Research librarian

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

A research librarian is responsible for supporting researchers, students, and academic staff with information retrieval, source criticism, and literature management. Tasks often include acquiring and cataloging scientific publications, developing digital resources, and providing guidance in referencing and publishing strategies. Many research librarians are also involved in teaching and training in information literacy. The work environment is characterized by close collaboration with research communities, often at universities and colleges, where physical and digital library environments are combined. The profession demands high analytical skills, service orientation, and technical competence in information systems.

Salary development over time

The salary for research librarians has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,200 SEK per month, which increased to 36 100 SEK in 2023. The latest recorded year, 2024, has an average salary of 37 600 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 7% over three years. This positive trend reflects a growing demand for qualified library and information expertise in academic environments. Salaries are also influenced by education level, especially for those with research degrees, and by the sector of employment – public or government. Regional differences may exist, but overall the profession has experienced stable salary growth and some convergence between genders.

Research 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
• Gender difference: Women earn 98% of what men do (37 400 SEK vs. 38 200 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on the region, but exact figures are unavailable

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a research librarian typically involves an academic degree in library and information science. Many employers prefer candidates with a master's degree or research qualifications, especially at larger research libraries. Practical experience and advanced IT skills are often advantageous, as well as the ability to work with research data and publishing systems. It is common to combine education with internships or projects within academic environments to build relevant experience.

• Bachelor’s degree: Library and information science (3 years)
• Master’s degree: Recommended, especially for university and research libraries
• Research degree: Meritorious for specialized roles
• Internships: Usually during studies
• IT skills: Competence in digital library systems and publishing platforms
• Courses: Continuing education in research data, open access, and scientific communication

Common benefits and compensations

Research librarians are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional development. Other common compensations include occupational pensions, subsidized lunches, and access to internal and external training. In some cases, research leave and participation in international exchanges are also available.

Competition and challenges

The profession of research librarian is attractive, but competition for the most qualified positions can be fierce, especially at leading universities and research institutes. A challenge is to stay updated on the rapid development of digital library services and scientific publishing. At the same time, the labor market demands higher specialization and broader IT competencies than before. There is also a paradoxical recruitment situation where some employers struggle to find the right expertise, while there is oversupply in other parts of the profession. Continuous skills development and adaptation to changing research landscapes are therefore crucial.

Tips for those who want to become a research librarian

To succeed as a research librarian, it is beneficial to combine a genuine interest in knowledge with the ability to collaborate and communicate. Being meticulous and analytical facilitates information retrieval and source evaluation, while technical curiosity makes it easier to handle new digital tools. Engagement with research questions and understanding researchers' needs help create added value in the role. Flexibility and adaptability are also important, as the library environment is constantly evolving. Finally, initiative and independence are valuable when developing new services and training within the library.

Key facts about research librarians

• Education level: At least a bachelor’s degree, often a master's degree
• Work environment: Academic libraries, often at universities or colleges
• Work form: Full-time, daytime with flexible hours
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, but varies regionally
• Special skills: IT, digital systems, and research data

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a research librarian can advance to more specialized roles, such as subject librarian, digital resource coordinator, or head of research support units. There are also opportunities to work with project management, training initiatives, or international collaborations. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the job market is good with many opportunities, especially within academic environments. Over a five-year horizon, demand is expected to remain stable, but increasing digitalization and the need for specialized skills may influence future job content and career trajectories. There are approximately 620 job openings in the profession, indicating a continued stable job market.

Frequently asked questions about research librarians

• What does a research librarian earn?
  - A research librarian has an average salary of 37 600 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn 98% of what men do in the profession; women 37 400 SEK and men 38 200 SEK.
• What education is required to work as a research librarian?
  - At least a bachelor's degree in library and information science, often a master's degree is also required.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The labor market is considered good with great opportunities for employment in the coming five years.
• What is the highest salary for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 42,500 SEK per month, belonging to a woman in the public sector with research qualifications.
• What is the lowest salary for a research librarian?
  - The lowest salary is 31,100 SEK per month for a man in the government sector with a high school education.
• What benefits are common?
  - Benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and professional development are common.