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Music Library Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Umd

Part-time Lecturer in Music

College Park, MD

$140/hr

World-class research facilities near the campus include the Library of Congress, the Smithsonian ... Links: music.umd.edu; theclarice.umd.edu; arts.umd.edu ABOUT THE CAMPUS: Founded in 1856, the ...

Library Systems & Services LLC

Archivist

Washington, DC · On-site

$73K - $85K/yr

Process correspondence, subject files, music manuscripts, photographs, audiovisual materials ... Master of Library Science (MLS) or Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an ALA ...

Library Systems & Services LLC

Archivist

Washington, DC · On-site

$73K - $85K/yr

Process correspondence, subject files, music manuscripts, photographs, audiovisual materials ... Master of Library Science (MLS) or Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an ALA ...

Library of Congress

Attorney-Advisor (General)

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$121K - $187K/yr

Code) to authors of literary, dramatic, musical, artistic, and other works. The Attorney-Advisor in ... The United States Copyright Office, located within the Library of Congress and under the direction ...

Zimmerman Associates, Inc.

Archivist

Washington, DC · On-site

$43.76/hr

C.) Pay Rate: $43.76/hour Zimmerman Associates, Inc. (ZAI) is seeking an experienced Archivist to lead a project supporting the Music Division of a prominent federal library in Washington, D.C. This ...

Zimmerman Associates, Inc.

Archivist

Washington, DC

$43.76/hr

C.) Pay Rate: $43.76/hour Zimmerman Associates, Inc. (ZAI) is seeking an experienced Archivist to lead a project supporting the Music Division of a prominent federal library in Washington, D.C. This ...

Umd

Business Manager

College Park, MD

... Library. The School of Music offers B.A., B.M., M.A., M.M., Ph.D., and D.M.A degrees. Located within minutes of the Nation's Capital, the University is linked by mass transit to the homes of the ...

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All JobsMusic Library JobsMusic Library Jobs in Washington, DC

Music Library information

See Washington, DC salary details

$32.3K

$82.7K

$140.4K

How much do music library jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for music library in Washington, DC is $82,661.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,600.00 and $96,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a music library?

A music library is a collection of recorded music, sheet music, or related resources that is organized and maintained for easy access by musicians, researchers, or the general public. Music libraries can be found in academic institutions, broadcasting companies, and public spaces, serving as valuable resources for study, performance, and enjoyment. Music librarians manage these libraries, cataloging music, assisting users, and preserving rare or historical materials. Some music libraries also provide digital access to their collections, making music more accessible to a wider audience.

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

To thrive as a Music Librarian, you need expertise in musicology, library science (often with an MLIS degree), and cataloging standards for music collections. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital archives, and music-specific cataloging tools like MARC and RDA is typically required. Excellent organizational abilities, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help in managing collections and assisting patrons. These competencies ensure accurate music resource management, accessibility, and effective support for musicians, researchers, and the public.

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

Professionals in a music library often face challenges such as cataloging diverse formats (scores, recordings, digital files), staying current with rapidly changing music technology, and managing user requests from a wide variety of patrons (students, faculty, performers). Addressing these challenges often involves ongoing professional development, collaborating closely with IT departments, and implementing efficient digital cataloging systems. Additionally, strong interpersonal skills and adaptability help music librarians respond effectively to the evolving needs of their users.

What is the difference between Music Library vs Music Archivist?

AspectMusic LibraryMusic Archivist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in music, library science, or related fieldRequires a degree in music, library science, or archival studies
Work EnvironmentLibraries, media companies, educational institutionsMuseums, archives, cultural institutions
Industry UsageUsed for organizing and providing access to music collectionsFocused on preserving and cataloging historical music collections
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare for roles involving music organization and accessPeople compare for roles involving preservation and archival work

While both roles involve working with music collections, a Music Library primarily manages and provides access to music resources in libraries or media companies. A Music Archivist focuses on preserving and cataloging historical music collections in archives or museums. The roles overlap in credentials and work environment but differ in their primary focus—access versus preservation.

What are popular job titles related to Music Library jobs in Washington, DC? For Music Library jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Music Library jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Music Library jobs in Washington, DC are:
Music Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Music Library job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 71% In-person, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,661 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

Music Library Assistant (Student)

American University

Washington, DC • On-site

$18.40/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

American University rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 616 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Work Where You Learn: Build Experience, Grow Skills, and Contribute to Your University Community.
This position is available only to enrolled American University students.
Most student positions at American University are eligible to use Federal Work Study (FWS) awards, with a few exceptions. FWS funds cannot be applied to janitorial, construction, partisan or sectarian positions. For information or questions regarding FWS funds, please contact American University's Office of Financial Aid.
Important guidance for current American University employees: American University current employees, including those employed in student positions, must apply through their employee Workday account. If you are a current employee at American University, please log into your employee Workday account and select the Find Jobs report which will take you to our internal career listings. Applying outside of your employee Workday account may cause delays in a hire process.
Department:
Music Library
Time Type:
Part time
FLSA Status:
Non-Exempt
Job Description:
Summary:
The Music Library Student Assistant supports the operations of the Music Library at the borrowing desk. The student assistant organizes the Music Library's collections, answers phone and chat inquiries, and provides preliminary reference assistance to patrons at the borrowing desk. The incumbent will also assist with special projects designed to improve awareness of and access to the Library's collections.
Essential Functions:
  • Checking library materials in and out and shelving them appropriately.
  • Assisting patrons in the use of resources such as searching the Library's catalog and music-specific databases.
  • Troubleshooting computers, audio equipment, copier, and other AV equipment.
  • Providing patrons with the status of materials requested.
  • Complete other duties at the discretion of management.
  • Curating social media profiles.
  • Inventory.
  • Event production assistance.
  • Archival work.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:
  • Part-time.
  • 10 hours per week.
Salary Range:
  • $18.40 per hour.
Required Education and Experience:
  • High school diploma or its equivalent.
  • Enrolled American University student in Fall 2026.
  • Excellent customer service, organization, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Demonstrated interpersonal skills and the ability to work independently under minimal supervision.
  • Strong attention to detail and the ability to prioritize and multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
  • Some knowledge of various genres of music, experience with social media and good work ethic.
Preferred Education and Experience:
  • Familiarity with the Library of Congress call number system, and some experience troubleshooting Mac and PC computers.
  • Students in the Department of Performing Arts or with the ability to read music are desirable.
  • Availability on Mondays and/or Thursdays between 1-5:30 PM is preferred.
Additional Eligibility Qualifications:
  • It is highly recommended that a cover letter and resume be submitted as attachments to the online application.
Other Details
  • This position is available only to enrolled American University students.
  • Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
  • American University is an E-Verify employer.
  • Visit https://www.american.edu/hr/ for additional information about American University employment and benefits.

Current American University Employees
American University current employees (including those employed in student positions) must apply through their employee Workday account. If you are a current employee at American University, please log into Workday and select the Find Jobs report which will take you to our internal career listings.
Contact Us
For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, email theworkline@american.edu.
American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual's genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.

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