Corporate Librarian

What does a corporate librarian do? – Tasks and work environment

A corporate librarian works with organizing, managing, and making information accessible within organizations and companies. Tasks often involve supporting operations with qualified information retrieval, managing databases, developing digital library solutions, and training staff in information management. The role also includes evaluating and negotiating licenses for digital resources, as well as ensuring information security and compliance with data protection laws. The work environment is usually office-based and characterized by close collaboration with other professional groups within the organization, such as IT, HR, and management. Digitalization and technological development have led to advanced tools, and many tasks are performed in digital environments.

Salary development over time

The salary for a corporate librarian has shown a stable and positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,200 SEK per month, increasing to 36 100 in 2023. The latest figure for 2024 indicates an average salary of 37 600, representing an increase of about 7% over three years. The salary growth can be explained by increased demand for digital information skills, while fewer are being educated in the field, creating competition for qualified workers. The increasing complexity of tasks and the requirements for specialization have also contributed to higher wages. However, the pace of salary increases is somewhat lower than for some other academic professions, reflecting the large share of public sector employers in the field.

Corporate librarian salary – comprehensive 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 earn: 37 400 SEK (98% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 38 200 SEK
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region, with slightly higher wages in metropolitan areas and lower in smaller towns.

Education and qualifications

To work as a corporate librarian, a university degree in library and information science is usually required, often with a focus on digital services and information management. Many employers also seek experience with digital systems, project management, and some specialization in corporate environments. Internships or trainee positions during studies are common, and additional courses in IT, information security, or business systems can be advantageous.

• Formal degree: Bachelor's in library and information science (3 years)
• Further education: Master's degree (1–2 years) can provide advantages in specialization
• Certifications: Courses in digital information management and data protection are in demand
• Internships: Internship periods or trainee programs during studies are common
• Prerequisites: Basic university eligibility and interest in digital tools

Common benefits and compensations

Corporate librarians are often offered benefits such as flexible working hours, wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and opportunities for remote work. Access to professional development and further training is common, especially in larger organizations. Company pensions and subsidized lunches may also be provided, depending on the employer.

Competition and challenges

The job market for corporate librarians is relatively competitive, but the demand for digital information competence is steadily increasing. A challenge is that the profession is often part of broader job groups, which can make it harder to stand out during recruitment. The recruitment situation is characterized by a paradox: while many positions are vacant, there are also high demands for specialization, digital skills, and sometimes project management. Additionally, employers often require experience in change management and adaptability to new technological solutions. Staying updated on digitalization and information security is crucial to remain attractive on the job market.

Tips for aspiring corporate librarians

To succeed as a corporate librarian, it is helpful to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in digital development. Being meticulous and organized facilitates handling and efficiently organizing large amounts of information. Communication skills are important to support colleagues and translate technical solutions into useful tools. A proactive approach helps identify new needs and improve information flows. Flexibility and adaptability are needed to quickly grasp new technologies and changing work processes. Building networks within the industry and continuously updating knowledge in digital solutions and information security are also valuable.

Key facts about corporate librarians

• Educational level: Bachelor's degree or higher in library and information science
• Work environment: Office-based, often with digital tools
• Typical work form: Full-time, sometimes with remote work options
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, especially for digitally skilled individuals
• Special skills: Information management, digitalization, data protection

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a corporate librarian can move into more specialized roles such as information specialist, digital librarian, or project manager for information systems. There are also opportunities to advance to management positions within information governance or work as a consultant in digital information management. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for librarians and archivists, job opportunities are expected to be plentiful and demand to remain unchanged over the next five years. The recruitment situation is characterized by a combination of high skill requirements and a relatively large number of vacant positions – offering good opportunities for those who stay updated and well-educated. Currently, there are about 620 job openings in the field on the Swedish labor market.

Common questions about corporate librarians

• What is the average salary for a corporate librarian?
  - The average salary is 37 600 SEK per month.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a corporate librarian?
  - The highest salary is 42,500 SEK, and the lowest is 31,100 SEK.
• Are there differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 98% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required?
  - A bachelor's degree in library and information science is standard.
• What does the job market look like for corporate librarians?
  - There are great opportunities for employment, especially for those with digital skills.
• What tasks are included?
  - Information management, digital systems, staff training, and license management.
• What common benefits are offered?
  - Flexible working hours, wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and professional development are common.