What does a Book Bus Librarian do? – Tasks and Work Environment
Book Bus Librarians work to make library services and resources accessible outside the fixed library buildings, often by driving and staffing a book bus that visits schools, preschools, nursing homes, and other locations where access to a library might otherwise be limited. Tasks include lending and returning books and media, organizing programs, assisting with information searches, and providing educational support to borrowers of all ages. Book Bus Librarians also plan routes, maintain the bus's collection, and collaborate with colleagues at the main library. The work environment is characterized by mobility, diverse workplaces, and a high degree of independence, with interaction with people being central to the role.
Salary Development Over Time
The salary for a Book Bus Librarian has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,200 SEK per month, rising to 36 100 SEK in 2023 and further to 37 600 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of about 6.8% over three years. This positive trend can be partly explained by increased demand for library services in rural areas and efforts to improve accessibility to literature and knowledge for more groups in society. Salary development has also been influenced by general investments in the library sector and competition for qualified librarians, which has driven wages slightly faster than the average for similar professions. Despite this, the salary for a Book Bus Librarian remains close to the average for the librarian and archivist profession.
Book Bus Librarian Salary – Complete Overview
- Average salary: 37 600 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 31,100 SEK/month (male, public sector, secondary education)
- Highest salary: 42,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, postgraduate education)
- Hourly wage: 226 SEK
- Women: 37 400 SEK/month (98% of men's salary)
- Men: 38 200 SEK/month
- Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on municipality and county, but differences are generally small.
Education and Qualifications
To work as a Book Bus Librarian, a university degree in Library and Information Science is generally required, often combined with pedagogical skills and a B driver's license. Practical experience in libraries and good service skills are advantageous, as well as the ability to work independently and adapt to varied work environments.
- Bachelor's degree: Library and Information Science, 3 years
- Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies, sometimes specific requirements for Swedish language skills
- Certifications: B driver's license required for driving the book bus
- Internship: Often included during education
- Courses: Pedagogy and digital skills are advantageous
Working as a Book Bus Librarian often involves building strong relationships with repeat borrowers and creating personal encounters with literature. The profession offers a unique opportunity to reach people who otherwise find it difficult to visit a traditional library and to contribute to increased reading enthusiasm and inclusion in society.
Common Benefits and Compensation
Book Bus Librarians are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days, professional development, and pension contributions according to collective agreements. Some employers also offer flexitime, subsidized lunches, and opportunities for further training in digital services or children’s and youth literature. Compensation for unsociable working hours may be provided for evening or weekend work.
Challenges and Competition
The job market for Book Bus Librarians is characterized by a paradox: despite recruitment difficulties, unemployment within the profession is relatively high, and many work part-time or leave the profession after a few years. Demand for Book Bus Librarians is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years according to the Swedish Public Employment Service, even though there are many available positions nationwide. Challenges include working independently, managing varied work environments, and meeting borrowers with different needs and backgrounds. Competition for permanent positions can be fierce, especially in larger cities, while opportunities are good in smaller municipalities and rural areas.
Tips for Aspiring Book Bus Librarians
To succeed as a Book Bus Librarian, it’s beneficial to combine social skills with a genuine interest in literature and community education. Flexibility and the ability to work independently are crucial, as workplaces often change and tasks vary. A driver’s license is essential, so plan for this early in your education. Good pedagogical skills facilitate interaction with different age groups, and being proactive is important to adapt activities to borrowers’ needs. Technical knowledge and digital skills are also valuable, especially given the digital services offered by libraries. Building relationships and providing excellent service are qualities that help thrive and develop in the profession.
Key Facts About Book Bus Librarians
- Education level: Bachelor's degree in Library and Information Science
- Work environment: Mobile, varied workplaces and interactions with borrowers
- Typical employment: Public sector, full-time or part-time
- Demand: 620 available jobs nationwide
- Special skills: B driver's license and digital competence
Career Paths and Future Prospects
After three to five years as a Book Bus Librarian, opportunities include advancing to roles such as coordinator for the book bus service, project leader for reading promotion activities, or further specialization in children’s and youth literature. It is also common to transition to other roles within the library sector, such as librarian at a main library, school library, or within digital development. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, job opportunities are plentiful within the profession, but demand is expected to remain stable over the next five years. The recruitment situation involves both available positions and some competition, especially in metropolitan areas.
Frequently Asked Questions about Book Bus Librarians
- What does a Book Bus Librarian earn?
- The average salary is 37 600 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 226 SEK.
- What education is required to become a Book Bus Librarian?
- A bachelor's degree in Library and Information Science and B driver's license are most common.
- Are there many job openings for Book Bus Librarians?
- There are approximately 620 available jobs nationwide within the librarian and archivist profession.
- How has the salary development for Book Bus Librarians progressed?
- Salaries have increased from 35,200 SEK in 2022 to 37 600 SEK in 2024, an increase of nearly 7%.
- What personal qualities are important for a Book Bus Librarian?
- Social skills, flexibility, pedagogical ability, and a service mindset are central qualities.
- Are there gender differences in salary?
- Yes, women earn 98% of men's salaries in the profession.
- What is the work environment like for Book Bus Librarians?
- The work environment is mobile and varied, with many interactions with borrowers in different settings.
