Master's in Library Science Jobs, Opportunities, and Tips

Learn more about library science jobs for MLS and MLIS degree graduates

Career Paths for MLS and MLIS Degree Graduates

A Master’s in Library Science (MLS) or Master’s in Library & Information Science (MLIS) opens a variety of rewarding career paths across industries, from traditional library roles to specialized positions in corporate, healthcare, and digital asset management. This page covers career pathways for MLS graduates, including pre-degree roles to gain experience, high-paying opportunities, and tips for job hunting. We also explore the types of jobs that require an MLS degree, the states with the highest demand, and the roles with the best earning potential.

Pre-MLIS Degree Jobs That Offer Experience in Library Science

Before earning an MLS degree, gaining relevant experience in library science or information management can enhance employability and make the transition into professional roles smoother. Some entry-level roles in library settings don’t require a master’s degree but provide valuable exposure to the field.

Job Title	Description	Employers	Salary
Library Assistant	Library assistants work in public or academic libraries, helping patrons locate books, organizing materials, and supporting administrative functions. This role is ideal for building foundational skills and familiarizing yourself with library systems.	Schools, public libraries, bookstores, universities	$25,000 - $35,000
Library Technician	Technicians handle technical services like cataloging, interlibrary loans, and managing electronic resources. This role is more specialized than an assistant role and can lead to a deeper understanding of library operations.	Schools, public libraries, bookstores, universities	$30,000 - $40,000
Archivist Assistant	Working under the supervision of an archivist, archivist assistants help in preserving and organizing historical records, gaining experience in archival methods and preservation. This is especially beneficial for those interested in archival or special collections work.	Schools, public libraries, bookstores, universities, museums, nonprofits	$30,000 - $45,000

Opportunities for MLS and MLIS Graduates

Upon earning an MLS or MLIS degree, graduates are qualified for a range of roles that require advanced information management skills. Opportunities span various industries:

Academic Libraries
Academic librarians support research and manage collections in university libraries. MLS graduates can specialize as subject librarians, research support librarians, or digital content managers.

Public Libraries
Public librarians work directly with communities, managing library collections and organizing educational programs. This area offers opportunities to specialize in children’s services, teen services, or community outreach.

Corporate Libraries
In the corporate world, librarians manage proprietary data and research resources. Corporate librarians support business operations, competitive intelligence, and knowledge management, making this one of the highest-paying sectors for MLS graduates.

Digital Libraries and Archives
MLS graduates with skills in digital management can work in digital asset management, overseeing online collections, multimedia archives, and ensuring data integrity.

Healthcare and Law Libraries
Specialized roles like medical librarians and law librarians support healthcare providers and legal professionals with access to specialized research resources. These roles often command competitive salaries due to the need for specialized knowledge.

Tips for Finding Jobs with an MLIS Degree

Finding a job with an MLS degree involves strategic planning and networking. Here are some tips to boost your chances:

Leverage Professional Organizations
Joining organizations like the American Library Association (ALA) or the Special Libraries Association (SLA) provides access to networking events, job boards, and resources to help MLS graduates connect with potential employers.

Build Digital Skills
With the rise of digital resources, MLS graduates who are proficient in digital asset management, metadata creation, and digital curation stand out in the job market. Taking courses in digital library management can be an asset.

Gain Practical Experience Through Internships
Many MLS programs offer internships in libraries, archives, or corporate settings. These internships can lead to job offers post-graduation and are a great way to build industry connections.

Use Library Science Job Boards
Websites like INALJ (I Need a Library Job), Library Jobline, and specialized boards on ALA or SLA sites can help MLS graduates find job openings tailored to their expertise.

Consider Geographic Flexibility
Relocating to states with higher demand for library professionals or urban centers with large research institutions may increase job prospects and salary potential.

Types of Library Science Jobs that Require MLIS Degree

Many advanced roles in the library science field require a Master’s in Library Science (MLS) degree due to the specialized knowledge and skills needed. These positions typically demand expertise in research, digital resource management, and information organization, along with strong interpersonal skills to assist users. Below are some of the key roles where an MLS degree is essential for career success.

Reference Librarian
A reference librarian assists patrons by providing research support and guiding them through complex information resources. Working in academic, public, or special libraries, reference librarians help users locate books, journal articles, databases, and other materials for academic or personal research. They are skilled in search techniques and often conduct workshops on information literacy. Reference librarians need to be adept at evaluating information sources to ensure users have access to credible and relevant information.

Cataloging Librarian
Cataloging librarians are responsible for organizing and classifying library materials, from books and e-books to multimedia files and special collections. They use cataloging systems such as the Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) or Library of Congress Classification (LCC) to maintain order in the library and ensure resources are easily accessible to users. Cataloging librarians work meticulously to create metadata records for each item, making them searchable through the library’s catalog. This role requires a high level of attention to detail and proficiency with cataloging software and classification standards.

Digital Services Librarian
Digital services librarians manage a library’s digital resources, including online databases, digital archives, and multimedia collections. They ensure that users can access e-books, academic journals, and other digital content seamlessly. This role often involves curating digital collections, implementing electronic resource management (ERM) systems, and assisting patrons with accessing digital tools. Digital services librarians also stay up-to-date with emerging technologies and may collaborate with IT teams to troubleshoot issues and enhance the library’s digital offerings.

Archivist
Archivists play a crucial role in preserving historical documents, photographs, manuscripts, and other records of long-term value. They work in museums, government agencies, academic institutions, and cultural organizations. Archivists are responsible for organizing, cataloging, and protecting these materials to ensure they remain accessible to researchers and the public for years to come. An archivist’s duties include assessing the historical significance of materials, creating finding aids, and implementing preservation techniques for both physical and digital records. Strong archival skills are essential, as well as knowledge of preservation standards and digitization techniques.

Corporate Information Manager
Corporate information managers oversee the organization and retrieval of information within a company, ensuring employees have access to the data they need for strategic decision-making. This role is common in industries that rely on proprietary data, such as finance, technology, and healthcare. Corporate information managers create and maintain databases, enforce data governance policies, and may handle records compliance to ensure data privacy and security. They work closely with other departments to support knowledge management initiatives, making critical information readily available to improve business operations and enhance competitive advantage.

These roles showcase the variety of careers available to MLS graduates, each demanding specific expertise in information management, digital literacy, and organizational skills. Professionals in these positions play a key role in ensuring that information is accessible, well-organized, and preserved for future generations, making their work invaluable in today’s information-driven world.

Highest Paying Jobs for MLIS Degrees

While public and academic libraries offer rewarding roles, some of the highest-paying jobs for MLS graduates can be found outside traditional library settings, particularly in the corporate, healthcare, and digital sectors:

Job Title	Description	Salary
Library Director	The role of a library director is one of the highest leadership positions within a library. Directors are responsible for overseeing all library operations, from managing staff and budgets to setting strategic goals and policies. They work closely with library boards, community leaders, or university administrators to advocate for the library and secure funding. Library directors also play a key role in planning library expansions, implementing new technologies, and fostering community engagement. This role requires strong leadership, communication, and budgeting skills, as well as a thorough understanding of library operations and community needs.	$71,500 – $127,000
Head Librarian	A head librarian manages the day-to-day operations of a specific library branch or department, such as reference services, children’s services, or adult programming. They supervise staff, oversee collections, and ensure that library services meet community or institutional needs. Head librarians are also involved in planning and implementing library programs, managing budgets, and enhancing user experience. They often serve as the primary liaison between library staff and upper management, making organizational skills and people management abilities essential for this role. Head librarians typically have extensive experience in their specialization before moving into this role.	$60,000 – $94,500
Medical Librarian	Medical librarians work in healthcare settings such as hospitals, medical schools, or research institutions, providing access to critical medical information and resources. They manage collections of medical texts, journals, and databases, assisting healthcare professionals and researchers in finding reliable data for patient care or academic studies. Medical librarians often work directly with doctors, nurses, and researchers, performing literature reviews, assisting with clinical trial data, and supporting medical research initiatives. A strong understanding of medical terminology, database management, and research skills are essential for this role.	$64,500 – $95,000
Data Librarian	Data librarians specialize in organizing, managing, and preserving datasets within libraries or research institutions. They work extensively with data repositories, managing data lifecycle activities including acquisition, curation, and preservation of data resources. Data librarians often assist researchers in managing their datasets and ensuring compliance with data-sharing policies. They may also train staff and patrons on data analysis tools and best practices for data management. This role requires knowledge of metadata standards, data preservation techniques, and digital tools, making it a specialized and well-compensated position within academic or research libraries.	$54,500 – $95,000
Corporate Librarian	Corporate librarians work within private sector organizations, such as tech companies, law firms, and consulting agencies, where they manage proprietary information and support knowledge management. They provide research support for various business functions, organize information systems, and ensure that employees have access to necessary resources and databases. Corporate librarians often manage digital archives, oversee records compliance, and work on data privacy initiatives, aligning library resources with organizational goals. Their work helps streamline operations and improve data accessibility, making them valuable assets in corporate environments.	$64,000 – $118,000 According to Glassdoor

Internship Opportunities for MLS/MLIS Students and Graduates

Internships are a vital component of a Master’s in Library Science (MLS) or Master’s in Library & Information Science (MLIS) program, providing students with hands-on experience, practical skills, and professional connections that are invaluable for launching a successful career. Whether required as part of a program or pursued independently by graduates, internships offer exposure to the day-to-day responsibilities of library and information professionals while building resumes and networks. Here’s what you need to know about internship opportunities available to MLS/MLIS students and recent graduates:

Why Internships Matter for MLS/MLIS Students
Internships bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world practice. They allow students to apply their coursework—such as cataloging, research methods, or digital preservation—to real-life scenarios. Employers in library science fields often value practical experience as much as academic qualifications, making internships an essential part of career preparation. Additionally, internships help students identify their preferred career paths, whether in public libraries, academic settings, special collections, or corporate environments.

Required Internships in MLS/MLIS Programs
Many MLS/MLIS programs include internships as a graduation requirement, often tied to a capstone project or professional portfolio. Required internships typically involve 120 to 200 hours of supervised work and are usually completed over one or two semesters. These internships are carefully structured by academic advisors to align with a student’s area of specialization. For example:

Archival Studies: Internships may take place in government archives, historical societies, or university special collections, where students gain experience in organizing and preserving documents.
Children & Youth Services: Students often intern at public or school libraries, developing and leading literacy programs or youth engagement initiatives.
Digital Libraries: Internships might focus on metadata creation, digital resource management, or digitization projects in academic or corporate libraries.

Available Internship Opportunities for MLS/MLIS Students
Students and graduates also have access to optional internships that provide additional experience and expand professional networks. Prestigious institutions and organizations frequently offer internships tailored to library science professionals, such as:

The Library of Congress Internships: Opportunities to work with one of the world’s largest collections, gaining hands-on experience in cataloging, special collections, or preservation.
Smithsonian Institution Libraries: Interns assist with rare book collections, research projects, and exhibit preparation in a museum library setting.
Corporate Libraries: Companies such as Google, IBM, and law firms offer internships focusing on knowledge management, competitive intelligence, or research.
Medical Libraries: Hospitals or medical schools, such as Johns Hopkins or Mayo Clinic, offer internships in medical information management, supporting clinical research and patient care.
Public Libraries: Local and state library systems frequently provide internships in community programming, outreach, and literacy initiatives.

These internships vary in duration, ranging from a few weeks during the summer to semester-long or year-long commitments. Many are paid or provide stipends, especially in corporate or government settings, while others may offer academic credit.

Internship Opportunities for Recent Graduates 
For MLS/MLIS graduates, post-graduate internships offer opportunities to specialize further or gain experience in competitive fields. Some employers provide structured fellowships or residencies for recent graduates, including:

American Library Association (ALA) Spectrum Scholar Internships: For graduates from underrepresented groups, offering paid placements in diverse library settings.
Digital Humanities Fellowships: Focused on combining digital tools and library science skills for humanities research.
Corporate Knowledge Management Internships: Designed for graduates with an interest in proprietary data systems, compliance, and information governance.

Tips for Securing an Internship

Start Early: Research internship opportunities as soon as you begin your MLS/MLIS program. Many internships have competitive application processes.
Tailor Your Application: Highlight coursework, technical skills (e.g., database management or metadata standards), and any relevant volunteer or part-time library experience.
Leverage Networking: Attend events hosted by organizations like the American Library Association (ALA), Special Libraries Association (SLA), or local library associations to learn about available internships.
Use Job Boards: Websites like INALJ (I Need a Library Job) and ALA’s JobLIST are excellent resources for finding internships.
Explore Virtual Internships: Many organizations now offer remote opportunities for tasks such as metadata creation, digital curation, and research support.

Insights for MLIS Salary Growth

Graduating with an MLS or MLIS degree opens up a wealth of career opportunities in libraries, archives, and information management, as well as specialized industries like healthcare, law, media, and corporate organizations. Recent graduates often begin in entry-level positions, gaining foundational experience in traditional or digital information roles. These roles provide the opportunity to build expertise, gain certifications, and advance into specialized or leadership positions with competitive salaries.

MLS graduates can expect significant salary growth as they advance in their careers. Entry-level roles offer foundational experience, but with time, additional certifications, or by moving into specialized fields (such as medical librarianship or corporate information management), professionals can move toward higher pay brackets. For instance, medical librarians or corporate librarians typically see above-average growth potential due to the specialized skills and high-demand environments they work in.

Growth Potential and Long-Term Salary Expectations

For recent MLS/MLIS graduates, entry-level roles are just the beginning of a career trajectory with strong growth potential. Advancing into mid-level or senior roles often requires additional certifications, such as becoming a Certified Records Manager (CRM) or gaining expertise in digital preservation technologies. Leadership roles, such as library directors, heads of special collections, or corporate information managers, often come with six-figure salaries and additional responsibilities.

Additionally, geographic location plays a significant role in salary expectations. Graduates working in metropolitan areas like New York, California, Illinois, Massachusetts and other states often command higher salaries due to increased demand and cost of living, while rural areas may offer fewer opportunities but more affordable living conditions. For those willing to relocate, opportunities in high-paying states like California, Massachusetts, and New York can offer salaries at the top end of the range.