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Preservation Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Library of Congress

Reference Librarian

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$70K - $91K/yr

Assists in developing strategies for the organization, storage, preservation, and service of ... The Library is part of the Federal Government and abides by federal law, so regardless of ...

The State of Arizona

Law Librarian

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

Preserve our history Promote engagement; and Protect the future The office strives to achieve this mission by being trusted, accessible, innovative, and secure Law Librarian Job Location: Address ...

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Preservation Librarian information

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$31K

$65.2K

$102.5K

How much do preservation librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for preservation librarian in the United States is $65,193.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $75,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Preservation Librarian vs Archival Technician?

AspectPreservation LibrarianArchival Technician
CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science or related field, preservation certificationsAssociate's or Bachelor's degree, specialized training in archival processes
Work EnvironmentLibraries, archives, museums focusing on preservation and collection careArchives, record centers, museums handling archival materials
Employer & IndustryPublic, academic, special libraries, cultural institutionsArchives, historical societies, museums
Search & Comparison IntentPreservation Librarian vs Archival Technician

The Preservation Librarian typically holds advanced degrees and certifications, focusing on developing preservation strategies for library collections. In contrast, an Archival Technician usually has a more technical role, assisting with the organization and preservation of archival materials. Both roles work in similar environments but differ in responsibilities and required qualifications.

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

To thrive as a Preservation Librarian, you need expertise in library science, archival preservation, and conservation methods, typically supported by a master's degree in library science or a related field. Familiarity with preservation tools, digital imaging systems, environmental monitoring equipment, and relevant standards such as ISO 11799 is important. Strong attention to detail, project management skills, and the ability to collaborate across departments set exceptional professionals apart. These skills ensure the long-term protection and accessibility of valuable collections, supporting the mission and sustainability of libraries.

Who are the highest paid librarians?

The highest paid librarians are typically those in senior roles such as library directors or specialized positions like preservation librarians with extensive experience and advanced degrees. Salaries can vary based on the institution, location, and level of responsibility, with some earning over $80,000 annually. Certification and expertise in areas like digital preservation or archival management can also influence compensation.

What are Preservation Librarians?

Preservation Librarians are professionals specialized in maintaining, restoring, and protecting library collections to ensure their longevity. They manage preservation programs that include preventive care, conservation treatments, disaster planning, and environmental monitoring. Their responsibilities often involve working with books, manuscripts, digital media, and archival materials to minimize deterioration from factors like light, humidity, pests, and handling. Preservation Librarians collaborate with other library staff and may also educate others about best preservation practices. Their work is essential in safeguarding the cultural and informational resources housed in libraries for future generations.

Is AI replacing librarians?

AI is not replacing preservation librarians, but it is increasingly used as a tool to assist with tasks such as cataloging, digitization, and metadata management. Preservation librarians focus on maintaining and protecting collections, a role that requires specialized knowledge and human judgment that AI cannot fully replicate.

What are some common challenges faced by Preservation Librarians when managing both physical and digital collections?

Preservation Librarians often contend with balancing the needs of aging physical materials and rapidly evolving digital formats. Physical items may require specialized environmental controls and regular conservation treatments, while digital collections demand ongoing migration and monitoring to prevent data loss or obsolescence. Coordinating preservation strategies across formats, collaborating with IT staff and conservators, and staying current with best practices are essential aspects of the role. Adapting to new technologies and advocating for resources can also present challenges but offer significant opportunities for professional growth.

What jobs pay 400 an hour?

Preservation librarians typically do not earn $400 an hour; such high rates are more common in specialized consulting, legal, medical, or executive roles. Highly experienced professionals in niche fields or those with rare expertise may reach this level through consulting or freelance work, but it is uncommon for standard librarian positions. Most library roles offer salaries significantly below this threshold.

What type of librarian gets paid the most?

Among librarians, those specializing in law, medical, or corporate information often earn the highest salaries due to specialized knowledge and skills. Preservation librarians typically have lower salaries compared to these high-demand specialties, but salaries can vary based on experience, education, and employer type.
More about Preservation Librarian jobs
What cities are hiring for Preservation Librarian jobs? Cities with the most Preservation Librarian job openings:
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Who are the top companies hiring for Preservation Librarian jobs? The top employers for Preservation Librarian jobs are:
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Preservation Librarian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Preservation Librarian job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,193 per year, or $31.3 per hour.
DELTA Student Assistant - Division II (Social Sciences)

DELTA Student Assistant - Division II (Social Sciences)

Union College

Schenectady, NY • On-site

$16/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Position Summary:
Schaffer Library's DELTA program (design-based, experiential learning with a team approach) seeks Union College students to work on its second summer project.
Scenario: Schaffer Library has just hired you as a contractor to develop a low-cost, educational digital escape room for library information literacy instruction. The library offers an in-person information literacy escape room for students, but we are hoping a virtual one will supplement this instruction and reach more students. The DELTA project team, composed of students from each academic division, will work together to help assess what is next for information literacy instruction. The team will determine the best use of technology for instruction, based on researching what their clients (library staff) need, and the best ways to communicate to product users (campus community).

Department: Schaffer Library
Location: Schaffer Library

Supervisor: Corinne Chatnik

Hours/Shifts Available: 35 hours a week

Rate of Pay: $16/hr

Number of Positions available: 1

Purpose/role of the position within Schaffer Library:

Reporting to the Digital Collections and Preservation Librarian and the Reference and Instruction Librarian, the Student Assistant will receive training in:

  • Project management techniques

  • Cross-disciplinary collaboration

  • Challenges and solutions for gamifying instruction

  • Library responsibilities and resources


Duties and responsibilities:

Work is coordinated by the Content & Digital Library Services division of Schaffer Library, and the Research & Engagement division is your client. This client needs you to:

  • Collaborate with technologists and researchers to develop a prototype for the library to use in the classroom or remotely

  • Bring stakeholders, designers, product owners and engineers together to build, maintain, and evolve a robust information literacy game for students.

  • Design the aesthetic elements of user interfaces and design systems.

  • Write for the web, ranging from crafting effective labels to creating user instructions to developing long-form descriptions of services, collections, and guidance based on stakeholder requirements.

  • Use technical writing skills to document your project's output and usage through creation of a Quick Start guide or small manual.

Preferred qualifications (Division II emphasis):

  • Ability to work in a team environment.

  • Demonstrated research skills.

  • Experience with Excel or other spreadsheet software, particularly for budgeting or planning.

  • Experience with UI/UX (User Interface/User Experience) design.

  • Written and verbal communication skills.

Location: Schenectady, NY

E-Verify Participation:Union College participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. Learn more about E-Verify and your Right to Work (Derecho a Trabajar).

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