Librarian salary

Occupational Profile: Librarian

Librarians play a central role in managing and providing access to information resources. They often work in public and school libraries, but can also be found in special libraries in businesses, research institutions, and public administration. Their tasks include everything from cataloging books and digital media to assisting visitors with information needs and organizing events that promote reading and learning.

Salary Statistics for Librarians

The average salary for a librarian in Sweden is currently 35 200 SEK per month. The gender pay gap is relatively small, with men earning an average of 35 700 SEK and women earning 35 000 SEK, meaning that women earn 98% of what men do. Compared to the previous year, the average salary has increased from 34 400 SEK to 35 200 SEK, indicating a positive salary trend in the profession.

Education and Requirements for Working as a Librarian

To work as a librarian, a academic education in library and information science is usually required. This education is typically available at universities and colleges, with programs usually spanning three years at the undergraduate level. For those looking to deepen their knowledge, there are also opportunities for master's studies. Important subjects in the education include information management, digital information resources, and knowledge of how to organize and manage collections.

Key Qualities and Skills

A successful librarian should have excellent organizational skills, be service-oriented, and have good IT skills. Since the profession often involves a lot of customer interaction, good communication skills and the ability to pedagogically convey information are also important. Knowledge of multiple languages can be an advantage, especially in multicultural areas.

Job Market and Future Outlook

The job market for librarians is relatively stable. Public and school libraries constantly need qualified staff to manage both traditional and digital information resources. Additionally, the demand for librarians in specialized areas such as legal, medical, or technical libraries is increasing. The future prospects look bright, especially for those willing to specialize or take on roles that require a high level of digital competence.

Considerations

For those considering a career as a librarian or seeking employment in this field, it is important to be aware that the profession may involve varying work hours, including evenings and weekends, especially within the framework of public libraries. It is also advantageous to have a passion for books, learning, and assisting others with information needs.

Benefits in the Profession

Some employers offer benefits such as paid further education, which can be particularly attractive in a profession where continuous updating of skills is important. Other benefits may include flexible working hours and the possibility of partial remote work, contributing to a better work-life balance.