Library Consultant

What does a library consultant do? – Tasks and work environment

Library consultants work to develop, support, and coordinate library activities at regional or municipal levels. The role often involves acting as a link between different libraries, focusing on professional development, advisory services, and project management. Tasks can include conducting training sessions, initiating and following up on development projects, and providing expert advice on library issues to decision-makers and colleagues. The work environment is usually varied and may include both office work and travel to different libraries or conferences, requiring flexibility and good communication skills.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for library consultants has shown stable and positive growth. In 2022, the average salary was 35,200 SEK per month, increasing the following year to 36 100 SEK, which corresponds to a raise of approximately 2.6%. Between 2023 and 2024, the salary further increased to 37 600 SEK, a growth of 4.2%. This development reflects an increased demand for qualified library consultants, especially in the public sector where competencies in digitalization and project management have become increasingly important. Higher education levels and increased specialization also contribute to rising salary levels within the profession.

Library Consultant salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 37 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,100 SEK/month (male, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 42,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage: 226 SEK
• Women: 37 400 SEK (98% of men's salary)
• Men: 38 200 SEK
• Regional differences: Data varies, but larger cities tend to offer slightly higher salaries

Education and qualifications

To work as a library consultant, a university degree in library and information science is usually required, often supplemented with experience from the library sector or project management. Many employers also value further education in areas such as pedagogy, digitalization, or leadership. Practical experience in development work and strong communication skills are important merits.

• Formal degree: Bachelor's degree (3 years) or master's/magister (1–2 years additional) in library and information science
• Further education: Courses in project management, digitalization, pedagogy
• Internship: Work experience from public or special libraries is advantageous
• Prerequisites: Basic university eligibility and specific requirements for the program
• Tips for choosing: Combine studies with internships and participate in networks to increase employability

Common benefits and compensations

Library consultants are often offered benefits such as generous vacation policies, wellness allowances, professional development, and flexible working hours. In the public sector, pension contributions and study leave may also be available. Some employers additionally offer subsidized lunches or the option to work partly remotely.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a library consultant can be intense, especially since the number of roles is limited compared to broader librarian professions. Many positions require extensive experience and specialized skills in development work or digitalization, which can make it difficult for recent graduates to establish themselves immediately. At the same time, recruitment difficulties are reported due to a shortage of qualified candidates with the right profile. The profession demands independence, initiative, and the ability to collaborate across organizational boundaries, which can be challenging but also rewarding for the right person.

Tips for those aspiring to become a library consultant

To succeed as a library consultant, it is beneficial to combine analytical ability with a strong commitment to development issues. Building a network within the library sector and participating in projects during studies increases the chances of entering the profession. The ability to work independently and take initiative is crucial, as is being communicative and pedagogical when interacting with colleagues and decision-makers. Staying updated on digital trends and new pedagogical methods provides an advantage, and demonstrating flexibility and adaptability is valuable in a changing work environment. Finally, patience and perseverance are important, as the path to a library consultant position often involves several years of experience in the library sector.

Key facts about Library Consultant

• Education level: Bachelor's degree or higher in library and information science
• Work environment: Varied, including both office work and travel to libraries
• Work setting: Public sector, often regional or municipal employment
• Demand: Good, with 620 job openings within the profession
• Special skills: Project management, digitalization, pedagogy

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a library consultant, opportunities exist to advance to leadership roles such as development manager, library director, or project leader for larger regional initiatives. Many also choose to specialize in areas like digitalization, reading promotion, or professional development. According to the Employment Service's forecasts, the prospects for employment within the 'librarians and archivists' profession are good, with ample job opportunities and demand expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. However, the recruitment situation is characterized by a paradox where there are both recruitment difficulties and some turnover, which can open doors for new candidates.

Frequently asked questions about Library Consultant

• What does a Library Consultant earn?
  - The average salary is 37 600 SEK per month, but it varies depending on experience, education, and sector.
• How to become a Library Consultant?
  - Usually requires a bachelor's or higher degree in library and information science along with experience from the library sector.
• Are there regional salary differences for Library Consultants?
  - Yes, salaries tend to be slightly higher in larger cities and regions with bigger libraries.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a Library Consultant?
  - The highest salary is 42,500 SEK and the lowest is 31,100 SEK per month, depending on education, experience, and sector.
• What personal qualities are important for a Library Consultant?
  - Independence, communication skills, initiative, and pedagogical ability are especially important.
• What are the future prospects for Library Consultants?
  - Demand is expected to remain good, and job opportunities are plentiful according to the Employment Service.
• What benefits are common for Library Consultants?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowances, professional development, and flexible working hours.