Research & Academia

Librarian

SOC 25-4022.00 · ESCO 2622 · OSCA 232131

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Role snapshot

Overview

Curates collections of books, databases, and digital resources and helps patrons find information for research, education, or personal interest. Organises programmes, manages cataloguing systems, and preserves archival materials. Librarians also provide research assistance, teach information literacy skills, and adapt to evolving technologies to ensure access to diverse information sources.

Empowers individuals and communities by providing access to information, fostering literacy, and preserving cultural heritage. Facilitates learning, research, and personal growth for patrons of all ages.

On the job

  • Assist patrons with research and information retrieval.
  • Develop and manage library collections, including acquisition and cataloguing.
  • Organise and promote educational programmes and community events.
  • Maintain and update digital resources and online databases.
  • Preserve and digitise archival materials and special collections.
Librarian at work

Tools & technology

Library Management Systems (e.g., Alma, Koha)Digital Archiving Software (e.g., Omeka, DSpace)Database Search Engines (e.g., EBSCOhost, ProQuest)Microsoft Office SuitePresentation Software

Average salary

$65K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$50K Bottom 10%
$85K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

A Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or a related field is typically required, often preceded by a Bachelor's degree in any discipline.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Senior Librarian
Library Director

CURRENT ROLE

Librarian

Research & Academia

ADJACENT MOVES

Archivist
Information Manager
Library Assistant
Library Technician
Archives Assistant

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

C

conventional · CSI

Individuals who enjoy organising information, helping others, and engaging in research and intellectual pursuits often find fulfillment in this role.

Personality characteristics

Curious

Enjoys exploring diverse subjects and continuously learning new information resources and technologies.

Organised

Maintains meticulous systems for cataloguing, classification, and efficient collection management.

Helpful

Patiently assists patrons with their information needs and provides supportive guidance.

Calm

Remains composed and effective when handling multiple patron requests or managing library issues.

Reserved

Prefers structured environments and focused work, though comfortable with public interaction and instruction.

Best for

  • Individuals passionate about knowledge sharing and community service.
  • People who value order, intellectual engagement, and helping others find answers.

Watch out for

  • Requires constant adaptation to new technologies and evolving information formats.
  • Can involve dealing with challenging patron interactions or maintaining order in public spaces.

A week in the life

A representative working week for a Librarian — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Team Huddle
Collection Development & Ordering
Cataloguing & Processing New Materials
Tue
Digital Resource Management
Library Program Planning
Administrative Tasks
Wed
Email & Correspondence
Archival Preservation Project
Information Literacy Workshop Prep
Thu
Community Outreach Planning
Staff Training Session
Database Updates & Maintenance
Fri
Special Collections Research
Children's Story Time
Budget Review & Reporting
Week-end Wrap-up & Planning
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

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