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State Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Manage the library's government documents collection, including federal, state, and local publications. * Provide expert reference and research assistance related to government publications. * Stay ...

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State Librarian information

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$31K

$65.2K

$102.5K

How much do state librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for state 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 are State Librarians?

State Librarians are professionals who oversee the administration and management of a state's library system, including public libraries, archives, and library services. They are responsible for setting statewide library policies, managing funding and grants, advocating for library-related legislation, and supporting library development and innovation. State Librarians also serve as liaisons between the state government and local libraries, ensuring that library services meet the needs of all residents. Their work is crucial in promoting literacy, lifelong learning, and equal access to information.

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

To thrive as a State Librarian, you need advanced knowledge of library science, management experience, and typically a Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS). Familiarity with library management systems, digital archives, and relevant state and federal regulations is essential, along with professional certifications such as ALA-accredited credentials. Exceptional leadership, strategic planning, and advocacy skills set outstanding State Librarians apart. These skills ensure the effective administration of statewide library services, resource allocation, and advancement of public access to information.

What is the difference between State Librarian vs Public Library Director?

AspectState LibrarianPublic Library Director
CredentialsMaster's in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent, relevant experienceMLS or equivalent, experience in library management
Work EnvironmentState government, statewide library systemsLocal public libraries, community-focused
Employer & IndustryState agencies, library associationsMunicipal or regional government, community services
Common Search/ComparisonPolicy, statewide library programsPublic services, community engagement

The State Librarian oversees statewide library initiatives, policies, and services, working with state agencies. In contrast, a Public Library Director manages individual library branches or systems, focusing on local community needs. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in scope and work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by a State Librarian in managing statewide library services?

State Librarians often encounter challenges such as balancing limited budgets while ensuring equitable access to resources across diverse communities. They must also stay current with rapidly evolving technology and digital content to support both urban and rural libraries. Additionally, coordinating statewide initiatives requires strong collaboration with local libraries, government agencies, and educational institutions. Effective communication and strategic planning are key to overcoming these hurdles and meeting the needs of all library users.
More about State Librarian jobs
What cities are hiring for State Librarian jobs? Cities with the most State Librarian job openings:
What states have the most State Librarian jobs? States with the most job openings for State Librarian jobs include:
Infographic showing various State Librarian job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,193 per year, or $31.3 per hour.
Librarian I/II, Legal Research Librarian

Librarian I/II, Legal Research Librarian

Wayne State University

Detroit, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Wayne State University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

242nd of 539 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Librarian I/II, Legal Research Librarian
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Librarian I/II, Legal Research Librarian at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
Position Purpose:
The Arthur Neef Law Library welcomes qualified applicants to apply for our Legal Research Librarian positions. Join an experienced, highly skilled library staff that serves the Wayne State University Law School and the local community. The Neef Law Library is in Detroit's Midtown neighborhood, on Wayne State's main campus. These are both full-time positions reporting to the Law Library director. The Neef Law Library is part of the Wayne State University Library System.
Essential Functions:
Reference:
Serves as members of the Law Library's reference team, providing skillful in-person services at the Reference Desk and remotely via phone, email, and online question intake systems.
Creates and updates online research guides to support Wayne Law's curriculum and instruct on researching special topics within the law.
Faculty Research Support:
Provides significant, in-depth research support to Law School faculty, departments, and administrators as liaison librarians.
Provides in-person and remote research consultations and project planning with faculty and student research assistants.
Assists faculty with requests for articles, books, and electronic resources to support their scholarship, classroom preparation, and professional development.
Instruction:
Creates and delivers online and in-person instruction sessions and guest lectures on a variety of legal research topics.
Collaborates on special library instruction projects with librarians and faculty members.
Professional and Collection Development:
With other Law Librarians, Identifies, assesses, selects, and recommends purchases and withdrawal of materials in Law and Legal Research subject areas of the WSU Library System.
Contributes to teams and committees by planning, evaluating, assessing, marketing, and implementing legal research services, resources, and technologies.
Participates in library and university committees to carry out professional development, scholarly, and service activities.
Other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
M.L.I.S. (or equivalent) degree from an ALA-accredited program.
Degrees must be completed prior to the candidates' starting date of employment.
Demonstrated commitment to providing high-quality reference and research service to patrons.
Significant experience performing legal research in an academic, government, or law firm setting.
Knowledge of legal bibliography, legal research methods, and the legal information profession.
Ability to work creatively, collaboratively, and effectively to promote teamwork, equality at Wayne State University.
Excellent interpersonal and oral / written communication skills.
Excellent organizational, time, and project management skills, including the ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a diverse, dynamic environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
J.D. degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
School/College/Division:
H01 - University Libraries
Primary Department:
H0109 - Neef Law Library
Employment type:
  • Regular Employee
  • Job type: Full Time
  • Job category: Academic/Faculty
Funding/salary information:
  • Compensation type: Annual Salary
  • Annual Salary: To be Determined
Working Conditions:
Normal office environment.
Job openings:
  • Number of openings: 1
  • Reposted position: No
Background check requirements:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.

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