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How much do metadata library jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for metadata library in the United States is $18.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are metadata librarians and what do they do?

Metadata librarians are information professionals who manage and organize metadata, which is data that describes other data, for library collections. They create, edit, and maintain metadata records to ensure resources are discoverable, accessible, and properly described in library catalogs and digital repositories. Their work supports searchability, digital preservation, and resource sharing by applying standards and best practices for cataloging. Metadata librarians often collaborate with IT staff, archivists, and subject specialists to enhance user access to library materials.

What is the difference between Metadata Library vs Metadata Specialist?

AspectMetadata LibraryMetadata Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in library science, information management, or related fieldsRequires similar credentials, often with additional certifications in data management or information systems
Work EnvironmentLibraries, archives, or information centers managing large metadata collectionsData-driven organizations, digital repositories, or information management teams
Employer & IndustryLibraries, museums, archives, academic institutionsTech companies, publishing, digital content providers
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding library metadata management rolesSpecialized data and metadata management tasks

The main difference is that a Metadata Library focuses on managing metadata within library and archival settings, while a Metadata Specialist handles metadata in broader digital and data environments. Both roles require similar credentials but serve different industry needs.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a metadata library role, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in a metadata library role often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistency and accuracy in metadata standards across diverse collections, keeping up with evolving cataloging guidelines, and integrating new technologies or platforms. Addressing these challenges typically involves ongoing training, collaboration with colleagues to develop clear metadata policies, and staying informed about industry best practices. Regular communication with IT teams and subject specialists is also key to ensuring that metadata effectively supports discoverability and access for library users.

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

To thrive as a Metadata Librarian, you need expertise in cataloging standards (such as MARC, Dublin Core), metadata schema, and information organization, usually supported by a Master's in Library Science or a related field. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), metadata management tools, and knowledge of cataloging software like OCLC Connexion is typical. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills help ensure accuracy and facilitate collaboration with library staff. These skills and qualities are crucial to maintaining accessible, well-organized digital and print collections that support user discovery and research.
More about Metadata Library jobs
What cities are hiring for Metadata Library jobs? Cities with the most Metadata Library job openings:
What states have the most Metadata Library jobs? States with the most job openings for Metadata Library jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Metadata Library jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Metadata Library jobs are:
Metadata Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Metadata Library job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,859 per year, or $18.7 per hour.
Metadata Librarian

Metadata Librarian

Library Systems & Services LLC

Silver Spring, MD

$70K - $85K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Description

LAC Federal is seeking a Metadata Librarian to work at a major Federal library in Silver Spring, MD. The Metadata Librarian will support physical archive management activities in both MD and NC, with a focus on document consolidation and coordination with the federal library to inventory, evaluate and identify those appropriate for consolidation or relocation, and effect record moves to the appropriate office or other disposition as necessary. This is a one-year full-time (40 hours a week; Monday to Friday) benefited contract position. 


Duties and Responsibilities

  • Support receipt, cataloging, evaluation, consolidation, disposition, metadata development, maintenance, shelving, and management of the agency's physical archive holdings, including but not limited to paper documents, magnetic tapes, and various other digital media, fiche, film and other physical media 
  • Review, separate and inventory contents of records and non-records containers maintained at various facilities to prepare the records for transfer to the appropriate records retention center 
  • Create or update agency's records and such other standards-compliant catalog metadata as per the agency's Library and/or WorldCat 
  • Coordinate with the agency to ensure that publications are annotated with appropriate information to link publications to archival holdings 
  • Confirm that analog documentation matches digital archival contents prior to transferring or disposing of analog documentation 
  • Ensure physical archive records are reasonably secure and safe during and following an emergency situation to include following any established notification protocol (Though a rare occurrence, leaks and other emergencies threatening the      security and integrity of the physical archives may occur) 

Requirements

  • MLS or MLIS from an ALA-accredited institution 
  • Experience working in various databases and specialized systems unique to the agency, as well as common office automation and other software tools.  
  • Experience in library technical services, knowledge of library and data science best practices, standards-based metadata, and an ability to develop an effective workflow, tracking and reporting processes are required.  
  • Ability to lift boxes of media, some of which may weigh more than 40 pounds (similar to a case of copier paper)   

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, reach, and use hands and fingers for extended periods of time in a library, archive, or office environment. 
  • Ability to frequently lift, carry, move, shelve, and transport boxes of media, archival materials, files, and equipment weighing up to 40 pounds. 
  • Ability to travel throughout library, archive, storage, and office areas, including retrieving materials, operating standard office equipment, and handling physical archival collections for prolonged periods.

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.

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