Digital Collections Librarian Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of digitization, the focus on Digital Collections Librarians has never been more pronounced.

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the demand for skilled professionals who can organize, maintain, and protect our digital collections grows stronger.

But let’s dive deeper: What’s truly expected from a Digital Collections Librarian?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the world of digital archiving,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Digital Collections Librarian job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Digital Collections Librarian Duties and Responsibilities

Digital Collections Librarians are responsible for the digital assets of a library.

They use their strong knowledge of information technology and library systems to manage, curate, and make accessible digital resources for library users.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Organizing, preserving, and maintaining digital collections in accordance with professional standards and best practices
• Developing and implementing policies and procedures related to the acquisition, processing, and accessibility of digital materials
• Overseeing the digitization of physical materials, including books, manuscripts, images, and other resources
• Assessing the needs of library users and providing user-friendly access to digital resources
• Collaborating with other library staff to integrate digital collections into broader library services and initiatives
• Providing training and support to library staff and users on the use of digital resources
• Monitoring trends in digital librarianship and adapting library practices accordingly
• Managing the implementation of digital projects, including budgeting, planning, and scheduling
• Assisting in the procurement of digital resources, including negotiation with vendors and suppliers
• Ensuring the digital collection complies with copyright laws and other relevant legislation
• Working closely with IT staff to maintain and improve the library’s digital infrastructure

 

Digital Collections Librarian Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a diligent and innovative Digital Collections Librarian to manage, develop, and evaluate our library’s digital collections.

Responsibilities will include managing digitization projects, evaluating user experience, and collaborating with other staff members to optimize digital services and resources.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of digital content management systems, copyright laws, and digital preservation standards.

The ultimate goal is to provide our users with seamless access to our digital materials, ensuring an efficient and satisfactory experience.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage and develop the library’s digital collections and services.
• Plan and execute digitization projects for print and analog materials.
• Monitor and evaluate user experience and usage analytics to improve digital resources and services.
• Collaborate with other staff members to ensure a holistic approach to service delivery.
• Maintain current knowledge of copyright laws and guidelines relating to digital collections.
• Provide training and support to library staff and users in the use of digital collections and resources.
• Develop and implement digital preservation plans and strategies.
• Participate in outreach activities to promote digital collections and services.

 

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Library Science (MLS) or related field from an ALA-accredited program.
• Experience in a library setting with a focus on digital collections and services.
• Strong knowledge of digital content management systems and metadata standards.
• Understanding of copyright laws and guidelines as they relate to digital collections.
• Experience with project management, including planning, organizing, and coordinating tasks.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Digital Collections Librarian
• Work Environment: Library setting. Some travel may be required for professional development or conferences.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Library Director or Head of Digital Services.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Digital Collections Librarian Do?

Digital Collections Librarians typically work for libraries, museums, educational institutions, or any organization that maintains a digital collection of resources.

Their primary role is to organize, manage, and preserve digital resources such as eBooks, photographs, music, videos, and other digital materials.

They ensure these resources are stored securely and are accessible to the targeted audience.

They often work closely with other librarians, archivists, information technologists, and sometimes, with the public and scholars.

They are responsible for determining the best methods for cataloguing, classifying, and archiving digital resources, and may also be involved in the digitization of physical collections.

Digital Collections Librarians also ensure that digital resources are effectively integrated into a library’s or institution’s existing collection, and that they adhere to copyright and privacy laws.

In addition, they may provide training and guidance to other staff members or users on how to access and use digital resources, and may also collaborate on the development and implementation of digital projects or initiatives.

 

Digital Collections Librarian Qualifications and Skills

A Digital Collections Librarian should possess a unique blend of technical, interpersonal, and industry-specific skills and qualifications, such as:

• Knowledge of library information science, including best practices for cataloging, preserving, and accessing digital resources.
• Technical skills to manage digital assets and databases, and familiarity with Digital Asset Management Systems (DAMS).
• Proficiency in metadata standards such as Dublin Core, MODS, METS, EAD, and others.
• Ability to use digital preservation tools and technologies, including hardware and software for scanning, digitization, and data storage.
• Excellent organization skills to catalogue and classify digital materials efficiently and accurately.
• Strong communication skills to interact with various stakeholders, including library patrons, staff, and external partners.
• Problem-solving skills to address issues related to digital collection access, preservation, and usability.
• Understanding of copyright laws and regulations, privacy concerns, and ethical issues related to digital collections.

 

Digital Collections Librarian Experience Requirements

To start as a Digital Collections Librarian, candidates typically require a Master’s degree in Library Science or a related field.

The curriculum of these programs often includes digital preservation and information technology, which provides the necessary foundation for this role.

Entry-level candidates may also have 1 to 2 years of experience in library services, preferably in a role involving digital collections.

They may gain this experience through internships, part-time work, or volunteering at libraries or similar institutions.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience may have worked in roles that involve managing digital resources, data curation, metadata creation, or digital preservation.

They often have experience with library technologies, content management systems, and databases.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have demonstrated leadership skills in their previous roles.

They may have been responsible for managing staff or overseeing significant digital projects.

This level of experience may prepare them for more advanced roles such as Digital Collections Manager or Director of Digital Services.

Moreover, these librarians are often expected to keep abreast with rapidly changing technology and digital preservation techniques, thus continuous learning and professional development are important aspects of the role.

 

Digital Collections Librarian Education and Training Requirements

Digital Collections Librarians typically have a master’s degree in library science (MLS), library and information science (MLIS), or a related field from a program accredited by the American Library Association (ALA).

In addition to the master’s degree, a strong background in digital technologies and database management is highly recommended.

They should be well-versed in digital preservation techniques, database design, metadata standards, and digital rights management.

Experience with specific software, content management systems, and programming languages such as Python, XML, SQL, or PHP could be beneficial.

Some positions, particularly those in specialized libraries or large institutions, may require additional qualifications, such as a second master’s degree in a specific subject area or significant work experience in a related field.

Certifications in digital curation, digital preservation, or other related areas might also be advantageous.

These demonstrate a candidate’s commitment to continuous professional development and their ability to stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies in the field of digital librarianship.

Finally, hands-on experience, whether through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work, is often essential for securing a position as a Digital Collections Librarian.

This experience provides practical understanding of the day-to-day operations of a digital library and the workflows of digitization projects.

 

Digital Collections Librarian Salary Expectations

A Digital Collections Librarian earns an average salary of $54,500 (USD) per year.

The salary can differ based on factors such as experience, level of education, location, and the specific organization they work for.

 

Digital Collections Librarian Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Digital Collections Librarian need?

A Digital Collections Librarian should have strong technical skills, including knowledge of digitization techniques and metadata standards.

They should be proficient in using digital content management systems and databases.

Additionally, they should possess excellent organizational skills, an eye for detail, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills are also important for liaising with staff and users.

 

Do Digital Collections Librarians need a degree?

Yes, a Digital Collections Librarian typically needs a Master’s degree in Library Science (MLS) or a related field.

Some positions may also require knowledge or experience in a specific subject area, such as history, art, or science.

Prior work experience in a library setting, especially in digital collections or archives, can be a plus.

 

What should you look for in a Digital Collections Librarian resume?

A Digital Collections Librarian’s resume should highlight their educational background in library science or a related field, along with their technical skills.

Look for experience in managing digital collections, creating metadata, and using digital content management systems.

Additionally, any experience in project management or in a specific subject area relevant to your collection would be advantageous.

 

What qualities make a good Digital Collections Librarian?

A good Digital Collections Librarian is detail-oriented and organized, able to manage and catalog large volumes of digital resources.

They have strong technical skills and are comfortable using a variety of software and systems.

They should also be resourceful problem-solvers with a strong commitment to user services and an ability to adapt to the rapidly changing digital landscape.

 

What are the daily duties of a Digital Collections Librarian?

The daily duties of a Digital Collections Librarian may include cataloging and organizing digital resources, ensuring that digital collections are accessible to users, and maintaining the integrity of digital data.

They may also work on digitization projects, collaborate with other staff on the development of digital initiatives, and provide user support for digital resources.

Regularly, they might engage in the training of staff and users in the use of digital resources and systems.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a digital collections librarian.

Surprise surprise?

It’s not just about cataloguing books.

It’s about curating the digital knowledge repository, one resource at a time.

With our go-to digital collections librarian job description template and real-world instances, you’re ready to embark on your journey.

But why limit yourself?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-drafted listings or refining your CV to perfection.

Remember:

Each curated resource is a part of the broader knowledge universe.

Let’s curate that future. Together.

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