Local History Librarian Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the age of information, the role of local history librarians is more crucial than ever.

As society pushes forward, the demand for knowledgeable individuals who can preserve, interpret, and share our community’s past grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a local history librarian?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the essence of this role,
• A hiring manager seeking to outline the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of local history and library science,

You’ve come to the right place.

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

Let’s dive right into it.

Local History Librarian Duties and Responsibilities

Local History Librarians are responsible for managing, preserving, and making accessible local history resources.

This includes assisting patrons in locating and utilizing these materials, designing educational programs, and working closely with the community to promote the understanding and value of local history.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Maintaining and organizing local history collections, including books, newspapers, photographs, and digital resources
• Assisting patrons in researching local history and genealogy
• Developing and leading educational programs and workshops on local history
• Working with local community groups to gather and preserve historical materials
• Creating and updating finding aids, indexes, and guides to assist users in finding materials
• Digitizing resources to make them more accessible to the public
• Curating exhibits and displays to showcase local history
• Contributing to the library’s website and social media platforms with local history content
• Conducting outreach to schools and community organizations to promote the library’s local history resources
• Collaborating with other library staff to integrate local history into the broader library collection and services

 

Local History Librarian Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated Local History Librarian to join our team.

The Local History Librarian will be responsible for maintaining and expanding our library’s collection of local historical resources, assisting patrons in historical research, and planning and hosting local history programs.

The ideal candidate has a passion for history, exceptional organizational skills, and the ability to communicate effectively with library patrons of all ages.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage and expand our library’s collection of local history resources
• Assist library patrons in conducting historical research
• Plan and host local history programs and exhibits
• Work with community organizations to gather and preserve local historical materials
• Create and manage local history databases and digital archives
• Provide reference and research services to library patrons
• Develop and maintain local history web pages
• Assist in grant writing and fundraising efforts for local history projects

 

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent
• Experience working in a library setting, preferably with a focus on local history
• Knowledge of local history and culture
• Proficiency in the use of library databases and other research tools
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills
• Ability to work with diverse groups of people

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Local History Librarian
• Work Environment: This position is based in our local history library department. Occasional off-site work may be required for local history events or exhibits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Library Director or designated supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $55,000 minimum to $70,000 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 Local History Librarian Do?

Local History Librarians work primarily in public libraries, historical societies, or university libraries.

Their key focus is to specialize in historical information pertaining to a particular area or region.

They collect, catalog, and preserve local historical documents, maps, photographs, newspaper archives, and other materials.

They also conduct research using these materials to answer queries from the public, students, researchers, or other librarians.

Local History Librarians work closely with the local community, often conducting outreach programs such as lectures, workshops, and exhibits to engage the community with their local history and heritage.

They also collaborate with other librarians, researchers, and local government officials to identify significant materials that should be preserved for future generations.

Their work involves creating and managing digital archives, ensuring easy access to historical information for the public.

They also write articles or reports about local history and provide reference services to library patrons.

Local History Librarians play a vital role in preserving local history and promoting community engagement with the past.

 

Local History Librarian Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Local History Librarian should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• A Bachelor’s degree in History, Library Science, or a related field, and a considerable amount of experience in library services.
• Strong knowledge of local history and culture to provide patrons with accurate and relevant information.
• Research skills to delve into the depths of local history, uncovering and documenting information that may not be readily available.
• Organizational skills to manage and categorize a variety of resources, from books and manuscripts to digital records and artifacts.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills to connect with a diverse group of patrons, from students and researchers to members of the local community.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to present information in a clear and engaging manner, conduct workshops, and liaise with other institutions.
• Proficiency in using library databases and digital archives, as well as traditional cataloging techniques, to manage and retrieve information.
• Problem-solving skills to assist patrons in their research, helping them find the resources they need and answer their questions about local history.
• Ability to curate exhibits and displays that highlight key aspects of local history and culture.

 

Local History Librarian Experience Requirements

Entry-level Local History Librarian candidates typically require a Master’s Degree in Library Science, with a concentration in history or a related field.

This degree often involves an internship or practical work experience in a library environment, providing the hands-on experience needed for many entry-level jobs.

Additionally, they might gain experience by volunteering at local libraries, museums, or archival institutions.

They also tend to have experience in cataloging, referencing, and managing historical materials, including books, documents, photographs, and digital materials.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience have often worked in academic or public libraries, and have honed their skills in research, collection development, and public outreach.

They may also have experience in curating exhibits or planning events that engage the public with local history.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have held supervisory positions, managing library assistants and volunteers.

They might have significant experience in grant writing, fundraising, and budget management.

These senior librarians are often in charge of strategic planning for their department, and may be involved in community outreach to promote the library and its services.

 

Local History Librarian Education and Training Requirements

Individuals interested in becoming a Local History Librarian typically require a master’s degree in library science or a closely related field.

Most of these programs emphasize the importance of understanding the organization and management of library resources, which are essential skills for a librarian.

In some cases, a bachelor’s degree in history or a related field may be beneficial, as it provides a solid understanding of the historical context of various documents and materials.

As a librarian, they need to have a strong background in research and a familiarity with archival preservation and digitization.

Some roles may require librarians to have specialized training in local history or genealogy.

In addition to the educational requirements, most states require librarians to be licensed.

The licensing criteria can vary, but generally requires the individual to have completed their master’s degree and passed a state licensing exam.

Although not always required, many local history librarians pursue additional certifications or degrees in history or archival studies.

These additional qualifications can demonstrate a candidate’s commitment to ongoing learning and their dedication to the field.

Finally, the role often requires a high level of organization, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills to interact with library patrons and other staff members.

 

Local History Librarian Salary Expectations

A Local History Librarian earns an average salary of $59,050 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can vary depending on factors such as the individual’s level of experience, education, location, and the size of the employing institution.

 

Local History Librarian Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Local History Librarian need?

Local History Librarians need excellent organizational skills to manage and maintain a vast collection of historical documents and materials.

They must have strong research skills to help patrons find specific information.

Moreover, they need to have good communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with patrons and other staff.

Knowledge of digital archiving and cataloguing is also beneficial.

 

Do Local History Librarians need a degree?

Yes, Local History Librarians typically need a Master’s degree in Library Science or a related field.

Some librarians might also have a degree or background in History.

Most positions also require some amount of relevant work experience.

 

What should you look for in a Local History Librarian resume?

In a Local History Librarian’s resume, look for a degree in Library Science or a related field.

Experience in managing a local history collection or similar work in archives or special collections would be a plus.

Knowledge of local history, digital archiving, and cataloguing tools should also be evident.

Lastly, look for soft skills such as communication, customer service, and organization.

 

What qualities make a good Local History Librarian?

A good Local History Librarian has a deep interest in and understanding of local history.

They are detail-oriented and organized, which helps them manage the library’s collection effectively.

They have strong research skills and are adept at using digital tools for cataloguing and archiving.

They are also approachable and helpful, providing excellent customer service to patrons.

 

What is the role of a Local History Librarian in community engagement?

Local History Librarians play a crucial role in community engagement.

They organize events and exhibits that highlight local history and heritage, encouraging community members to learn about and appreciate their local history.

They may also work with local schools, clubs, and organizations for various local history projects.

Their expertise makes them a valuable resource for the community.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve journeyed through the stacks to unveil the role of a local history librarian.

And guess what?

It’s not just about shelving books.

It’s about preserving the past, one story at a time.

With our detailed local history librarian job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why stop there?

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

Remember:

Every artifact, every chronicle, is part of a larger narrative.

Let’s protect and share that history. Together.

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