Radical Librarian Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of information, the importance of radical librarians has never been more pronounced.

As the world of knowledge expands, the demand for innovative minds who can curate, enhance, and protect our information resources escalates.

But let’s unravel the mystery: What’s truly expected from a radical librarian?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the essence of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the unique dynamics of radical librarianship,

You’ve come to the right place.

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

Let’s dive right into it.

Radical Librarian Duties and Responsibilities

Radical Librarians perform a myriad of tasks that aim to challenge and disrupt traditional librarianship, often focusing on social justice issues, information literacy, and diverse representation in library collections.

As Radical Librarians, their daily duties and responsibilities may include:

• Developing, maintaining, and improving library collections with a focus on diversity and representation
• Challenging the status quo in traditional librarianship, promoting more inclusive and diverse practices
• Creating and implementing programs and workshops that promote social justice, activism, and community involvement
• Advocating for the right to intellectual freedom and against censorship
• Providing information literacy education to patrons, with a focus on critical thinking skills
• Engaging with the local community to assess and meet their informational needs
• Collaborating with other librarians and organizations to promote radical librarianship initiatives
• Championing the use of open source and privacy-conscious technologies within the library
• Documenting and reporting on the impact of radical librarianship initiatives

 

Radical Librarian Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dynamic and innovative Radical Librarian to join our team.

This role encompasses traditional library tasks, while also challenging the typical understanding of a library’s role in the community.

The ideal candidate will be dedicated to facilitating learning and encouraging community engagement through literature, technology, and various forms of media.

A Radical Librarian responsibilities include curating diverse and inclusive collections, creating innovative programs for community engagement, and promoting digital literacy and open access.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage and curate diverse and inclusive collections that meet the needs of the community
• Create and implement innovative programs to promote literacy and learning
• Promote digital literacy and open access to information
• Engage with the community to understand their needs and provide relevant resources
• Organize and facilitate workshops, talks, and community events
• Advocate for intellectual freedom and privacy rights
• Collaborate with other librarians and institutions to share resources
• Maintain and update library catalog
• Provide reference and research assistance to library patrons

 

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Library Science or a related field
• Experience in a library setting
• Knowledge of library operations and administration
• Strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to engage with the community and facilitate learning
• Knowledge of digital resources and technology
• Commitment to intellectual freedom and privacy rights

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Radical Librarian
• Work Environment: Public or private library setting. Some weekend or evening hours may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Library Director or Chief Librarian.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $60,000 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 Radical Librarian Do?

Radical Librarians work in various libraries, including community libraries, university libraries, and digital libraries, but their scope of work extends far beyond traditional librarian duties.

Their primary role is to question and challenge the conventional practices and biases in library services to promote social justice and equity.

They often focus on the impact of neoliberalist policies and increasing corporatization on libraries and emphasize the democratic and open access nature of libraries.

They are involved in the organization, cataloging, and distribution of library resources, ensuring they do not perpetuate prejudices or discrimination.

They actively strive to include diverse materials in library collections, including works from marginalized or underrepresented communities.

Radical Librarians also actively work towards making libraries more accessible and inclusive spaces for all patrons, regardless of their socio-economic, racial, or cultural backgrounds.

They may organize community outreach programs, workshops, or seminars to raise awareness about various social issues.

Moreover, they often advocate for intellectual freedom, privacy rights, and oppose censorship in library materials and services.

They use their role to educate the library community on these important issues and work towards policy changes at an institutional level.

Digital rights and open access to information are also important concerns for radical librarians.

They fight against restrictive digital rights management policies and promote open-source, publicly accessible digital resources.

 

Radical Librarian Qualifications and Skills

A Radical Librarian combines traditional library duties with the advocacy for open access to information, challenging censorship, and promoting social issues within the library community.

The qualifications and skills required include:

• Comprehensive knowledge of library operations, including cataloging, book repair, and electronic resource management.
• Understanding of digital rights, copyright laws, and freedom of information principles to ensure the library’s resources are openly accessible.
• Strong communication skills to discuss and promote social issues within the library community, and to interact effectively with diverse patrons.
• Ability to advocate for library services that support marginalized communities and promote diversity and inclusion.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to build relationships and engage with library patrons, staff, and community stakeholders.
• Passion for social justice and equity to inform library programming and collection development.
• Problem-solving skills to address challenges such as budget limitations, censorship attempts, or community conflicts.
• Technological skills to utilize and instruct others in the use of digital resources and services, including digital privacy tools.
• Ability to design, implement, and evaluate outreach and educational programs that reflect the library’s radical values.

 

Radical Librarian Experience Requirements

Radical Librarians typically have a Master’s degree in Library Science or a similar field, where they gain both theoretical and practical experience.

They are experienced in traditional librarianship, including cataloging, research, and customer service.

Beyond that, they usually have several years of experience in the field, often through an internship or full-time role in a public, academic, or special library.

This role requires a deep understanding of not just library systems, but also of information activism, critical pedagogy, and digital rights management.

Radical Librarians with 1 to 2 years of experience are often seen in entry-level roles, where they begin to put their advocacy and activism skills into practice.

They may have experience working on community outreach, digital privacy initiatives, or other projects that push the boundaries of traditional librarianship.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have expanded their skills to include event planning, community organizing, and public speaking.

They may have experience with running workshops on digital rights, organizing book clubs around controversial topics, or advocating for the library’s role in social justice issues.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are likely to have taken on leadership roles within their library or community.

They may have led campaigns to change library policies, advocated for marginalized communities, or worked on large-scale projects that use the library as a force for social change.

At this stage, they may be ready to step into a managerial role or serve as a mentor to less experienced librarians.

 

Radical Librarian Education and Training Requirements

Radical Librarians typically have a bachelor’s degree in library science, information science, or a related field.

They also need a strong foundation in the principles of librarianship, including the organization, administration, and services of libraries.

A radical librarian not only understands traditional library roles but also engages in social justice issues and champions intellectual freedom.

Therefore, coursework in sociology, psychology, or political science can be beneficial.

Most radical librarians earn a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS).

These programs provide advanced study in the management and systems of libraries, as well as the role of libraries in communities.

In addition to these educational requirements, radical librarians often participate in ongoing professional development through webinars, workshops, and conferences to stay updated on library trends and issues.

As radical librarians work extensively with diverse populations, developing cultural competency skills and understanding of social justice issues are vital.

While not required, some radical librarians pursue certifications or additional training in specialized areas such as digital literacy, censorship, data privacy, or community outreach.

These additional qualifications can demonstrate a candidate’s commitment to the role and their dedication to continuing education and development.

 

Radical Librarian Salary Expectations

A Radical Librarian can expect to earn an average salary of $58,650 (USD) per year.

However, this figure can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, specialized knowledge, geographic location, and the specific institution that they work for.

 

Radical Librarian Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Radical Librarian need?

A Radical Librarian needs excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as they work directly with the public and often with various community groups.

They should have a broad knowledge of literature and information resources, and be comfortable with technology, as this role often involves digitization projects.

A strong commitment to social justice and advocacy is essential, as Radical Librarians often engage in activism relating to information access.

 

Do Radical Librarians need a degree?

While not always required, many Radical Librarians hold a master’s degree in Library Science (MLS) or Library and Information Science (MLIS).

However, the key requirement for this role is a strong commitment to the principles of social justice and intellectual freedom.

Some Radical Librarians also have backgrounds in activism, community organization, or other related fields.

 

What should you look for in a Radical Librarian’s resume?

In addition to library experience and education, look for evidence of community involvement, activism, or advocacy work.

Experience with diverse populations, knowledge of multiple languages, and any digital or technological skills are also a plus.

Finally, look for a demonstrated commitment to information access and social justice.

 

What qualities make a good Radical Librarian?

A good Radical Librarian is passionate about their work and committed to the principles of social justice.

They are creative, resourceful, and ready to challenge the status quo.

They build strong relationships with the community and are always seeking to increase access to information.

Finally, they are skilled at leveraging technology to improve library services and reach a wider audience.

 

What is the difference between a Radical Librarian and a Traditional Librarian?

While both roles involve managing and organizing information resources, Radical Librarians take a more activist approach.

They focus on issues like intellectual freedom, social justice, and information access, often working directly with underserved or marginalized communities.

In contrast, Traditional Librarians may focus more on tasks like cataloging, reference, and administration.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the real essence of being a radical librarian.

Surprised?

It’s not just about organizing books.

It’s about reshaping the information landscape, one resource at a time.

With our comprehensive radical librarian job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why limit yourself?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for creating meticulously crafted job listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every resource curated is part of a larger narrative.

Let’s reshape the information world. Together.

How to Become a Radical Librarian (Complete Guide)

Unique Career Quests: The Hunt for Unusual Jobs

Job Market Mojo: The Careers That Are Sizzling with Opportunity

The Toughest of the Tough: What Makes These Jobs So Stressful?

Go Remote, Get Rich: High-Paying Jobs You Can Do from Your Living Room!