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Salary

How much does a Librarian make?

The average salary for a Librarian is $63,016 per year in the US.

Librarians play a key role in managing and sharing knowledge in our communities. Their work includes organizing books, helping patrons find information, and providing valuable resources for learning. People considering a career in librarianship often wonder about potential earnings. The average yearly salary for librarians is $63,016. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and specific responsibilities.


Librarians can earn salaries across a wide range of values. The lowest-paid librarians, often those just starting out, can earn around $32,060 each year. Those with more experience or specialized skills may earn significantly more. The top earners in the field can make up to $116,114 annually. This variety shows that there are opportunities for growth and advancement in the field. As librarians gain experience and take on additional responsibilities, their earning potential can increase.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Librarian?

Job seekers seeking high-paying librarian roles can find excellent opportunities in Honolulu, HI, with an average salary of $150,526. College Station, TX, offers a competitive average of $112,735. Librarians in Washington, DC, can expect to earn around $92,030 annually. Other cities with attractive salaries include San Francisco, CA, with $88,047; Stockton, CA, at $84,773; and Seattle, WA, at $84,361. Los Angeles, CA, New Haven, CT, Portland, OR, and San Diego, CA, also provide competitive pay for librarians.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Librarian jobs, highlighting Honolulu, HI with the highest at $150,526 and San Diego, CA with the lowest at $78,069.
  1. Honolulu, HI
    Average Salary: $150,526
    In Honolulu, working with libraries offers a serene yet vibrant environment. The University of Hawaii system and local government provide ample opportunities. One can enjoy the cultural richness of Hawaii while contributing to the community.
    Find Librarian jobs in Honolulu, HI


  2. College Station, TX
    Average Salary: $112,735
    College Station is known for its academic environment, making it ideal for library professionals. The Texas A&M University libraries present many chances to engage with students and faculty. The job market here is strong, with various roles available.
    Find Librarian jobs in College Station, TX


  3. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $92,030
    Libraries in Washington, DC, offer a unique blend of history and modern technology. Many institutions, such as the Library of Congress, provide diverse experiences. Working here can connect professionals with significant cultural and political archives.
    Find Librarian jobs in Washington, DC


  4. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $88,047
    San Francisco's libraries offer a dynamic work setting. The city's commitment to education and technology creates a forward-thinking environment. Working here means engaging with a tech-savvy and culturally diverse community.
    Find Librarian jobs in San Francisco, CA


  5. Stockton, CA
    Average Salary: $84,773
    Stockton's libraries provide a close-knit community feel. The city's focus on education ensures that library professionals can make a meaningful impact. Opportunities to collaborate with local schools and organizations are plentiful.
    Find Librarian jobs in Stockton, CA


  6. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $84,361
    Seattle's libraries are known for their innovative approaches. The city's tech industry and vibrant arts scene create a unique work environment. Libraries here often partner with tech companies, offering diverse and exciting roles.
    Find Librarian jobs in Seattle, WA


  7. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $82,301
    Los Angeles offers a diverse and bustling environment for library professionals. The city's large and diverse population means libraries play a crucial role in the community. Working here provides opportunities to engage with various cultural groups.
    Find Librarian jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  8. New Haven, CT
    Average Salary: $79,400
    New Haven's libraries are steeped in history and academic excellence. Yale University and other local institutions create a rich environment for learning and growth. Professionals here often work with prestigious collections and archives.
    Find Librarian jobs in New Haven, CT


  9. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $79,077
    Portland's libraries provide a creative and community-focused environment. The city's passion for books and the arts ensures a vibrant workplace. Working here means being part of a community that values knowledge and sustainability.
    Find Librarian jobs in Portland, OR


  10. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $78,069
    San Diego's libraries offer a mix of coastal charm and educational opportunities. The city's focus on innovation and technology creates a dynamic work environment. Professionals here can enjoy beautiful surroundings while contributing to the community.
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What are the best companies a Librarian can work for?

Librarians who seek top-tier salaries will find notable opportunities within prestigious institutions. The University of Hawaii system offers an average salary of $130,920, making it a leading employer in the field. Other high-paying employers include the Library of Congress and Montgomery County Public Schools, MD, where librarians can earn around $125,436 and $92,770 respectively.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Librarian jobs, highlighting University of Hawaii System with the highest at $130,920 and The New York Public Library with the lowest at $70,063.
  1. University of Hawaii System
    Average Salary: $130,920
    The University of Hawaii System offers excellent opportunities for librarians. They manage academic libraries across several campuses. Locations include Honolulu, Hilo, and Manoa.


  2. Library Of Congress
    Average Salary: $125,436
    At the Library Of Congress, librarians have access to vast resources. They work in Washington, D.C., and play a key role in preserving history.


  3. Montgomery County Public Schools, MD
    Average Salary: $92,770
    Montgomery County Public Schools provide librarians with dynamic roles. They work in schools across the county, helping students and teachers alike.


  4. Prince William County Government
    Average Salary: $91,574
    Prince William County Government offers librarians great benefits. They work in various libraries throughout the county, supporting the community.


  5. Newark Board of Education
    Average Salary: $89,871
    Newark Board of Education libraries need dedicated librarians. They work in schools across Newark, helping students find information.


  6. Hofstra University
    Average Salary: $89,438
    Hofstra University librarians have access to rich resources. They work on the Hempstead campus, supporting students and faculty.


  7. Fayette County Public Schools
    Average Salary: $75,297
    Fayette County Public Schools librarians have a key role. They work in schools across the county, assisting students in their learning.


  8. Indiana University
    Average Salary: $72,577
    At Indiana University, librarians manage large collections. They work on various campuses, supporting students and researchers.


  9. Loudoun County Public Schools
    Average Salary: $71,438
    Loudoun County Public Schools librarians help students thrive. They work in schools across the county, offering valuable resources.


  10. The New York Public Library
    Average Salary: $70,063
    The New York Public Library offers dynamic librarian roles. They work in libraries across New York City, supporting readers of all ages.

How to earn more as a Librarian?

Becoming a librarian is a rewarding career choice that offers many benefits. It provides job stability and the opportunity to work with a variety of people. Librarians play a crucial role in the community, helping others find information and resources. If you seek to earn more in this field, consider these key factors:

Librarians can increase their earning potential through various avenues. These include gaining advanced degrees, acquiring specialized skills, and seeking out leadership roles. Each of these can help open up higher-paying opportunities within the profession. Here are five factors to consider:

  • Advanced Degrees: Earning a Master's in Library Science (MLS) can lead to higher salary brackets. This degree opens up more job opportunities and can make a librarian more competitive in the job market.
  • Specialized Skills: Learning new skills, such as digital archiving or information technology, can set a librarian apart. These additional skills can lead to higher-paying positions within libraries or other organizations.
  • Leadership Roles: Taking on leadership positions, such as department head or library director, often results in higher pay. These roles come with more responsibility and can provide a significant boost to earnings.
  • Experience: Gaining experience in different types of libraries, such as academic, public, or special libraries, can lead to better-paying jobs. Each type of library offers unique challenges and can provide valuable experience.
  • Networking: Building a strong professional network can lead to higher-paying job opportunities. Attending conferences, joining professional organizations, and connecting with others in the field can open doors to better-paid positions.

Currently 498 Librarian job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Librarian in the US?

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Librarian
498 Job Openings