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Metadata Library Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Department of Human Services

Librarian

Rockville, MD · On-site

$121K/yr

The National Library of Medicine seeks a Senior Metadata Librarian to develop, implement, and optimize metadata standards supporting biomedical, scientific, and digital collections. This role ...

New

Department of Human Services

Librarian

Rockville, MD · On-site

$121K/yr

The National Library of Medicine seeks a Senior Metadata Librarian to develop, implement, and optimize metadata standards supporting biomedical, scientific, and digital collections. This role ...

New

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Metadata Library information

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.
What are popular job titles related to Metadata Library jobs in Washington? For Metadata Library jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Metadata Library jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Metadata Library jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Metadata Library jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Metadata Library job openings:
Metadata Library jobs near you
Library Technician

Library Technician

Library Systems & Services LLC

Bethesda, MD • On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Description

 LAC Federal is seeking a detail-oriented Library Technician to support a dissertations processing team at a nationally recognized federal research library in Bethesda, MD.This position is ideal for early-career library professionals, MLIS students, or candidates with strong humanities backgrounds seeking hands-on experience working with scholarly research materials in a structured federal environment.

The Library Technician will assist with reviewing, processing, and preparing dissertation materials for long-term preservation and discoverability. The role includes reviewing metadata in Alma, comparing records to physical materials, and completing standard physical processing tasks.

Because this role supports dissertation materials, candidates must have familiarity with academic theses or dissertations and reading familiarity with at least one of the following languages: German, French, or Latin. Fluency is not required; the ability to interpret titles and basic publication information is sufficient.


Responsibilities

  • Search and review bibliographic records in Alma.
  • Compare metadata (titles, authors, publication details) to physical dissertation materials.
  • Update bibliographic, holdings, and item records in accordance with established standards.
  • Perform physical processing tasks such as labeling, barcoding, and rehousing materials.
  • Follow cataloging and preservation workflows.
  • Identify potential duplicate materials for review.
  • Meet production expectations while maintaining high accuracy.

Requirements

  • At least 1 year of library, academic, or research support experience (coursework may count).
  • Familiarity with academic theses or dissertations.
  • Reading familiarity with at least one of the following languages: German, French, or Latin.
  • Basic knowledge of MARC21 or cataloging principles (academic coursework acceptable).
  • Familiarity with library systems or databases (Alma experience preferred but not required).
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow structured workflows.
  • Ability to work onsite in Bethesda, MD.
  • Ability to obtain a Public Trust clearance.
  • Ability to lift up to 25 pounds and work with archival materials.

Preferred Qualifications

  • MLIS degree completed or in progress.
  • Coursework in cataloging or metadata.
  • Experience working with scholarly publications.
  • Experience handling fragile or archival materials.

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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