Metadata Librarian Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the information age, the importance of metadata librarians is more evident than ever.

As the volume of digital data grows exponentially, the demand for skilled professionals who can organize, manage, and protect our digital knowledge repositories becomes increasingly crucial.

But let’s dissect the role a bit: What’s truly expected from a metadata librarian?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the depth of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the profile of the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of metadata management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a versatile metadata librarian job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Metadata Librarian Duties and Responsibilities

Metadata Librarians play a crucial role in organizing and classifying digital and physical information for libraries and other information centers.

They use metadata, which is data about other data, to make it easier for users to find the information they need.

The duties and responsibilities of a Metadata Librarian include:

• Create, edit, and manage descriptive, administrative, and technical metadata
• Develop and implement metadata policies, procedures, and standards
• Collaborate with other librarians and stakeholders to ensure metadata quality and consistency
• Use metadata schemas such as Dublin Core, MARC, EAD, or MODS
• Train staff on metadata creation, editing, and management
• Participate in the development and maintenance of knowledge bases and authority files
• Ensure the interoperability of metadata across different systems and platforms
• Collaborate with technical staff to manage metadata in library systems and databases
• Stay current with emerging trends, standards, and practices in metadata and cataloging
• Participate in special projects and initiatives involving metadata, digital collections, and digital preservation

 

Metadata Librarian Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented Metadata Librarian to manage and organize information about materials in our collection.

The Metadata Librarian will be responsible for creating, editing, and managing metadata to optimize information discovery and access.

Our ideal candidates are familiar with library systems and standards, have experience working with metadata schemes and tools, and have a strong commitment to promoting access to and use of collections.

Ultimately, the role of the Metadata Librarian is to ensure that high-quality metadata is available to our users to enhance their research and learning.

 

Responsibilities

• Create, maintain and enrich metadata for various resources
• Analyze and improve metadata practices and workflows
• Participate in the development, implementation and evaluation of metadata policies and standards
• Work with other librarians and staff to improve discoverability of resources
• Collaborate on projects related to digital collections and repositories
• Provide training and support to staff on metadata creation and editing
• Keep abreast of new developments in the field of metadata and library information science

 

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Library and Information Science or a related field
• Experience working with various metadata schemas and standards (e.g. Dublin Core, MARC, EAD, etc.)
• Knowledge of library cataloging systems and procedures
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Experience with digital repositories and/or digital collections is a plus

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Metadata Librarian
• Work Environment: Library setting. Some remote work may be possible.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Library Director or Head of Technical Services.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $52,000 minimum to $68,000 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 library. 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, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a list of three professional references to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Metadata Librarian Do?

Metadata Librarians primarily work in libraries, museums, archives, or any organization that manages a large amount of information or data.

They can also be self-employed or work as consultants.

Their primary role is to organize and categorize information or digital assets, such as books, articles, photographs, and videos, by applying appropriate metadata tags.

These tags help to describe, categorize, and provide context to the information, which helps in easy retrieval and discovery.

Metadata Librarians work closely with other librarians, data managers, IT professionals, and sometimes directly with users.

They create metadata standards and guidelines, ensuring they are in line with the organization’s goals and needs.

They play a crucial role in digital projects, ensuring the correct application of metadata standards, providing training and support to other staff members, and troubleshooting issues relating to metadata.

In addition, they often participate in the development and implementation of digital repository systems, data preservation, and digital archiving strategies.

They might also be involved in data analysis, using metadata to identify patterns and trends in data usage.

 

Metadata Librarian Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Metadata Librarian should possess a range of skills and qualifications, including:

• A deep understanding of metadata principles, standards, schemes and applications such as MARC, Dublin Core, EAD, and others.
• Technical skills to navigate and manage library databases, digital libraries, and library catalog systems.
• Strong knowledge of library and information science principles, including cataloging and information organization.
• Exceptional analytical skills to evaluate metadata for accuracy and consistency and to solve complex cataloging problems.
• Excellent communication skills to interact with library staff, researchers, and patrons, and to create clear documentation.
• Project management skills to handle multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Attention to detail for accurate and thorough cataloging of information resources.
• Advanced computer skills and familiarity with various software tools and content management systems.
• Flexibility to adapt to changes in technology, standards, and practices in the field of metadata and cataloging.

 

Metadata Librarian Experience Requirements

Entry-level Metadata Librarians may have at least 1 to 2 years of experience, typically through an internship, part-time role or project work in libraries, museums, or archives dealing with metadata or cataloging.

These professionals could also acquire relevant on-the-job experience in roles such as Cataloging Librarian, Digital Collections Assistant, or Data Curator.

Candidates with over 3 years of experience generally have further developed their skills and knowledge in metadata management and standards, digital asset management systems, and the applications of metadata in information retrieval.

They might have held positions such as Metadata Specialist, Digital Collections Librarian, or Digital Asset Manager.

Those with more than 5 years of experience usually have considerable expertise in metadata creation, editing, and management.

They often have supervisory experience and may have held roles such as Lead Metadata Librarian, Digital Initiatives Coordinator, or Collection Development Manager.

These professionals are typically prepared for roles with more leadership and strategic planning responsibilities.

 

Metadata Librarian Education and Training Requirements

Metadata Librarians typically need a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) from a program accredited by the American Library Association.

This degree program provides them with knowledge of cataloging, information resources, information systems, data management and other relevant courses.

In addition, they need a strong understanding of metadata standards such as Dublin Core, MARC, and others.

Familiarity with XML, RDF, and other data formats is also crucial.

Some positions may require prior experience in cataloging or information management, hence a background in these areas could be beneficial.

Moreover, certain positions may demand specialized knowledge in a certain field, for instance, a Metadata Librarian working for a law library might need to have some legal knowledge.

Certifications in metadata management, data analysis, or information systems could be an added advantage and demonstrate an individual’s commitment to continual learning and expertise in the field.

Continuing education is also important in this role, as technology and metadata standards constantly evolve.

Therefore, Metadata Librarians need to be dedicated to ongoing learning and adaptation.

 

Metadata Librarian Salary Expectations

A Metadata Librarian can expect to earn an average salary of $58,520 (USD) per year.

However, this figure can fluctuate depending on the individual’s level of experience, education, specific skills, and the region in which they work.

 

Metadata Librarian Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Metadata Librarian need?

A Metadata Librarian should have a strong background in library science, along with a good understanding of various metadata standards and schema.

They should also have excellent computer skills, particularly with databases and library cataloguing systems.

Strong analytical skills are key, as they often work with complex data sets.

Additionally, they should possess excellent attention to detail, organization, and communication skills.

 

Do Metadata Librarians need a degree?

Yes, typically, a Metadata Librarian will need to have a Master’s degree in Library Science (MLS) or Information Science from a program accredited by the American Library Association (ALA).

Some institutions may also require or prefer additional education or experience in a related field, such as computer science or data management.

 

What should you look for in a Metadata Librarian resume?

When reviewing a Metadata Librarian’s resume, look for a Master’s degree in Library Science or a related field.

Additionally, any experience in library cataloguing, metadata creation, or data management is advantageous.

Skills to look out for include experience with metadata standards like Dublin Core or MARC21, database management, and digital preservation.

 

What qualities make a good Metadata Librarian?

A good Metadata Librarian is detail-oriented, with the ability to handle large amounts of data accurately and efficiently.

They should also be adaptable, as they’ll need to keep up with evolving technology and metadata standards.

Strong problem-solving skills are also important, as they often need to troubleshoot issues related to data management and digital preservation.

Finally, they should have strong communication skills to explain technical information to non-technical colleagues.

 

What is the role of a Metadata Librarian in digital preservation?

Metadata Librarians play a crucial role in digital preservation by creating, maintaining, and updating metadata for digital resources.

This ensures that digital resources are easily discoverable, accessible, and can be properly managed and preserved over time.

They may also play a role in creating policies and procedures related to digital preservation.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve revealed the intricacies of being a Metadata Librarian.

Surprised?

It’s not just about cataloging books.

It’s about organizing the world of information, one metadata tag at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive Metadata Librarian job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why halt your journey here?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for creating precision-tailored job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every piece of metadata is a part of the larger informational landscape.

Let’s shape that landscape. Together.

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