Instructional Librarian Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of information, the role of Instructional Librarians has taken on new dimensions.

As the digital revolution advances, the demand for savvy professionals who can guide, facilitate, and safeguard our knowledge repositories increases.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Instructional 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 inner workings of library science,

You’re at the right place.

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

Let’s dive right in.

Instructional Librarian Duties and Responsibilities

Instructional Librarians play a crucial role in providing access to information resources and teaching individuals how to effectively use these resources.

They work in a variety of settings such as schools, universities, public libraries and more.

The typical duties and responsibilities of an Instructional Librarian include:

• Developing and delivering instructional sessions to patrons on how to use library resources effectively
• Creating, updating, and maintaining instructional materials, like tutorials, guides, and handouts
• Assisting patrons in identifying and accessing appropriate resources for their research or inquiries
• Providing information literacy instruction to help patrons critically evaluate and use information
• Collaborating with faculty or teachers to integrate library resources into the curriculum
• Evaluating and selecting new resources to add to the library’s collection
• Participating in outreach activities to promote the library’s resources and services
• Staying current with emerging technologies and trends in library instruction
• Developing and maintaining the library’s website and online catalog
• Assisting in the management of the library’s budget and resources

 

Instructional Librarian Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Instructional Librarian to join our team.

The Instructional Librarian is responsible for developing and delivering library instruction programs, providing research assistance, and contributing to collection development.

Ideal candidates are educators at heart and are passionate about promoting information literacy among students and faculty.

 

Responsibilities

• Design, teach, and assess library instruction sessions in collaboration with faculty and academic departments.
• Develop online instructional materials and guides.
• Provide in-depth research consultations for students, faculty, and staff.
• Contribute to collection development in assigned subject areas.
• Participate in outreach activities to promote library resources and services.
• Collaborate on library-wide initiatives and projects.
• Stay current with trends and developments in library instruction and information literacy.
• Provide reference services in person, via email, and through live chat.
• Work with other librarians to develop policies and procedures.

 

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited program or equivalent.
• Experience with instructional design and teaching, preferably in a library setting.
• Knowledge of information literacy concepts and standards.
• Experience with online learning platforms and tools.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.

 

Benefits

• Retirement plan
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid vacation and sick leave
• Professional development opportunities
• Tuition assistance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Instructional Librarian
• Work Environment: Campus library setting. Evening and weekend hours may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Library Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $55,000 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, cover letter, and a statement of your teaching philosophy to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Instructional Librarian Do?

Instructional Librarians work primarily in academic institutions such as colleges and universities, but they can also be found in public libraries and special libraries.

Their primary role is to instruct students, faculty, and other users on how to use the library’s resources effectively.

This includes providing guidance on how to locate and evaluate information from various sources such as books, e-books, databases, and the internet.

They design and implement information literacy programs, workshops, and classes that teach users how to conduct academic research, evaluate information sources, and use specific databases or research tools.

They also collaborate with faculty to integrate information literacy into the curriculum and create specialized research guides for specific courses or subjects.

Instructional Librarians often provide one-on-one research assistance and consultation to students and faculty.

They may also be responsible for maintaining and updating the library’s instructional materials and resources, such as tutorials, handouts, and online guides.

In addition to their instructional duties, they may also participate in collection development, reference services, and other library operations.

 

Instructional Librarian Qualifications and Skills

Instructional Librarians combine a broad range of skills and qualifications to assist library patrons, create instructional materials, and manage resources.

These include:

• Knowledge of library science and information technology to manage library resources, databases, and digital learning materials.
• Instructional design skills to create educational materials and programs that facilitate learning and encourage the use of library resources.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively instruct and assist students, faculty, and other library users.
• Interpersonal skills to work closely with academic staff to support curriculum development and maintain strong relationships within the educational community.
• Research skills to keep abreast of new trends and technology in library science, and to assist patrons in conducting their own research.
• Organizational skills for cataloguing and categorizing library resources, as well as scheduling and managing instructional programs.
• Problem-solving skills to navigate complex information systems, troubleshoot technological issues, and address patron inquiries.

 

Instructional Librarian Experience Requirements

Instructional Librarians typically require at least a Master’s degree in Library Science or a related field.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through an internship or a part-time role in an academic or public library.

While in these roles, they develop crucial skills such as research, reference work, information literacy instruction and collection development.

They also gain experience with library management systems and cataloging tools.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often develop specialized skills such as curriculum development, educational technology, and student engagement.

They may also have experience collaborating with faculty and administrators to integrate library resources into the curriculum.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have some leadership experience in their background and may be ready for a role as a department head or library director.

They may also have a track record of contributing to the professional library community through publications, presentations, or committee work.

Some positions may require additional qualifications, such as a teaching certification or a second Master’s degree in an academic subject area.

 

Instructional Librarian Education and Training Requirements

Instructional Librarians typically have a Master’s degree in Library Science (MLS) or Library and Information Studies (MLIS) from a program accredited by the American Library Association (ALA).

In addition to their graduate education, they should have knowledge of library services, resources, and an understanding of how information is organized and classified.

They must also be knowledgeable about instructional design principles and pedagogical methods to effectively teach information literacy skills.

Familiarity with digital resources and database management systems, including how to access, evaluate, and use them effectively, is also crucial for this role.

Some positions may require additional certifications or training in instructional design, information literacy, or a similar field.

Instructional Librarians may also benefit from knowledge or experience in a particular subject area, depending on the needs of the institution they work for.

It is also important for Instructional Librarians to engage in continuous professional development to stay current with emerging trends and technologies in the field of librarianship and information literacy.

 

Instructional Librarian Salary Expectations

An Instructional Librarian can expect to earn an average salary of $59,050 (USD) per year.

However, this amount can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, education, location, and the specific institution that the librarian is employed by.

 

Instructional Librarian Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Instructional Librarian need?

Instructional Librarians should possess strong communication skills and be able to work well with both students and faculty.

They should have a good understanding of various research methods, digital tools, and library databases.

Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks at once are also crucial.

They should also be comfortable with public speaking, as they often have to conduct workshops or presentations.

 

Do Instructional Librarians need a degree?

Yes, Instructional Librarians typically need to have a Master’s degree in Library Science (MLS) or Library and Information Science (MLIS).

Some positions may also require additional education or experience in education, instructional design, or a related field.

 

What should you look for in an Instructional Librarian resume?

First, confirm that they have the necessary educational qualifications, like an MLS or MLIS degree.

Relevant work experience in an academic library is also important.

Look for experience with instructional design, curriculum development, and digital tools.

Also, pay attention to any experience they have with public speaking or conducting workshops, as this is a large part of the job.

 

What qualities make a good Instructional Librarian?

A good Instructional Librarian is patient and able to explain complex concepts in a way that is easy for people to understand.

They should be approachable and friendly, as they often work with students who may feel overwhelmed by research.

The ability to adapt to new technologies and learning methods is also important.

 

How does an Instructional Librarian support the educational mission of a school or university?

Instructional Librarians support the educational mission of a school or university by teaching students how to effectively find and use information.

This includes teaching them about different research methods, how to use library databases and digital tools, and how to evaluate the credibility of sources.

By providing this education, Instructional Librarians play a crucial role in supporting students’ academic success.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being an Instructional Librarian.

And guess what?

It’s not just about bookkeeping.

It’s about guiding the pursuit of knowledge, one source at a time.

With our comprehensive instructional librarian job description template and real-world examples, you’re perfectly equipped to take your next step.

But why rest on your laurels?

Expand your horizons with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for meticulously-designed listings or for honing your resume to a T.

Remember:

Every resource is a stepping stone to greater knowledge.

Let’s pave the path to learning. Together.

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