How to Write a Librarian Resume – with Sample

Are you wondering how to make your librarian resume stand out to recruiters?

Writing a resume takes research, attention to detail and organization. These are skills you employ daily when you conduct your audits on inventories, sort catalog resources and help people locate the books they need.

Writing an effective librarian resume requires the same skills. These, along with you a few simple resume hacks, will help you tell a powerful story of your career to prospective employers.

Make an Impact from the First Sentence

Firstly, while we never say to judge a book by its cover, when it comes to creating the perfect resume, remember that recruiters don’t have the same time as your average book reader. Therefore, your resume must give them all the necessary information in the most concise and effective way possible. Using a clear structure is the best way to do this.

Quantify Your Achievements

Demonstrating your value is just as important as showing your passion and enthusiasm. Use numbers to prove your achievements. For example, share relevant metrics, like the number of:

• average visits
• registered borrowers
• sections you’ve managed
• events you’ve organized

Librarian Skills: Resume Must-Haves

Enrich your resume with the relevant keywords, so it will catch the attention and pass any digital screening software. But how do you choose the right ones? Simple, use the job listing as a guide.

Some of the most sought-after skills recruiters want to see in librarians are:

• excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• ability to effectively manage multiple priorities
• analytical and organizational skills
• ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• flexibility
• knowledge of library management software

Librarian Resume Example

JOHN LEWIS

Seattle, WA 98101 | (555) 555-5555 | name@mail.com | linkedin.com/john.lewis

Librarian with 10 years’ experience skilled in managing library operations and providing excellent customer service to patrons. Advanced knowledge of 10 library systems tools, cataloging, and collection development. Strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and passion for promoting literacy allowed me to create 200+ library events and programs. Able to effectively collaborate with colleagues and engage with library users to meet their needs. Committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all patrons and bringing a positive and enthusiastic attitude to my work every day.

SKILLS

• Extensive knowledge of library policies, procedures, and practices
• Strong research and information retrieval skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Proficient in library management software and digital databases
• Experience in collection development and acquisitions
• Skilled in designing and implementing library programs and events
• Training and mentorship
• Time management

EXPERIENCE

Library One, Seattle, WA 20XX to Present

Librarian

• Provide research assistance and reference services to patrons
• Develop and maintain the library's collection, including print and digital resources with tools such as Ex Libris Voyager, Alexandria, Mandarin, Atriuum ILS and Jotform
• Organize and conduct 100+ library programs and 50+ events and increased average attendance by 35%
• Increased the number of active library card holders by 25%
• Train and supervise 20 library staff and volunteers
• Manage the library's budget and oversee the acquisition of new materials

Library Two, Seattle, WA 20XX to 20XX

Library Assistant

• Assisted patrons in the use of library resources and services
• Maintained the library's collection by shelving materials and performing inventory checks with Destiny Library Manager, Sierra ILS, SirsiDynix Symphony, LibraryWorld and Alma.
• Created and presented 50+ story times for children
• Assisted with 70 library programs and 25 events

EDUCATION

University One, Seattle, WA 20XX

Master of Library and Information Science

University Two, Seattle, WA 20XX

Bachelor of Arts in English

CERTIFICATIONS

Librarian Certification One, Organization One, 20XX

References: Available upon request.

Now that you’re all set for your librarian resume, why not start thinking about your librarian cover letter as well?

Librarian Job Prospects

Contrary to what many might think, librarian jobs are not going anywhere. The projected growth rate for this profession is staying at a stable 6% over the next ten years with around 14,900 openings added every year.

Librarians are employed in a variety of settings. If you want to secure a job faster, look into one of the industries with the highest number of librarian positions. These include:

• elementary and secondary schools
• local government
• colleges, universities, and professional schools
• web search portals, libraries, archives, and other information services

How Much You Could Earn

As a librarian you can expect to bring home $49,102 per year on average. However, based on various factors such as your sector, the experience on your librarian resume, and your location you could make more than that.

For instance, the following are the top-paying industries for librarians and their wages per year:

• federal executive branch: $97,780
• scientific research and development services: $85,020
• legal services: $83,570
• management of companies and enterprises: $79,240
• grantmaking and giving services: $77,580

Similarly, the metropolitan areas that pay librarians the most are:

• Seattle, WA: $94,220 per year
• San Francisco, CA: $90,190 per year
• San Jose, CA: $89,600 per year
• Olympia, WA: $88,950 per year
• Kennewick, WA: $88,300 per year

Curious to know how much you could be making in your area? Head to Monster’s Salary Page. Enter your city and “librarian” as a job title and voilà! The best part? You’ll also find salary details for comparable positions, along with ideas for career advancements.

Write a Librarian Resume Worth Reading

Want more resume advice? Get a free resume assessment from Monster. Our resume-scanning technology will provide you with detailed feedback. You’ll learn how to sell your unique skills and experiences. Plus, we’ll help you enrich your resume with the right keywords for librarians.