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Metadata Library Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Experience with SharePoint lists, libraries, metadata, or tagging * Experience handling structured file organization, naming conventions, or versioning * Experience with Power Platform interfaces ...

... using libraries, packages or tools such as SciPy, NumPy, ArcPy, GDAL, R, Math.NET, MatLab, etc ... metadata analysis, and intelligent query or decision-support systems • Excellent verbal and ...

Metadata Library information

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.

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 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.

Can you make 6 figures as a librarian?

While most librarians earn below six figures, some specialized roles such as library directors or those working in large institutions with advanced degrees and certifications can reach or exceed a six-figure salary. Achieving this level often requires extensive experience, additional qualifications, and leadership responsibilities.

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 popular job titles related to Metadata Library jobs in Alabama? For Metadata Library jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Metadata Library jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Metadata Library job openings:
Infographic showing various Metadata Library job openings in Alabama as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Graduate Intern - Special Collections

Huntsville Public Library

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$17.50/hr

Internship

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Internship
Description
POSITION TITLE: Graduate Intern, Special Collections
The Huntsville-Madison County Public Library is a non-profit library system comprised of ten locations providing library and information services to the city of Huntsville and the surrounding Madison County area. HMCPL is seeking a Graduate Intern to aid in digitization and processing projects.
The ideal candidate will be well-organized, passionate about archives and libraries, and excited to connect the community with historical resources.
LOCATION:
Special Collections Department at the Downtown Huntsville Public Library
915 Monroe Street SW
Huntsville, AL 35801
HOURS AND COMPENSATION: This is a 120-hour internship, with a pay rate of $17.50 per hour ($2,100 overall, subject to taxes). This position does not provide benefits. General schedule is subject to negotiation. This position is scheduled to start in June 2026.
GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES:
This is professional work developing archival skills within a specialized library department. Assists in digitization projects, processing archival materials, and other skill-building tasks that result in complete work products for the intern. The position requires that the intern have basic knowledge of archival practices. This position is classified as Non-exempt for the purposes of the Fair Labor Standards Act.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Works under the direction of the manager of HMCPL Special Collections.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED: None
PROJECT DETAILS: The graduate intern will digitize a portion of the Photographs Collection, an archival collection within the HMCPL Special Collections Department. The intern will produce high-resolution scans of each photograph, create metadata, and carefully organize and label the digital files. The intern will use the images scanned to produce a minimum of five digital photograph collections to be shared on the HMCPL Special Collections online archival database, complete with curated descriptions and history/biographical information. The internship is a piece of a larger effort to process and digitize the entirety of the HMCPL Photographs Collection. Funding for this internship is provided by a Huntsville-Madison County Library Foundation grant.
Work products will include:
  • Digitization of historical photographs
  • Creation of metadata for historical photographs
  • Enable researcher access to digitized photographs through online and onsite Special Collections platforms
  • Curated digital photograph collections to be shared through online Special Collections platforms
  • Brief article on the collection and its importance, with potential for publication within Library system
  • Additional projects as time and resources allow.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
  • Professionalism- Represents the mission and goals of the library while working with community partners.
  • Teamwork- Works well with Special Collections staff and staff of community partners to accomplish project goals.
  • Skill-building- Has a base knowledge of archival best practices. Open to learning new archival skills and practices, including:
  • digitization mechanics
  • processing archival materials
  • interacting with archives databases
  • Analysis- Demonstrates an ability to think critically. Able to read, analyze, and contextually interpret historical documentation, including working knowledge of cursive handwriting and/or historical script.

Specialized Expertise:
  • Works directly with the department head to oversee the care and preservation of the Library's Archives including assessing materials for preservation, research and application of conservation practices as needed and assisting patrons with the use of the archives for research purposes.
  • Provides research assistance and services to customers; completes historical research and prepares research for display, presentation, and/or future use by customers.

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS: Participates in special projects as assigned.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Requires sitting at a computer for extended periods of time. Requires standing, walking, reaching, climbing, stooping, and lifting/carrying items generally not exceeding 40 pounds. Must possess the vision required to read printed materials and a computer screen. Must possess the ability to hear and speak both in person and over the telephone. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: Generally, involves everyday risks or discomforts which require normal safety precautions typical of office environments. Special Collections environs may also include exposure to allergens such as dust and mold.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS :
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
General knowledge of professional archival principles, methods, materials, and practices; general knowledge of automated and computerized archives systems; ability to analyze and solve problems with guidance; competence in oral and written communications; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors, subordinates, associates, corporate representatives, officials of other agencies; proficiency with current computer programs and internet.
EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:
Must be enrolled in a Master's Degree program in Public History or Library Science (archival focus preferred) from an accredited college or university. Prior experience in digitization projects preferred, though not required. Base knowledge of archival best practices.
This job description is not nor is it intended to be a complete state of all duties, functions, and responsibilities that comprise this position. Intern may be expected to perform additional duties that may not be reflected in this description.
The Huntsville-Madison County Public Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Revised: 5/2026
Salary Description
$17.50/hr, 120-hour internship