Librarians

Overview

Librarians select, develop, organize and maintain library collections and provide advisory services for users. They are employed in libraries or other establishments with library services throughout the public and private sectors.

This group performs some or all of the following duties:

  • Recommend acquisition of books, periodicals and audio-visual, interactive media and other materials for inclusion in library collection

  • Provide reference services

  • Select, classify, catalogue and weed library materials

  • Prepare bibliographies, indexes, reading lists, guides and other finding aids

  • Develop systems to access library collections

  • Perform manual, on-line and interactive media reference searches to assist users in accessing library materials and arrange for interlibrary loans

  • Develop taxonomies using various information and data sources

  • Provide specialized programs for children, seniors and other groups

  • Conduct library information and orientation training programs and tours

  • Perform related administrative duties and supervise library technicians, assistants and clerks.

Job titles

  • art librarian
  • associate librarian
  • automation librarian
  • bibliographer
  • bookmobile librarian
  • cataloguer - library

Employment prospects

Source: BC Labour Market Outlook 2024 edition

Annual salary

Low

$62,568

Median

$79,253

High

$126,054

Job openings

Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.

British Columbia

192

expected job openings (5-year forecast)

Education and training

Employment requirements

  • A master's degree in library science or a master's degree in library and information studies or a master's degree from a program accredited by the American Library Association is required.

Additional information

  • Progression to library management positions is possible with experience.

Certification requirements

  • No certification requirements

Post-secondary programs in B.C.

Explore programs related to this career offered at post-secondary institutions in B.C.

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