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Masters In Library Science Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Research Librarian

Washington, DC · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

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

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Masters In Library Science information

How much can you make with a Master's in library science?

A person with a Master's in Library Science typically earns between $45,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of library or information organization. Salaries can be higher for specialized roles or in urban areas with a higher cost of living.

What is the difference between Masters In Library Science vs Library Technician?

AspectMasters In Library ScienceLibrary Technician
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science or Information ScienceAssociate's degree or post-secondary certificate in library technology
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special libraries; research institutionsPublic, school, or small community libraries
Employer & Industry UsageLibraries, educational institutions, archivesLibraries, schools, government agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding advanced roles, qualifications, and career pathsEntry-level library support roles, job requirements

The Masters In Library Science prepares individuals for advanced librarian roles requiring a master's degree, while Library Technicians typically hold an associate's or certificate and perform support tasks. The MLS is suited for those seeking leadership, research, or specialized positions, whereas Library Technicians focus on day-to-day library operations and assistance.

What is a Masters in Library Science?

A Masters in Library Science (MLS) is a graduate degree that prepares individuals for professional careers in libraries, archives, and information centers. The program typically covers subjects such as information organization, research methods, digital librarianship, and management of library services. Graduates are qualified for roles such as librarians, archivists, data curators, and information specialists in schools, public libraries, universities, and other organizations. Earning an MLS is often required for librarian positions in many public and academic libraries in the United States.

What types of career advancement opportunities are available for professionals with a Masters in Library Science?

Professionals with a Masters in Library Science (MLS) can pursue a variety of career advancement opportunities, including moving into supervisory or management roles such as Library Director, Branch Manager, or Department Head. Many MLS graduates also specialize in areas like digital curation, archival management, or information technology, which can open doors to positions in academia, government, or corporate settings. Additionally, staying current with emerging technologies and obtaining certifications can help MLS holders progress into leadership or specialized expert roles. Networking, professional association involvement, and ongoing education are also important for career growth in this field.

What can I do with a masters in library science?

A master's in library science prepares individuals for roles such as librarian, archivist, information specialist, or digital librarian. Graduates can work in public, academic, or special libraries, managing collections, providing research assistance, or developing information systems, often requiring knowledge of cataloging, reference services, and library management software.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a role requiring a Master’s in Library Science, and why are they important?

To thrive in positions requiring a Master’s in Library Science, you need a solid understanding of information organization, research methods, and digital resource management, typically supported by an ALA-accredited MLS or MLIS degree. Familiarity with library management systems (like Koha or Alma), cataloging tools, and digital archiving platforms is essential. Strong interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills help librarians effectively serve diverse communities and collaborate with colleagues. These competencies ensure efficient access to information, high-quality service, and the ability to adapt to evolving library technologies.

Is a Master's in library science useful?

A Master's in Library Science prepares individuals for careers as librarians, archivists, and information specialists, providing skills in information management, cataloging, and digital resources. It is often required for public, academic, and special library positions and can lead to roles involving research, community outreach, and information technology tools.

Can you make 6 figures as a librarian?

Masters in Library Science (MLS) professionals typically earn salaries below six figures, with median salaries often ranging from $50,000 to $70,000 annually. However, some senior or specialized roles, such as library directors or university librarians, can reach or exceed six-figure salaries with experience and additional responsibilities.
What are popular job titles related to Masters In Library Science jobs in Washington? For Masters In Library Science jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Masters In Library Science jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Masters In Library Science jobs in Washington are:
Infographic showing various Masters In Library Science job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.
Library Technician (Metadata and Digitization Support)

Library Technician (Metadata and Digitization Support)

Library Systems & Services LLC

Bethesda, MD

$24.49 - $33/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Description

LAC Federal is seeking a detail-oriented Library Technician to support a federal library in Bethesda, Maryland. The Library Technician will assist with large-scale metadata cleanup, catalog maintenance, digitization support, data entry, and collections management activities supporting biomedical and scientific library collections. This position supports the accessibility, discoverability, and long-term management of library and archival resources in one of the world's leading biomedical research libraries. The ideal candidate will possess strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience working with library metadata, digitization workflows, and technical services operations in a library, archives, or research environment.


Duties and Responsibilities

  • Perform bibliographic record maintenance, metadata cleanup, and data entry activities in integrated library systems and databases. 
  • Update, edit, and verify bibliographic, holdings, and item records according to established procedures and metadata standards. 
  • Support digitization projects by preparing materials for scanning, conducting quality control review, and tracking digitized content. 
  • Assist with inventory, shelf reading, shifting, labeling, and physical organization of library and archival collections. 
  • Create and maintain spreadsheets, logs, tracking systems, and project documentation related to metadata and digitization projects. 
  • Perform authority control support and metadata normalization activities under librarian supervision. 
  • Assist with retrospective conversion, record migration, and collection remediation initiatives. 
  • Handle library materials carefully in accordance with preservation and special collections handling procedures. 
  • Support scanning, file naming, image quality review, and basic digital asset management workflows. 
  • Conduct database searching and verification activities using library catalogs, OCLC, and related systems. 
  • Assist with packaging, rehousing, and preparation of materials for preservation or digitization activities. 
  • Prepare monthly productivity reports and status updates related to assigned project activities. 


Requirements

Mandatory Qualifications

  • Associate degree or higher in Library Science, Information Management, History, Digital Humanities, Archives Management, or a related field; OR equivalent combination of education and relevant library technical services experience. 
  • Minimum of one (1) year of experience working in a library, archives, museum, records management, or information services environment. 
  • Experience performing data entry, metadata cleanup, catalog maintenance, or database support activities. 
  • Demonstrated attention to detail and ability to perform repetitive tasks with a high degree of accuracy. 
  • Basic familiarity with library metadata standards or library systems, including MARC records or integrated library systems. 
  • Experience using Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and Word. 
  • Ability to organize, prioritize, and complete assigned tasks in a deadline-driven environment. 
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills. 
  • Ability to lift and move library materials, boxes, or carts weighing up to approximately 40 pounds as part of collections support activities. 
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance and NIH badge. 


Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Library and Information Science, History, Archives, Museum Studies, or related discipline. 
  • Experience working in a biomedical, academic, research, or federal library environment. 
  • Familiarity with Ex Libris Alma, OCLC Connexion, CONTENTdm, ArchivesSpace, or similar systems. 
  • Experience supporting digitization, scanning, or digital collections projects. 
  • Knowledge of MARC21, Dublin Core, metadata cleanup, or authority control concepts. 
  • Experience using spreadsheet tools for metadata tracking or quality review activities. 
  • Familiarity with preservation handling procedures for rare or fragile materials. 
  • Experience performing quality assurance or quality control reviews on metadata or digital files. 
  • Reading knowledge of one or more foreign languages helpful for metadata verification work. 
  • Interest in pursuing a career in librarianship, archives, or information management. 

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift, carry, push, and move library materials, archival boxes, carts, and collections weighing up to 40 pounds as part of collections management and digitization support activities. 
  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while performing repetitive data entry, metadata review, scanning preparation, quality control, and computer-based technical services work. 
  • Ability to perform frequent bending, reaching, shelving, sorting, and handling of library and archival materials while maintaining careful attention to preservation and organizational procedures.

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.