Resume Example
Librarian Resume Example
Emphasize information literacy, collection strategy, and community programming. This sample focuses on access and engagement.
Classic Professional
Traditional single-column ATS-optimized layout. Best for conservative industries.
Keywords
Sample bullets
- Expanded circulation by 18% through targeted acquisitions and student interest surveys.
- Delivered 40+ information literacy sessions with 95% teacher satisfaction.
- Reduced cataloging backlog by 35% by streamlining metadata workflows.
Soft skills
- Instructional support
- Organization
- Community engagement
- Communication
Certifications
- MLIS
- State media specialist certification
Why this works
- Shows measurable increases in circulation and engagement.
- Highlights instructional support and research guidance.
- Demonstrates effective resource management.
Step-by-Step Guide
How to Write a Librarian Resume
Highlight Library Science Expertise
Feature MLS/MLIS degree, certifications, and years of experience. Include library types (academic, public, school, special) and collection focus.
Showcase Collection Development
Demonstrate experience with collection analysis, acquisition, and weeding. Include budget management and collection growth metrics.
Quantify Patron Services
Use metrics like circulation increases, program attendance, and reference transactions. Show patron satisfaction and engagement improvements.
Include Technology and Digital Services
Highlight experience with ILS systems, databases, digital resources, and emerging technologies. Include website management and digital literacy instruction.
Demonstrate Information Literacy Instruction
Include experience teaching research skills, developing guides, and supporting curriculum. Show assessment of learning outcomes.
Summary Examples
Good vs. Bad Resume Summaries
“MLIS-credentialed Academic Librarian with 8 years at R1 university. Manage $500K acquisitions budget and 100K+ volume collection. Increased database usage by 40% through instruction program reaching 3,000 students annually. Published 5 peer-reviewed articles on information literacy.”
Shows credential, budget responsibility, instruction reach, and scholarship.
“Public Library Director serving community of 50,000. Grew circulation 25% and program attendance 60% over 3 years. Secured $200K grant for makerspace and STEM programming. Led successful levy campaign increasing funding by $300K annually.”
Community service scale, growth metrics, grant success, and advocacy.
“Librarian with MLS and experience in reference and cataloging. Good customer service skills.”
Too generic, no metrics, doesn't show impact or specialization.
“Library assistant seeking librarian position. Pursuing MLS degree part-time.”
Shows intent but no librarian experience or completed credential.
Action Verbs
Power Words for Librarian Resumes
Common Mistakes
What to Avoid
- ✗Not listing MLS/MLIS and certifications prominently
- ✗Missing collection size and budget responsibilities
- ✗Omitting circulation and usage metrics
- ✗Being vague about instruction and programming
- ✗Not showing technology and database expertise
- ✗Missing patron satisfaction and community impact
Salary ranges
| Level | US | EU | Canada |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | USD 39,000-43,000 | EUR 26,900-29,600 | CAD 45,200-49,800 |
| Mid | USD 51,000-64,000 | EUR 35,100-44,100 | CAD 59,100-74,200 |
| Senior | USD 65,000-95,000 | EUR 44,800-65,500 | CAD 75,400-110,100 |
Market themes
- Technology integration is now a core expectation
US hot markets
- California
- Massachusetts
- New Jersey
- New York
- Connecticut
EU hot markets
- London
- Dublin
- Amsterdam
Canada hot markets
- Toronto
- Vancouver
FAQ
Common questions about this role
What should librarians emphasize?
Information literacy, access to resources, and community programming outcomes.
Which tools matter most?
Library management systems, cataloging tools, and digital databases.
Related Roles
More Education Examples
Beyond Templates
Templates are so 2015
Static templates give everyone the same look. Our Resume Studio uses AI to dynamically generate a completely unique resume for every job—personalized to your style, your experience, and the role you're targeting. No two resumes are ever the same.