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Special library librarian vs public services librarian

The differences between special library librarians and public services librarians can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 1-2 years to become both a special library librarian and a public services librarian. Additionally, a special library librarian has an average salary of $52,343, which is higher than the $49,867 average annual salary of a public services librarian.

The top three skills for a special library librarian include library services, professional development and library resources. The most important skills for a public services librarian are library services, collection development, and reference services.

Special library librarian vs public services librarian overview

Special Library LibrarianPublic Services Librarian
Yearly salary$52,343$49,867
Hourly rate$25.16$23.97
Growth rate6%6%
Number of jobs12,47762,620
Job satisfaction--
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 57%Bachelor's Degree, 46%
Average age4848
Years of experience22

Special library librarian vs public services librarian salary

Special library librarians and public services librarians have different pay scales, as shown below.

Special Library LibrarianPublic Services Librarian
Average salary$52,343$49,867
Salary rangeBetween $37,000 And $72,000Between $35,000 And $70,000
Highest paying CitySan Francisco, CASanta Rosa, CA
Highest paying stateAlaskaAlaska
Best paying companyNorthern California Power AgencyYale University
Best paying industry-Education

Differences between special library librarian and public services librarian education

There are a few differences between a special library librarian and a public services librarian in terms of educational background:

Special Library LibrarianPublic Services Librarian
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 57%Bachelor's Degree, 46%
Most common majorLibrary ScienceLibrary Science
Most common collegeUniversity of Maryland - College ParkNew York University

Special library librarian vs public services librarian demographics

Here are the differences between special library librarians' and public services librarians' demographics:

Special Library LibrarianPublic Services Librarian
Average age4848
Gender ratioMale, 35.4% Female, 64.6%Male, 41.9% Female, 58.1%
Race ratioBlack or African American, 6.4% Unknown, 3.6% Hispanic or Latino, 7.8% Asian, 4.9% White, 77.0% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.3%Black or African American, 6.4% Unknown, 3.6% Hispanic or Latino, 7.8% Asian, 4.9% White, 77.1% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.3%
LGBT Percentage16%16%

Differences between special library librarian and public services librarian duties and responsibilities

Special library librarian example responsibilities.

  • Achieve proficiency cataloging electronic materials (audio records, video recordings, and streaming video) and continuing resources/serials.
  • Achieve proficiency cataloging electronic materials (audio records, video recordings, and streaming video) and continuing resources/serials.
  • Provide client services such as inter-library loans, ordering of new materials and instruction on use of library OPAC.

Public services librarian example responsibilities.

  • Manage integrated library system including OPAC, serials control, cataloging and acquisitions.
  • Perform original and copy cataloging of new acquisitions.
  • Perform various technical services including cataloging, weeding, and authority control.
  • Provide opportunities for students to use the library for class-relate research, individual investigation, independent reading, and personal inquiry.
  • Provide client services such as inter-library loans, ordering of new materials and instruction on use of library OPAC.

Special library librarian vs public services librarian skills

Common special library librarian skills
  • Library Services, 16%
  • Professional Development, 10%
  • Library Resources, 9%
  • Collection Development, 9%
  • Library Science, 8%
  • Reference Services, 7%
Common public services librarian skills
  • Library Services, 15%
  • Collection Development, 10%
  • Reference Services, 9%
  • Library Policies, 8%
  • Technical Publications, 7%
  • Technical Manuals, 6%

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