Public Librarian salary

Working as a Public Librarian

Being a public librarian means being a central part of the public library system. Public librarians work to promote reading, information retrieval, and culture in society. They handle public inquiries, organize library resources, and host events to engage and educate visitors. The profession requires a combination of organizational skills, customer service, and a passion for knowledge and learning.

Public Librarian Salary

What does a public librarian earn? On average, the salary for a public librarian is 36 100 SEK per month. There are slight differences between genders, with men earning an average of 36 400 SEK and women 36 100 SEK, meaning that women earn approximately 99% of what men do in this profession. Hourly public librarians have an average hourly wage of 217 SEK, based on 166 worked hours per month.

Salary Range for Public Librarians

The salary range for public librarians can vary depending on education and experience. The highest salary for a public librarian is 42200 SEK, belonging to a man with a postgraduate education in the municipal sector. On the female side, the highest salary is 40300 SEK. On the other hand, the lowest salary for a public librarian can be as low as 28700 SEK for a woman with pre-secondary education, while the lowest salary for a man is 29900 SEK.

Education and Qualifications

To work as a public librarian, a bachelor's degree in library and information science is usually required. Many librarians also choose to further their education with a master's degree to enhance their career prospects. The education focuses on information management, digital resources, and library services. Competence in IT and social media is also important as digital platforms become increasingly integrated into library services.

Working Conditions and Benefits

Public librarians typically work in municipal libraries, which means that the work environment is often stable and well-organized. Benefits may include flexible working hours, paid vacation, and access to training opportunities. Some libraries also offer the opportunity to participate in seminars and conferences to stay up to date with new trends and technologies in the library sector.

Future Outlook

According to labor market forecasts, job opportunities in librarianship and archiving are significant, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. However, there are recruitment difficulties, which may mean good chances for newly graduated librarians to quickly find work.

Challenges in the Profession

One challenge for public librarians is managing the increasing digitization of information and services. Librarians must be skilled in using and teaching digital tools and resources. Additionally, budget constraints in the public sector can affect access to the latest resources and technologies.

Job Competition

There is a paradoxical recruitment situation where, despite high demand, there is some unemployment and part-time work in the profession. This may partly be due to a lack of qualified applicants or limited opportunities in certain regions. For those willing to relocate or commute, however, this can mean good opportunities.

Summary of the Profession

As a public librarian, you work in a dynamic environment with a focus on promoting reading and education in society. The average salary is 36 100 SEK with some variations depending on gender and education level. Education in library and information science is central to the profession, and the future outlook appears stable despite some recruitment challenges. Public librarians play a vital role in supporting and developing the knowledge base of society, offering both challenges and rewards for those passionate about learning and information.