Digital Librarian Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the digital era, the role of digital librarians is increasingly crucial.

As the landscape of information accessibility continues to evolve, the demand for adept individuals who can curate, manage, and protect our digital repositories grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a digital 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 intricacies of digital librarianship,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable digital librarian job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Digital Librarian Duties and Responsibilities

Digital Librarians are responsible for the management and organization of digital media, including e-books, online journals, and other educational resources.

They ensure the digital library is user-friendly and that its resources are easily accessible.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Overseeing the organization and management of digital resources
• Performing digital library system updates and maintenance
• Assisting users with navigating and utilizing digital library resources
• Developing and implementing digital library policies and procedures
• Collaborating with educators, researchers, and other professionals to optimize the digital library’s offerings
• Ensuring the digital library’s compliance with copyright and data protection laws
• Training staff and users on the use of digital tools and resources
• Evaluating and selecting new digital resources to be added to the collection
• Creating and maintaining metadata for digital resources to enhance searchability
• Monitoring the digital library’s usage and user satisfaction to identify areas for improvement

 

Digital Librarian Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Digital Librarian to join our team.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of digital information management, cataloguing practices, and databases.

They will be responsible for managing and organizing our digital resources, providing technical support and training to staff and users, and developing innovative digital solutions to improve access to the library’s resources.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain digital databases, e-books, online learning resources, and other digital collections
• Catalogue and classify digital resources for easy access and retrieval
• Provide technical support and training to staff and users on how to access digital resources
• Collaborate with IT staff to manage and troubleshoot digital platforms
• Monitor and evaluate new digital information products and services
• Assess user needs to provide responsive digital services
• Promote the library’s digital resources to users and staff
• Develop strategies for digitizing traditional library materials
• Stay current with emerging trends in digital information technology
• Ensure compliance with copyright and data protection laws

 

Qualifications

• A Master’s degree in Library Science, Information Science, or a related field
• Proven experience as a Digital Librarian or similar role
• Knowledge of library operations and digital information technology
• Proficiency in database management and relevant software applications
• Excellent organizational and cataloguing skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Experience with digital content management systems
• Ability to provide technical support and training to a diverse range of users
• 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 Librarian
• Work Environment: Public or private library setting with some options for remote work. May be required to travel for professional development or networking events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Library Director or Senior Librarian.
• Salary: Salary is based on candidate’s experience, qualifications, and market rates.
• 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 Librarian Do?

Digital Librarians work primarily within libraries or other information settings, but instead of dealing with physical collections, they are responsible for managing and organizing digital resources.

They collect, store, and retrieve digital information such as e-books, digital documents, databases, and online publications, making them easily accessible to library users or staff.

They also use metadata and other cataloging techniques to organize and classify digital content.

They are responsible for maintaining and updating this digital catalog to ensure it meets the needs of its users.

Digital Librarians frequently work on digitization projects, converting physical resources into digital formats, and ensuring the preservation of these digital assets over time.

They may also provide technical support and training to library users or staff, helping them navigate databases and other digital resources, use e-readers, or access digital services.

Digital Librarians often work closely with IT professionals to manage and maintain the library’s technology infrastructure, troubleshoot issues, and implement new digital services or improvements.

They play a critical role in improving access to information and making libraries more relevant in the digital age.

 

Digital Librarian Qualifications and Skills

A qualified Digital Librarian should have the skills and qualifications that are in accordance with the job role, such as:

• Digital literacy skills to operate and navigate through various online databases, digital archives, and e-books.
• Technical skills to manage digital resources, perform digital preservation, and troubleshoot software or hardware issues.
• Organizational skills to categorize and classify digital information for easy retrieval and use.
• Interpersonal skills to interact with users, understand their informational needs, and provide tailored services.
• Communication skills to explain complex digital systems or services to users with varying levels of technical knowledge.
• Research skills to stay updated with the latest digital library trends and developments.
• Customer service skills to address user queries, issues, and provide a satisfactory library experience.
• Understanding of copyright and digital rights management to ensure that digital content is used and distributed ethically and legally.

 

Digital Librarian Experience Requirements

Digital Librarians may start their journey with a degree in Library Science, Information Science or a related field.

Often, they have hands-on experience with library systems and databases, gained through internships or part-time positions in libraries or similar settings.

Entry-level Digital Librarians typically have 1 to 2 years of experience working with digital collections and information management.

They may also have experience in cataloging, metadata standards, and digital preservation which they could have gained during their academic training or through volunteering in libraries.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have more specialized knowledge in digital librarianship, including experience in digitization projects, digital asset management, and knowledge of copyright and licensing issues.

They may also have proficiency in using specific library software systems and experience with website development and management.

Professionals with more than 5 years of experience often have a deep understanding of the operations of a digital library, and may have managed digital projects or teams.

They may also have expertise in areas such as information architecture, user experience design, and data analysis.

This level of experience may position them for roles with more responsibility, such as Digital Library Manager or Director.

 

Digital Librarian Education and Training Requirements

Digital Librarians typically require a master’s degree in library science, information science, or a related field.

Some roles may accept a bachelor’s degree in a related field, supplemented with relevant work experience.

The course curriculum should ideally cover areas such as cataloging, information organization, digital reference systems, and database management.

Knowledge of information architecture is often desired.

A solid understanding of digital preservation and digital copyright issues is crucial for this role.

Familiarity with metadata standards and digital content management systems is also often required.

Digital librarians should also possess technological skills, including proficiency in relevant software applications, database management systems, and digital library technologies.

Some roles may require additional certification in digital librarianship or digital preservation.

Continual professional development, through courses or workshops on emerging digital tools and platforms, can also be beneficial in this rapidly evolving field.

Most states require librarians, including digital librarians, to obtain a work license.

These requirements vary but often include having a master’s degree from a program accredited by the American Library Association (ALA), and some level of work experience or an internship.

A commitment to ongoing learning, as shown by pursuing additional certifications or advanced degrees, can demonstrate a candidate’s dedication and potential for growth in this role.

 

Digital Librarian Salary Expectations

A Digital Librarian can expect to earn an average salary of $57,500 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can differ based on the individual’s level of education, years of experience in the field, and the location of their employment.

 

Digital Librarian Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Digital Librarian need?

Digital Librarians need to have strong technology skills, as they will be working with various types of digital assets and databases.

They should have an understanding of metadata standards and database systems.

Strong organization and research skills are important for managing and locating digital resources.

Communication skills are also crucial as they will interact with users to understand their needs and provide appropriate resources or assistance.

 

Do Digital Librarians need a degree?

Yes, most Digital Librarians have a Master’s Degree in Library Science (MLS) or Information Science (MIS).

Some roles may also require knowledge or training in computer science or a related field.

While a degree is often necessary, practical experience with digital resources and technology can also be highly valuable.

 

What should you look for in a Digital Librarian resume?

A Digital Librarian’s resume should demonstrate experience with digital asset management, database systems, and metadata standards.

Experience with specific systems or software used in your organization can also be a plus.

The resume should also show strong research and organization skills, and any experience in user services or interaction can be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Digital Librarian?

A good Digital Librarian is detail-oriented, organized, and technologically savvy.

They should be able to manage multiple tasks and projects at once, and have strong problem-solving skills to navigate any issues with the digital systems or resources.

They should also have good interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with users and other library staff.

 

Is it difficult to hire Digital Librarians?

The difficulty in hiring a Digital Librarian can depend on several factors, such as the specific requirements of the role and the job market.

While there are many professionals with degrees in Library Science, not all have specialized in digital resources or have the necessary technology skills.

Therefore, finding a candidate who is a good fit for the role may require a more targeted search or offering competitive benefits and opportunities for professional development.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the essence of what it truly means to be a digital librarian.

Surprised?

It’s not just about sorting books.

It’s about building a digital library, one eBook at a time.

With our comprehensive digital librarian job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to leap forward.

But why end here?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your perfect tool for crafting precise listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Keep in mind:

Every eBook is a piece of the broader digital library.

Let’s create that future. Together.

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