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Rare Books Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ohio University

Book and Paper Conservator

Athens, OH · On-site

$21.44 - $35.68/hr

Mahn Center for Archives and Special Collections is the principal repository for rare books, manuscript collections, the Documentary Photography Archive, and the Ohio University Archives. The ...

Cincinnati Art Museum

Head Librarian - FT

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Experience working with archives, rare books, or special collections a plus. * Demonstrated success in leadership, staff management, and strategic planning * Knowledge of art history resources ...

Reed College

Digital Archives Specialist

Portland, OR · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

Collections include archival records and other materials comprising the historical and cultural record of Reed College, including theses, rare books, artists' books, early writing and printing, maps ...

CalPolyPomona

Lecturer AY - Library

Pomona, CA

Implementing strategies for acquiring, accessioning, organizing, and cataloging unique materials like rare books, manuscripts, photographs, and archives. * Implementing strategies for the ...

Howard

Special Collections Librarian

Chevy Chase, DC · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Manages and processes rare books and other printed materials, archival materials in all formats for the law library archives and special collections department. * Develops processing plans for new ...

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How much do rare books jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 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.

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Rare Books jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rare Books job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,367 per year, or $26.6 per hour.
FWS Position - Special Collections Library Stacks/Public Services Assistant (Student Wage)

FWS Position - Special Collections Library Stacks/Public Services Assistant (Student Wage)

The University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$16.71/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

University Of Virginia rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

197th of 544 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Student assistant for stacks and reference desk.

Perform specialized office support functions or services that require some training, skill, or experience. Duties include providing customer service and specific information, data entry and use of standard office software programs & systems, work within established guidelines and policies. Limited supervision is provided; ability to perform a wide range of duties.

Thestacks/public services assistant performs a variety of tasks in support of a robust Special Collections reference desk. These duties include retrieval of material from the closed stacks, re-shelvingbooksand other library material, scanning of documents, basic research tasks, and working in the closed stacks to reshelve, organize,shelfand shift materials.

Main duties:

  • Retrieving books, manuscripts,archivesand other materials from closed stacks for researchers in the reading room or for class use.
  • Creating a home for and shelvingnew books.
  • Workingwith serials.
  • Re-shelving books, manuscripts, and archives and other library materials according to Special Collections stacks manager's protocols tomaintainhigh accuracy.
  • Scanning rare books, primary sourcedocumentsand other collection material to fulfill researcher needs.
  • Assistingwith interlibrary Loan requests.
  • Conducting basic research tasks using the library catalog (Virgo), Workflows (back end of Virgo),ArchiveSpaceandvarious typesof finding aids.

REQUIRED:

  • Must be able to handle carefully and with respect, a wide variety of unique,historicaland fragile books and manuscripts.
  • Must be able to work in a restrictive, high-security environment, be veryresponsibleand adhere to all required procedures.
  • Must be respectful of the collection andpossessa high levelof independence and analytical skills to complete many assigned tasks.
  • Must have a sharp focus and keen attention to detail.
  • Current UVA student.

Other library projects as neededand as student interest dictates.

Work is a total of10hours a week, including rotating Saturday shifts from noon until 4 p.m. and some evening hours 5-7 on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Federal Work-Study students are preferred.

Compensation: $16.71/hr.

Pleasesubmityour resume and cover letter to apply.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

  • Resume and basic one page cover letter.
  • Availability for rotating Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m.
  • Criminal background check isrequired(SPAKA).

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Ability to lift 40 pounds.Movement between floors of the library to retrieve materials can be physically demanding at times.Must be able to tolerate the building temperature which is kept in the mid-60.

Experience: None

PREFERRED:

Library experience or interest in library and archival work.

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

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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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