Become a Reference Librarian at the Library of Congress
The Library of Congress, the world’s largest library, is currently seeking a passionate and skilled Librarian (Reference) to join the Music Division. This is a rare opportunity to manage and interpret one of the most significant performing arts collections globally. If you possess a Master’s degree in Library Science and a deep appreciation for the history of music, this role offers a unique platform to contribute to the nation’s cultural heritage.
Job Responsibilities
As a Reference Librarian, your daily duties will be diverse and intellectually stimulating:
- Reference Services: Provide expert research assistance to patrons via telephone, email, and in-person interviews.
- Collection Management: Help maintain, organize, and monitor the condition of musical scores and special collections.
- Outreach: Create research guides and finding aids to help scholars navigate the Music Division's vast resources.
- Acquisitions: Assist in identifying and recommending new materials for the Library’s collection.
Requirements
To be eligible, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A Master’s degree in Library Science or equivalent graduate-level training is required.
- Drug Policy: Applicants must adhere to federal drug-free workplace laws.
- Citizenship: Must meet federal hiring requirements.
Comparison: General Librarian Roles vs. Performing Arts Specialist
| Feature | General Librarian | Reference Specialist (Music) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Broad collection management | Specialized (Music, Theater, Dance) |
| Research | General inquiry handling | Complex, in-depth scholarly support |
| Tools | Standard bibliographic tools | Specialized music databases |
Salary and Benefits
This position is graded at the GS-09 level with promotion potential to GS-12, offering a salary range of $70,623 to $91,815 per year. Employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package, flexible work schedules, and the ability to work in a collaborative, world-class intellectual environment.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience that demonstrates your ability to manage complex research requests.
- Documentation: Ensure all college transcripts are legible and attached at the time of application.
- Follow Procedures: Use the official Hiring Management link provided on the USAJOBS page.
If you are ready to apply your expertise in librarianship to the world’s most prestigious library, do not wait. Submit your application before the closing date to join a team dedicated to preserving the story of music and creativity for generations to come.
Why This Librarian (Reference) Job Matters
Shape the future of music and performing arts preservation at the world's largest library.
Librarian (Reference) Job Overview
The Library of Congress is seeking a highly skilled Librarian (Reference) to join the Music Division. This role is a vital link between the Library’s massive performing arts collections and the researchers, scholars, and public who rely on them. You will provide complex reference services, facilitate research through digital and traditional tools, and contribute to the management of priceless musical and theatrical archives.
Requirements for Librarian (Reference)
- Completion of a master's degree in library science or equivalent graduate-level education.
- Must be able to pass a federal background investigation.
- Strict adherence to federal drug-free workplace policies, including prohibition of marijuana use.
- Ability to provide complex research and reference support in the performing arts.
- Proficiency in bibliographic tools and digital reference systems.
- Submission of all required transcripts and, if applicable, foreign credential evaluations.
Preferred Qualifications for Librarian (Reference)
- Expertise in music librarianship and the history/literature of music.
- Experience using integrated library systems and emerging technology tools for collection management.
- Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both in writing and in interpersonal settings.
- Experience collaborating with academic, scientific, or professional research communities.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and locality pay.
- ✓Access to the Library of Congress benefits package.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and research.
- ✓Flexible work schedules (Flexitime).
- ✓Collaborative and mission-driven work environment.
💡 How to Apply Librarian (Reference) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Librarian (Reference) Job
- Create or update your resume and upload it to your USAJOBS profile.
- Review the full vacancy announcement to understand the critical KSAs.
- Click the 'Apply Online' button to be redirected to the Hiring Management portal.
- Complete the eligibility questions and the specific vacancy-related assessment.
- Upload all required documentation, including transcripts and any necessary SF-50 forms.
- Review your application thoroughly and click 'Finish' to submit before the deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Customize your resume to specifically address the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) marked with a double asterisk.
- Ensure all documents (like transcripts) are clearly legible and combined into single files if they are of the same type.
- Apply well before the closing date to avoid potential technical issues during the submission process.
- If you have questions, reach out to the provided agency contact email or phone number before the announcement closes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position open to the public?
Yes, this is an open competitive service position available to all qualified applicants.
What is the work schedule like?
This position utilizes a Flexitime work schedule, allowing for flexibility in balancing work duties.
Can I use marijuana if I work at the Library of Congress?
No. Despite local laws in the District of Columbia, the Library of Congress is a federal institution and strictly prohibits the use of illegal drugs, including marijuana.
What does the interview process look like?
Applicants will be evaluated via an online questionnaire and potentially a structured interview.
Is relocation provided?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.
Job from Library Of Congress
As the nation’s oldest federal cultural institution, the Library of Congress serves as the research arm of the U.S. Congress. It preserves over 158 million items, including manuscripts, photographs, and musical instruments. Joining the Library means becoming part of a community dedicated to engaging, informing, and inspiring the American public through accessible knowledge.