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Museum Library Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Norman Rockwell Museum

Registrar

Stockbridge, MA · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

A. in art history, museum studies, library science, or equivalent, plus a minimum of five years progressively responsible experience as a registrar in a collecting institutional setting. Familiarity ...

Norman Rockwell Museum

Registrar

Stockbridge, MA · On-site

A. in art history, museum studies, library science, or equivalent, plus a minimum of five years progressively responsible experience as a registrar in a collecting institutional setting. Familiarity ...

Event Temps

Banquet Servers

Boston, MA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

JFK Library, Museum of Science Converse. MIT/Harvard. Misselwood@Endicott College. Country Clubs. Peabody Essex Museum. Boston Children's Museum. State House. *OTHER POSITIONS WE CONSIDER INCLUDE:

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How much do museum library jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum library in Massachusetts is $17.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $19.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a museum library?

A museum library is a specialized library located within a museum that collects, preserves, and provides access to materials related to the museum's subject areas, such as art, history, science, or culture. These libraries support museum staff, researchers, and sometimes the public by offering books, manuscripts, archives, photographs, and digital resources relevant to the museum's collections and exhibitions. Museum libraries play a crucial role in research, exhibition development, and educational programming.

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

To thrive as a Museum Librarian, you typically need a master's degree in library science or information studies, with knowledge of archival practices and museum collections management. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital cataloging tools, and archival databases is essential. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences are important soft skills. These competencies ensure that museum collections are properly preserved, accessible, and engaging for researchers and the public.

How do museum library professionals typically collaborate with curators and educators to enhance exhibitions and public programs?

Museum Library professionals often work closely with curators and educators to provide research support, source historical documents, and recommend relevant literature for exhibitions and public programs. They may assist in developing bibliographies, creating reading lists for visitors, or curating special collections that complement current exhibitions. This collaboration ensures that the museum's educational initiatives are well-informed and that visitors have access to deeper contextual information, making the museum experience richer and more engaging.

What is the difference between Museum Library vs Archivist?

AspectMuseum LibraryArchivist
CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science or related fieldMaster's degree in Library Science, Archival Studies, or History
Work EnvironmentLibraries within museums, research centersArchives, museums, cultural institutions
Industry UsageManaging museum collections' information resourcesPreserving and organizing historical records and documents
Common Search IntentRoles related to museum information managementPreservation and access of archival materials

While both Museum Librarians and Archivists work within cultural institutions and require similar educational backgrounds, Museum Librarians focus on managing library collections and providing access to information resources within museums. Archivists specialize in preserving, organizing, and providing access to historical records and documents. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the museum and cultural heritage sector.

What are popular job titles related to Museum Library jobs in Massachusetts?

For Museum Library jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Museum Library jobs in Massachusetts look for?

The top searched job categories for Museum Library jobs in Massachusetts are:

Museum Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Library job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,747 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Assistant Cataloging Librarian

Rowley, MA • On-site

Peabody Essex Museum
Museums and Historical Sites • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Peabody Essex Museumexternal

$21.63 - $26.50/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

The Peabody Essex Museum's Phillips Library seeks a full-time Assistant Cataloging Librarian to fulfill the role of primary cataloger on staff, an essential role to improve intellectual and physical access to our collections. They will work closely with the Technical Services Librarian to identify cataloging priorities, implement equitable descriptive practices, streamline workflows, reduce the backlog, serve as a resource for cataloging-related questions, and maintain cataloging-related systems. The Assistant Cataloging Librarian is expected to participate collaboratively in library-wide and museum-wide projects and initiatives.

We are seeking a candidate that has around 2-4 years cataloging experience along with knowledge of library and archival standards such as RDA, DCRM(B), LCSH, and MARC. Experience with library services platforms, original cataloging of special collections, and managing cataloging software and systems preferred. Excellent communication, problem-solving skills, flexibility, and a commitment to teamwork. Sensitivity to proper care and handling of materials; a working knowledge of Chinese, Japanese, and/or Korean is a plus.

An ALA-accredited degree in library/information science, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The abilities to use computing tools and to lift, carry, and position books and other materials weighing up to 15 lbs; library materials may be stored on shelves up to 12 feet high. Their work will take place at PEM's Collection Center in Rowley, Massachusetts, with occasional responsibilities at the museum campus in Salem. Reliable transportation is required. The hourly range for this role is $21.63 to $26.50 commensurate with experience.
We will being reviewing applications immediately, so please apply as soon as possible. The closing date is subject to change at any time.

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