Children's Librarians
Overview
Introduction
Childrens librarians oversee the daily operations of the childrens department of public and private libraries and school libraries. They purchase books, periodicals, music and films, and other informational material, and prepare them for circulation. Childrens librarians also serve as instructors and mentors to students. In addition, they conduct activities to introduce children to different types of literature. These activities include story time, reading challenges, book discussions, and outreach projects. Children’s librarians ma...
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
Salaries for childrens librarians depend on such factors as the size, location, and type of library; the responsibilities of the position; and the amount of experience the librarian has. Mean annual earnings for librarians who worked at elementary and secondary schools were $71,800 in May 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Librarians who worked in local government-funded libraries...
Work Environment
Most childrens librarians work a 40-hour week, with hours scheduled depending on the operational time of the main library or school. Some librarians prefer to work part time. The work environment, whether at a library or school, is comfortable and pleasant. Libraries, especially those designated for children, are usually colorfully decorated with many workspaces and cozy reading nooks. Most lib...
Outlook
The U.S. Department of Labor predicts that employment for librarians who work in public elementary and secondary schools will decline through 2032. Job opportunities for librarians who work at private elementary and secondary schools will grow faster than the average for all careers, but its important to remember that there are far fewer openings at private schools and that competition for thes...