How to Become a Digital Collection Librarian
Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Digital Collection Librarian
What does a Digital Collection Librarian do?
A Digital Collection Librarian maintains a library's digital collection of books, serials, documents, audiovisuals, or other materials, and assists groups and individuals in locating, obtaining and using materials. Trains others in the creation or preservation of digital resources and the use of the library's digital system(s). Being a Digital Collection Librarian is responsible for the library's open source projects and procures licenses for digital content. Interacts with IT staff in selecting/developing, implementing and maintaining the library's technical infrastructure. Additionally, Digital Collection Librarian requires a master's degree in library science from an ALA-accredited school in a related field. Typically reports to a director. The Digital Collection Librarian manages subordinate staff in the day-to-day performance of their jobs. True first level manager. Ensures that project/department milestones/goals are met and adhering to approved budgets. Has full authority for personnel actions. To be a Digital Collection Librarian typically requires 5 years experience in the related area as an individual contributor. 1 - 3 years supervisory experience may be required. Extensive knowledge of the function and department processes.
As a member of the Digital Initiatives Scholarship Department, the Digital Collections Librarian will provide strategic and innovative leadership for the burgeoning digital asset management and preservation program of the Swarthmore College Libraries.
The Digital Collections Librarian will be responsible for the planning, operations, and management of this program, and will manage the lifecycle of our digital assets and projects, from the acquisition or creation of digital objects to their long-term preservation.
The Digital Collections Librarian will also play a vital role in collaborative processes to evaluate, select, and implement software solutions that support our digital assets.
This position will serve as a member of a team of librarians and staff committed to effectively managing, accessing and preserving the Libraries’ expanding digital collections, including serving as point person for outreach to faculty, staff and students in the implementation of a digital repository system.
The Digital Content Management Section is responsible for providing digital acquisitions support to Library Services, and for the lifecycle management of digital collections that are not otherwise under the care of a custodial division.
Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Digital Collection Librarian
Best tips for those who want to become a Digital Collection Librarian
Here are some tips to become a Digital Collection Librarian.
Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Digital Collection Librarian
Best colleges and universities for Digital Collection Librarian
- Butler University
- Carroll College
- High Point University
- Princeton University
- Providence College
- Rollins College
Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Digital Collection Librarian
Is being a Digital Collection Librarian Worth it?
As the digital age meant that fewer visitors came to The Paley Center’s Beverly Hills location looking to watch archival footage, the focus of the building turned to more TV-related exhibits, as well as industry events.
It's available on all of our digital ebooks and you can pair it with the margins, spacing, and background color you need.
They are free and include classes on digital preservation so you won't lose all your personal information, and usually also have free equipment you can use to digitize VHS, audiocassettes, and scan old family photos and documents." —Erin P.
"Librarians can help you find the answers to really bizarre questions without judgment.
From digital archives, to religious studies, to national libraries, these university libraries from around the world have plenty of information for you.
Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Digital Collection Librarian
What skills do you need to be a Digital Collection Librarian?
A manager is often judged based on the success of their team and those working below them, as such, many skills are needed. Success in this role depends on a critical ability in the following: Cross-Functional Integration, Document Archiving, Licensing Management, Project Management, Information Curation, Cataloging Schemas, Rules and Systems, Create Metadata Records, Library Cataloging, Metadata Standards, Cataloging Special Collections. Experience in the following is fundamental to this role: Library Management Software. Skills may vary from job-to-job, but these skills are the ones most commonly associated with this role.
2 years’ experience working with digital collections or archives.
Ability to plan and carry out digital content management projects.
Critical skills include leadership for the library’s collection development activities, knowledge of the trends in Scholarly Communication, the ability to function effectively in a team environment, flexibility and the capacity to embrace change in a dynamic and evolving organization, and a facility for cross-departmental communications.
Collection development experience; experience with library technical activities.
Step 6: View average salary for Digital Collection Librarian
How much does a Digital Collection Librarian make?
The average salary range for a Digital Collection Librarian is from $52,262 to $71,483. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.
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Average salary for Digital Collection Librarian jobs
Step 7: Find relevant Digital Collection Librarian jobs, and apply.
Looking for Digital Collection Librarian jobs?
Here are some Digital Collection Librarian jobs in the United States.