Librarians and Media Collections Specialists
O*NET 25-4022.00 · SOC 25-4022
Librarian is a solid career choice. Median pay is $68k a year with +2.6% projected growth through 2035 (slower than average) and about 12,600 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Help patrons locate books, articles, and research materials.
- →Evaluate and select new titles to add to collections.
- →Teach library patrons how to use research databases effectively.
- →Catalog new materials using established classification systems.
- →Develop and lead reading programs for community members.
Education & How to Get In
Librarian roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
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Work Environment
Structured, offices, data centers, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Librarian involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Librarian?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Librarian Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Librarians and Media Collections Specialists is projected to grow 2.6% from 2025 to 2035, slower than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·36% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·33% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Librarian make?
The median Librarian earns $68k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Librarian jobs?
Our model puts Librarian at 38 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 36% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 33% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace.
Is Librarian a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 2.6% between 2025 and 2035, which is slower than average. That works out to roughly 12,600 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Librarian?
Librarian roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become a Librarian?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Librarian career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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