Librarians and library media specialists

Librarians and library media specialists play a vital role in the US economy, with 142K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $64,320, with projected growth of 2% through 2034 (Slower than average).

$64,320
Median Salary
2%
Growth Rate
70%
AI Risk
Master's Degree
Education

💰 Salary Range

$38,592$64,320 median$102,912

📈 Growth Outlook

➡️ Stable — 2% projected growth

🤖 AI Automation Risk

High

Significant portions of this job could be automated by AI.

🔬 AI Impact Deep Dive: Librarians and library media specialists

AI Collaboration Score

1300% — Very High

Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)

🔮 Future Outlook

Librarianship is fundamentally about information retrieval, organization, and research—domains where LLMs and AI search engines excel. While the physical presence in schools and public libraries provides a buffer through community programming and interpersonal support, the core technical tasks of cataloging, database management, and reference assistance are highly exposed to AI automation and displacement.

Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.

🌅 A Day in the Life

As a librarians and library media specialist, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.

🌟 Why It's Promising

With 2% projected growth and a median salary of $64,320, this career offers stable prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.

🚀 How to Get Started

Entry typically requires master's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.

🎯 Who Is It For

Anyone interested in librarians and library media specialists who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.

🔗 Related Careers

Adult basic and secondary education and ESL teachers

$59,950AI Risk: 70%➡️ Stable

Instructional coordinators

$74,720AI Risk: 70%➡️ Stable

Library technicians and assistants

$37,540AI Risk: 70%➡️ Stable

Tutors

$40,090AI Risk: 70%➡️ Stable

Kindergarten and elementary school teachers

$62,310AI Risk: 60%➡️ Stable

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Librarians and library media specialists make?

The median salary for a Librarians and library media specialists is $64,320 per year. Salaries range from $38,592 to $102,912 depending on experience, location, and specialization.

What AP courses should I take to become a Librarians and library media specialists?

Entry typically requires master's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.

Is Librarians and library media specialists a good career in 2026?

With 2% projected growth and a median salary of $64,320, this career offers stable prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.

Will AI replace Librarians and library media specialistss?

AI risk score: 70/100. This career faces significant evolution from AI. However, new specialized roles are emerging that combine domain expertise with AI capabilities.

Find Your Perfect Career Match

Interested in becoming a Librarians and library media specialists? Download PathLeap for personalized career recommendations based on your interests and skills.

🚀 Join the Waitlist — Coming Soon