Children's librarian

What does a children's librarian do? – tasks and work environment

Children's librarians work on developing and customizing library services for children and youth. Tasks include planning and conducting storytime sessions, book discussions, literacy activities, and guiding both children and parents to appropriate literature. Contact with schools and preschools is central, as well as collaborations with other actors to promote children's reading and language development. The work environment is usually public, in municipal library settings, where flexibility and the ability to create a safe and engaging atmosphere for young visitors are crucial.

Salary development over time

The profession of children's librarian has experienced stable and positive salary growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,200 SEK, increasing in 2023 to 36 100 SEK and reaching 37 600 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.8 % over the period, surpassing inflation for the same years and indicating increased demand for the skill set. Salary increases can also be explained by higher requirements for specialization and pedagogical competence, as well as a greater focus on literacy-promoting efforts in society. Despite a relatively balanced gender distribution, a smaller salary gap favoring men persists, although the difference is low compared to many other professions.

Children's librarian salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 37 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 42,500 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 226 SEK
• Women: 37 400 SEK (98 % of men's salary)
• Men: 38 200 SEK
• Regional differences: Data missing/not significantly different reported

Education and qualifications

To work as a children's librarian, a degree in library and information science is generally required, often at the bachelor's level. Many employers also value pedagogical experience or additional courses focused on children's language development. Practical experience working with children is highly valued, as is the ability to communicate and engage with different age groups.

• Bachelor's degree in library and information science: 3 years
• Pedagogical courses or children's literature: Recommended as supplementary
• Internship or traineeship: Common component during education
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies
• Experience working with children: Meritorious during recruitment

Common benefits and compensations

Children's librarians in the public sector are generally offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, and generous vacation policies. Continuing education and professional development are encouraged, and flexible working hours are common. Some workplaces also offer subsidized lunches and the possibility of remote work for administrative tasks.

Competition and challenges

The job market for children's librarians is characterized by paradoxes: while there is a high demand for specialist skills, especially in larger municipalities and cities, competition for attractive positions can be intense. The shortage of substitutes and difficulties in recruiting for smaller towns are challenging. Digitalization and changing reading habits among children impose new demands on the profession, where the ability to work with digital resources and include various media is increasingly important. At the same time, high workloads during busy periods with many activities and visitors are reported, requiring good organizational skills.

Tips for those who want to become a children's librarian

To succeed as a children's librarian, it is helpful to be curious about children's different needs and developmental stages, as this aids in creating relevant and engaging activities. A strong pedagogical interest facilitates collaboration with schools and preschools, while good communication skills are essential for reaching both children and adults. Flexibility is needed to handle varied tasks, and creativity is appreciated in designing literacy-promoting projects. Patience and a responsive attitude increase the chances of building trust and creating positive library experiences for young visitors.

Key facts about Children's Librarian

• Educational level: Bachelor's degree in library and information science
• Work environment: Municipal libraries, often in teams
• Work form: Full-time, some part-time and hourly employment
• Demand: 620 job openings nationally
• Special skills: Children's literature, pedagogy, digital media

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a children's librarian can develop into a coordinator for children's and youth activities, a project leader for literacy initiatives, or take on a more overarching role as a librarian with responsibility for digital services. Some pursue further education in pedagogy or leadership to take on managerial roles within the library sector. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate significant opportunities for employment in the profession, although demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. At the same time, recruitment challenges and high demand for the right skills are anticipated, especially in smaller municipalities and rural areas.

Common questions about Children's Librarian

• What does a children's librarian earn?
  - A children's librarian has an average monthly salary of 37 600 SEK.
• What education is required to become a children's librarian?
  - A bachelor's degree in library and information science is standard, preferably supplemented with pedagogical courses.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 98 % of what men do in the profession.
• What is the job market like for children's librarians?
  - Demand is high, and there are currently 620 job openings nationally within the profession.
• What are the most common job duties?
  - Planning and conducting activities for children, guiding in literature selection, and collaborating with schools.
• What is the highest salary for a children's librarian?
  - The highest known salary is 42,500 SEK per month, applicable to a woman with research qualifications in the public sector.
• Are there opportunities for further education?
  - Yes, many employers encourage further training in areas such as pedagogy, digital tools, and project management.