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Rare Book Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Groundwork Coffee

Barista (Part Time)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$18/hr

From our humble roots as a rare book store and cafe back in 1990, Groundwork would go on to become one of the first certified organic coffee roasters in Southern California, as well as the largest ...

Groundwork Coffee

Barista PT (Larchmont)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$18/hr

From our humble roots as a rare book store and cafe back in 1990, Groundwork would go on to become one of the first certified organic coffee roasters in Southern California, as well as the largest ...

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How much do rare book jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for rare book in the United States is $24.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rare book specialist?

Rare book specialists are professionals who identify, appraise, and manage valuable or historically significant books. They often work in libraries, museums, auction houses, or rare book dealerships, ensuring the proper care, preservation, and authentication of rare printed materials. Their expertise allows them to determine the provenance, condition, and market value of rare books, and they may also assist collectors or institutions in acquiring or selling such items.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working with rare books in libraries or archives?

Professionals handling rare books often face challenges related to preservation, security, and access. Ensuring that fragile materials are protected from environmental damage and improper handling is a key responsibility, which may require implementing strict climate controls and specialized storage solutions. Additionally, balancing public access with the need to protect rare items can be difficult, often necessitating detailed user guidelines and supervised reading rooms. Collaborating closely with conservation experts, catalogers, and researchers is also a critical part of the role.

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

To thrive as a Rare Book Librarian, you need expertise in library science, archival practices, and the history of books, usually supported by a master's degree in library science or a related field. Familiarity with cataloging systems like MARC, digital preservation tools, and rare book conservation techniques is essential. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing collections and engaging with researchers. These skills ensure the proper preservation, accessibility, and scholarly value of rare and valuable book collections.

What is the difference between Rare Book vs Book Conservator?

AspectRare BookBook Conservator
CredentialsSpecialized knowledge in rare and antique books, often with history or library science backgroundTraining in conservation techniques, often with a focus on paper, bindings, and preservation
Work EnvironmentLibraries, archives, rare book collections, auction housesMuseums, libraries, conservation labs
Industry UsageFocuses on acquiring, cataloging, and maintaining rare booksFocuses on repairing, preserving, and restoring books

While both roles involve working with books, a Rare Book specialist concentrates on acquiring and managing rare and valuable books, often requiring expertise in history and provenance. A Book Conservator, on the other hand, specializes in restoring and preserving books to ensure their longevity. Both careers are essential in the preservation of literary heritage but differ in their primary focus and skill set.

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What states have the most Rare Book jobs?

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Rare Book jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rare Book job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,573 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Student Archival Assistant, Small Special Collections Library - Federal Work-Study Position (Stud...

The University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$16.71/hr

Part-time

Posted 8 days ago

University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

209th of 620 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Federal Work Study required: Work-Study (FWSA) eligibility during Fall/Spring semesters is required. Work-Study employment is effective August 25, 2026 - May 14, 2027.

Working hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday. For more information about the Albert & Shirley Small Special Collections Library, please visit http://small.library.virginia.edu/

Main duties:

  • Organize and re-house collections and enter the information into the ArchivesSpace database, or any other platform the student is trained to use.
  • Transfer digital files with archival tools at a basic level.
  • May also participate in packing/unpacking of collections, creating collection inventories, labeling folders, photo-documenting digital media, and making photocopies.
  • Material retrieval: The student assistant will be trained in how to properly retrieve manuscript, university archive, and rare book materials for patron requests.
  • Additional duties may include shifting boxes and special projects.

This is a part-time position (up to 10 hours a week) paying $16.71 per hour, and is available to undergraduate and graduate Federal Work Study students beginning August 25, 2026 with the position ending May 14, 2027.

This position requires a minimum commitment of 7 hours per week, and the ability to adhere to a strict schedule. The temperature in the work area is maintained at below 65 degrees Fahrenheit to better preserve the collections, so employees should dress accordingly.

Passing of a background check is required for this position.

Please include a resume with your application. A cover letter is strongly encouraged.


Qualifications:

Strong sense of self-motivation, and strong analytical skills. Critical and open-minded thinking. Interest in history, photographs, digital records, and personal papers. Experience using the Microsoft Office suite. Critical Ability to lift 40-pound boxes occasionally.

Data entry and/or experience working with databases. Ability to handle rare and special materials with care. Excellent organizational skills, good communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to complete tasks with a high level of accuracy. Ability to multi-task and finish tasks in a timely manner, and ability to work independently as well as closely with others.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience working in a special collections library or archive, or any library work experience. Experience with reading 18th, 19th, and or 20th century hand-written documents including cursive; familiarity with archival principles and practices. Familiarity with the Library of Congress Classification system. Familiarity with U.S. and Virginia history, or American literature. Clear and legible handwriting. Foreign language skills a plus.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.

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About University of Virginia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819

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