Librarians and Media Collections Specialists
Librarians and Media Collections Specialists manage libraries and information collections in educational institutions, museums, corporations, and public settings. They organize materials ranging from books and periodicals to recordings and films, and help patrons access information through reference services and borrowing systems. The role requires extensive preparation, typically a graduate degree.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against librarians and media collections specialists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves cataloging new materials, maintaining digital and physical collections, assisting patrons with research requests, and managing library systems. Specialists might spend time organizing media files, updating databases, answering reference questions at a desk or via phone and email, training staff on new systems, and coordinating with other departments. Administrative tasks include budgeting, purchasing decisions, and policy development.
Who this work suits
Holland code CSI. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this work if you enjoy organizing information and prefer structured systems and clear rules—the conventional interest. You also value helping others access knowledge and serving your community. You're detail-oriented, methodical, and find satisfaction in making information discoverable.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Librarian (Collection Development Librarian) · Library of Congress · Washington, District of Columbia · $70623–$91815
- Supervisory Librarian NF-04 · United States Army Installation Management Command · Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington · $70000–$80000
- Librarian (Medical Science) · Veterans Health Administration · Richmond, Virginia · $78009–$101417
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $80,690 | $100,030 | $118,540 | 2,750 |
| District of Columbia | $76,960 | $96,550 | $108,780 | 960 |
| California | $66,540 | $89,790 | $108,800 | 10,180 |
| Maryland | $68,350 | $88,570 | $105,070 | 3,220 |
| Nevada | $66,670 | $84,540 | $95,150 | 610 |
| Connecticut | $63,050 | $79,210 | $99,120 | 2,550 |
| Alaska | $62,440 | $78,810 | $97,710 | 350 |
| New York | $63,490 | $78,590 | $99,530 | 11,870 |
| Massachusetts | $62,550 | $78,540 | $97,710 | 4,980 |
| New Jersey | $63,900 | $78,380 | $99,770 | 4,100 |
| Oregon | $60,220 | $78,070 | $93,620 | 1,690 |
| Delaware | $66,090 | $77,700 | $95,070 | 370 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Technology Specialist-Design (CTS-D) — Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against librarians and media collections specialists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 25-4022.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.