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Rare Books Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Opportunities for free books PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES * Sort through the incoming stock to identify quality pre-ISBN and rare vintage books * Use our proprietary software to create accurate ...

... rare books and special collections according to established library standards. * Collaborate with multiple internal and external groups to evaluate and develop structured project plans, ensuring ...

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Rare Books information

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$10

$26

$47

How much do rare books jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for rare books in the United States is $26.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Rare Books position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Rare Books, you need expertise in book history, bibliographic description, conservation, and collection management, often supported by a degree in library science or a related field. Familiarity with cataloging systems like MARC, conservation tools, and databases such as OCLC is also essential. Attention to detail, strong research skills, and the ability to communicate well with colleagues and patrons are valuable soft skills. These abilities help ensure the proper identification, preservation, and accessibility of rare materials, contributing to effective stewardship and scholarly engagement.

What are the typical responsibilities of someone working in a Rare Books position?

A professional in Rare Books is typically responsible for cataloging and describing rare materials, assessing and maintaining their condition, and facilitating access for researchers and the public. Day-to-day, you might collaborate with archivists, conservators, and curators to create exhibits, manage special collections, or provide reference services. Handling delicate or valuable items requires careful handling and adherence to preservation best practices. You may also be involved in developing collection policies or supporting outreach and educational programs. This role offers the unique opportunity to work closely with significant historical artifacts while supporting research and engagement in a library or cultural heritage setting.

What is a Rare Books job?

A Rare Books job typically involves working with antique, valuable, or historically significant books in a library, archive, or bookstore setting. Professionals in this field may appraise, catalog, conserve, or sell rare books, ensuring their preservation and accessibility. Jobs can range from rare book librarians and archivists to dealers and conservators. Strong knowledge of book history, preservation techniques, and provenance research is often required.

More about Rare Books jobs
What cities are hiring for Rare Books jobs? Cities with the most Rare Books job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Rare Books jobs? The most popular types of Rare Books jobs are:
What states have the most Rare Books jobs? States with the most job openings for Rare Books jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Rare Books jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Rare Books jobs are:
Infographic showing various Rare Books job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,367 per year, or $26.6 per hour.
Collectible Receiver PHX

Collectible Receiver PHX

ThriftBooks

Tolleson, AZ

$19.76 - $24.04/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


ThriftBooks rating

4.6

Company rating: 4.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 11 rated book shops


Job description

ThriftBooks is the world's largest used book retailer! We believe in a workplace where respect for our employees matters, where promoting from within is how we grow, and where safety comes first in all our decisions and planning. At ThriftBooks, your work will help get inexpensive books into the hands of people who need them instead of going into landfill. We strive to create a friendly work environment with high standards of performance and rewards for excellence. We started out small and remember that encouraging people to do their best is how we expanded to our current scale.

If you want to learn about the intersection of technology, innovation, and good old-fashioned teamwork, we might be a good fit for you. Wherever you start in the company, our hope is that is a launching point to higher achievement. At ThriftBooks, your success is up to you.

Our team is growing, and we're looking for a Collectible Receiver to join our Vintage Team. This is a full-time position (M-F) with a competitive wage based on experience, plus a benefits package including paid time off and a health care package. If books are your thing and you're looking for steady work in a stimulating environment with room to grow, then we want to talk to you. This position is based in our Phoenix  Processing Center and will involve working on the warehouse floor as well as in front of a computer in a casual office setting.

We will provide training to the right candidate, and experienced candidates will have the opportunity to expand their knowledge through advanced training and first-hand exposure to an ever-changing stream of used and rare books.

YOU’LL LOVE WORKING AT THRIFTBOOKS BECAUSE

  • Starting wage ranges from $19.76 to $24.04 an hour based on experience
  • Friendly work environment with fun monthly events
  • Paid holidays for eligible positions
  • Affordable health, dental, and vision benefits
  • 401K savings plan with company match
  • Paid time off for full-time employees
  • Being recognized for your hard work
  • Safety is a priority to us
  • Employee assistance program
  • Opportunities for free books

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Sort through the incoming stock to identify quality pre-ISBN and rare vintage books
  • Use our proprietary software to create accurate, compelling listings for sale through multiple online platforms
  • Light packaging and shipping duties for Collectible items that require an extra level of care and handling.

All candidates must be willing to authorize a background check. All applicants agree to ThriftBooks' Privacy Notice for Employment-Related Personal Data: https://www.thriftbooks.com/s/employment-privacy-notice/

WE’RE LOOKING FOR TEAM MEMBERS WHO

  • Are highly reliable and responsible. You have excellent attendance and consistently meet goals and metrics.
  • Bring a positive and respectful attitude every day, while working independently and as a part of a team.
  • Want to be coached and given feedback to become their best self.
  • Want to develop their career! Many of our leaders started out in entry level positions.

OTHER REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

  • Familiarity with the used and rare book market is required and experience identifying, grading, and pricing desirable books is helpful. 1 year minimum.
  • Book store, and library, experience is a plus.
  • Must be able to work independently to achieve production goals.
  • Must be able to lift up to 40lbs
  • Requires some reaching, bending, lifting, twisting, and walking.
  • Candidates with military and/or veteran status are encouraged to apply.