibility, while also supporting the full scope of the Library's operations. Librarians are expected to understand ensemble library procedures, be knowledgeable about best practices for the maintenance and distribution of performance materials, have a broad knowledge of music, and work independently. The Associate Performance Librarian prepares music for assigned ensembles and assists with organizing, preparing, and distributing sheet music and scores, ensuring ensembles have access to the necessary repertoire for performances and rehearsals. Additionally, the Associate Performance Librarian assists in the preparation of materials for rehearsals and performances, and collaborates closely with conductors, musicians, and administrative staff to support the artistic and operational needs of the ensemble. This is a full-time, permanent, 12-month position starting in August 2026.

 Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Assist in the preparation of parts and scores for Academy and Camp ensembles, including orchestra, band, jazz, and choir
  • Ability to read/write music in different clefs and transpositions, transcribe parts, and copy orchestra parts legibly and quickly using hand manuscript and computer notation software
  • Ability to correct/edit scores by hand, as well as digitally using Adobe Acrobat and Photoshop
  • Some experience with and knowledge of orchestral/band/choral/jazz repertoire and sources
  • Develop and maintain productive relationships with faculty
  • Work with faculty from various arts divisions on programmatic needs for the Academy and Camp
  • Create hard copy sets from digital acquisitions
  • Assist in the processing of rental acquisitions: check rental sets for completeness, help package and return rental sets by publisher deadlines in the requested condition\
  • Respond to the general Music Library phone line, responding to inquiries or directing to the appropriate staff member
  • Photocopier maintenance: ensure copier supplies are in stock, place service requests when needed
  • Maintain archival records, including performance/repertoire history lists and physical program archive
  • Assist with the training and supervision of student assistants and summer interns
  • Participate in school-wide committee/volunteer work as appropriate
  • Perform other duties as assigned

  • Bachelor's degree in Music required; master's degree in Music preferred
  • Three to five years of progressively responsible experience in an ensemble or performance library preferred
  • Thorough knowledge of orchestral literature, foreign musical terms, musical notation, performance markings, including bowings, and contemporary notation
  • Understanding of current and emerging trends and best practices in performance librarianship
  • Proficiency with Google Workspace, music notation software (Sibelius and/or Dorico), Adobe Creative Cloud (including Acrobat and Photoshop), Koha, and Mac OS
  • Ability to work effectively with highly creative students from diverse educational backgrounds and varying levels of readiness
  • Openness to incorporating the arts as a mode of instruction and/or assessment
  • Strong collaborative skills and the ability to work effectively with faculty, conductors, musicians, colleagues, and administrative staff
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to follow and execute detailed verbal and written instructions
  • Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders
  • Demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive, respectful environment that values cultural, ethnic, spiritual, linguistic, and personal diversity

Application Materials Required:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter