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Salary

How much does a Librarian make?

The average salary for a Librarian is $62,771 per year in the US.

Librarians play a crucial role in helping people find the information they need. They work in schools, colleges, public libraries, and other places. According to recent data, the average yearly salary for a librarian is about $62,771. This average covers many different types of librarians, including those in schools and public libraries.

Salary levels can vary based on several factors. For instance, the type of library where a librarian works can affect their pay. Other factors include the librarian’s experience, location, and specific skills. Some of the highest-paying jobs are often in academic or research libraries, while those in public libraries tend to pay less. As experience grows, so does the salary, with more experienced librarians often earning higher wages.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Librarian?

Librarians in Honolulu, HI, often enjoy some of the highest salaries in the profession. With an average annual salary of $135,795, this city provides a lucrative opportunity for those in the field. Similarly, librarians in College Station, TX, can expect to earn around $117,840 per year, another excellent option for those seeking a rewarding position. Additionally, Washington, DC, offers competitive salaries for librarians, with an average of $91,096 annually. Job seekers looking for a balance of job opportunities and high pay may find these cities particularly attractive.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Librarian jobs, highlighting Honolulu, HI with the highest at $135,795 and San Diego, CA with the lowest at $76,208.
  1. Honolulu, HI
    Average Salary: $135,795
    Working as a librarian in Honolulu offers a unique blend of cultural resources and community engagement. Professionals in this field often collaborate with local universities and cultural institutions, providing access to diverse collections and programs. The city's vibrant atmosphere creates an enriching environment for both staff and patrons.
    Find Librarian jobs in Honolulu, HI


  2. College Station, TX
    Average Salary: $117,840
    In College Station, a librarian plays a key role in supporting academic research and student success. With access to resources at Texas A&M University, librarians can engage with students and faculty, helping to foster a love for learning. The collaborative environment enhances professional growth and community involvement.
    Find Librarian jobs in College Station, TX


  3. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $91,096
    Serving as a librarian in Washington, DC, means being at the heart of national history and culture. Professionals work with extensive archives and rare collections, providing essential research support. The city's political and cultural institutions offer unique opportunities for collaboration and professional development.
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  4. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $85,587
    Seattle offers a dynamic and tech-savvy environment for librarians. The city's libraries are known for their innovative programs and digital resources. Librarians here engage with a diverse community, offering support for tech education and creative initiatives. The progressive atmosphere enhances the quality of services provided.
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  5. Stockton, CA
    Average Salary: $84,997
    Stockton provides a community-focused setting for librarians to make a significant impact. Professionals here develop programs that support lifelong learning and literacy. The close-knit community fosters strong relationships between librarians and patrons, enhancing the library's role in the local culture.
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  6. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $83,441
    In Los Angeles, librarians have the opportunity to work in diverse and vibrant neighborhoods. The city’s extensive library system offers rich resources and programs that cater to a wide audience. Professionals here engage with a culturally diverse community, providing essential support and enrichment activities.
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  7. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $81,578
    Working as a librarian in San Francisco means being part of a forward-thinking community. The city's libraries are known for their innovative programs and technology integration. Librarians here support a range of initiatives that promote education, literacy, and community engagement in a dynamic urban setting.
    Find Librarian jobs in San Francisco, CA


  8. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $78,840
    Portland's librarians thrive in a creative and community-oriented environment. The city's libraries offer a variety of programs and resources that support lifelong learning. Professionals here engage with a passionate community, providing services that enhance cultural and educational experiences.
    Find Librarian jobs in Portland, OR


  9. New Haven, CT
    Average Salary: $76,279
    New Haven offers a rich academic and cultural backdrop for librarians. With Yale University nearby, professionals have access to extensive resources and research opportunities. The city’s vibrant community creates a supportive environment for engaging with patrons and fostering a love for learning.
    Find Librarian jobs in New Haven, CT


  10. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $76,208
    In San Diego, librarians contribute to a vibrant and diverse community. The city's libraries offer a range of programs that support education and cultural enrichment. Professionals here engage with a dynamic and growing population, providing essential services and resources that enhance quality of life.
    Find Librarian jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the best companies a Librarian can work for?

Job seekers looking for high-paying librarian roles should consider the University of Hawaii system. This institution offers a competitive average salary of $145,408. Another top choice is the Library of Congress, with an average salary of $137,389. Both companies value their librarians and offer excellent compensation packages. Prospective librarians may also find attractive positions with Nixon Peabody LLP, which pays an average of $96,731. Other notable employers include Montgomery County Public Schools, MD, and Prince William County Government, with average salaries of $92,394 and $91,677, respectively. These opportunities demonstrate the strong earning potential available for those in the field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Librarian jobs, highlighting University of Hawaii System with the highest at $145,408 and State of Michigan with the lowest at $71,617.
  1. University of Hawaii System
    Average Salary: $145,408
    The University of Hawaii System offers rewarding Librarian positions. This includes managing library services in various locations such as Honolulu, Hilo, and Manoa. The work environment is dynamic and offers opportunities for growth.


  2. Library Of Congress
    Average Salary: $137,389
    Working at the Library Of Congress provides Librarians with a chance to handle some of the world’s most important collections. Locations include Washington, D.C., where the job can be both challenging and fulfilling.


  3. Nixon Peabody LLP
    Average Salary: $96,731
    Nixon Peabody LLP offers specialized Librarian roles, focusing on legal research and resources. The company operates in several locations across the country, providing a unique work environment.


  4. Montgomery County Public Schools, MD
    Average Salary: $92,394
    Montgomery County Public Schools offer Librarian jobs that focus on educational resources and student support. The company serves areas in and around Rockville, Maryland, with many opportunities for professional development.


  5. Prince William County Government
    Average Salary: $91,677
    Prince William County Government provides Librarian roles that involve community outreach and resource management. The company operates in several locations, including Manassas, Virginia, offering a stable and engaging work environment.


  6. Newark Board of Education
    Average Salary: $88,751
    The Newark Board of Education offers Librarian positions focused on school resources and student support. The company serves the Newark area, providing a supportive and educational work environment.


  7. Hofstra University
    Average Salary: $88,342
    Hofstra University offers Librarian roles that focus on academic resources and student services. The university is located in Hempstead, New York, providing a vibrant and educational work environment.


  8. Fayette County Public Schools
    Average Salary: $75,217
    Fayette County Public Schools offer Librarian positions focusing on educational resources and student support. The company serves areas in and around Lexington, Kentucky, providing a stable and engaging work environment.


  9. Mesquite ISD
    Average Salary: $72,974
    Mesquite ISD provides Librarian roles focused on educational resources and student support. The company serves areas in and around Mesquite, Texas, offering a supportive and engaging work environment.


  10. State of Michigan
    Average Salary: $71,617
    The State of Michigan offers Librarian positions that involve managing public library services. The company operates in various locations across the state, providing a stable and engaging work environment.

How to earn more as a Librarian?

A Librarian can find several ways to increase their earnings. These strategies offer both immediate and long-term benefits. Librarians who pursue higher education, certifications, and additional skills can often secure higher-paying positions. Specialization in areas like digital media, archives, or technology management opens up lucrative opportunities. Networking within the industry provides insights into better-paying roles and hidden job markets.

Exploring opportunities in different sectors can also lead to higher salaries. Librarians can find better pay in academic institutions, corporate libraries, or government agencies. Taking on leadership roles, such as department heads or library directors, usually results in higher compensation. Being open to relocation for higher-paying positions is another effective strategy. Geographic areas with a higher demand for librarians often offer better salaries.

Consider these factors to boost earnings as a Librarian:

  • Pursue advanced education and certifications.
  • Specialize in high-demand areas.
  • Network within the industry.
  • Explore opportunities in different sectors.
  • Consider leadership and management roles.

Currently 314 Librarian job openings, nationwide.

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

Learn what a Librarian does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Librarian today.
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Librarian
314 Job Openings