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Special Collections Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Howard

Special Collections Librarian

Chevy Chase, DC · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

The Special Collections Librarian reports to the Head of Collection Services and Special Collections. The Special Collections Librarian is responsible for overseeing the School of Law Library ...

Harvard University

Collections Librarian

Cambridge, MA · On-site

Collaborates with the Special Collections Librarian & Archivist and Special Collections Team on purchasing workflows and policies, managing in-kind gifts (including those from faculty retirements ...

Harvard University

Collections Librarian

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$57/hr

Collaborates with the Special Collections Librarian & Archivist and Special Collections Team on purchasing workflows and policies, managing in-kind gifts (including those from faculty retirements ...

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How much do special collections librarian jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for special collections librarian in the United States is $22.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a special collections librarian?

To thrive as a Special Collections Librarian, you need expertise in archival practices, rare book handling, preservation techniques, and typically a master’s degree in library science or a related field. Familiarity with cataloging systems (such as MARC or EAD), digital asset management tools, and conservation technologies is important. Attention to detail, strong research abilities, and effective communication skills help you engage users and protect valuable collections. These skills ensure the proper stewardship, accessibility, and long-term preservation of rare and unique materials.

What challenges do special collections librarians face, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Special Collections Librarians often encounter challenges related to the preservation and handling of rare or fragile materials, as well as managing access for researchers while ensuring the security of the collection. Applicants should be prepared to balance public service with conservation best practices, often collaborating with archivists, conservators, and researchers. Familiarity with digital cataloging systems and digitization initiatives is also important, as many institutions are expanding online access to special collections. Proactive communication skills and a commitment to ongoing professional development can help address these challenges effectively.

What is a special collections librarian?

Special Collections Librarians are professionals who manage, preserve, and provide access to rare and unique materials within a library, such as manuscripts, archives, rare books, photographs, and other historical documents. They are responsible for organizing collections, assisting researchers, developing exhibitions, and ensuring the long-term preservation of valuable items. These librarians often work closely with faculty, students, and the public to support research and educational initiatives related to special collections.
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Infographic showing various Special Collections Librarian job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,056 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Special Collections Librarian

Howard

Chevy Chase, DC • On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff "for fit" makes significant contributions to Howard University's overall mission.

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here is what we offer:

  • Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
  • Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
  • Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
  • Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
  • Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us!

https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness

JOB PURPOSE:

The Special Collections Librarian reports to the Head of Collection Services and Special Collections. The Special Collections Librarian is responsible for overseeing the School of Law Library archives and special collections. Responsible for arranging and describing the archival and special collections according to best practices. Performing reference, building relationships with alumni, community organizations and engaging in activities that promote the special collections and archives that demonstrates and showcases the history and role of the School of Law and African-American attorneys in the history of the United States.

SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY:

Responsible for directing library specialists and student library research assistants. Reports to the Director of the Law Library, Alicia Jones.

NATURE AND SCOPE:

Internal contacts include administrators, faculty, students and staff of the School of Law and the university at large. External contacts include vendors, representatives from other colleges and universities, visitors and the general public

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

  • 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 materials and backlog.
  • Creates digital collections and finding aids in the University's and School of Law's institutional repository.
  • Engages in education planning and instruction for first year legal research and advanced legal research courses.
  • Creates and develops library displays to showcase special collections programs and special events.
  • Other duties as assigned.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

  • Assess the condition of materials and initiate repairs and/or digitization where needed
  • Assess potential donations to the collection and recommend whether to accept
  • Prepare documents needed to transfer or add collection materials and update collection administrative files to reflect changes/additions.
  • Accession of new materials into the collection and update finding aids to reflect additions
  • Monitor and report on collection usage.
  • Prepare for and participate in tours and outreach; create displays of representative items from the collection and associated talking points.
  • Prepare physical materials for digitization; coordinate in-house and external digitization production; and collaborate with digital archivists to preserve and present the digitized content.
  • Ability to lift and move books and manuscript boxes, climb ladders to retrieve materials, and push book trucks.
  • Ability to respond to research and reference questions

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

  • Master's degree from ALA-accredited library and information science program (or equivalent)
  • Work effectively with a diverse, accomplished community of students, faculty, and staff
  • Commitment to advancing the missions of the law school and library
  • Model positive, solutions-driven responses to challenges; creative problem-solver
  • Excellent communication skills; emotionally intelligent
  • Project management skills (e.g., ability to prioritize, manage deadlines and expectations, make appropriate adjustments, communicate proactively)
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
  • Strong service orientation

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

Compensation Range - $75,000 - $80,000

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