Librarians Salary
Salary data from ONS ASHE. Some figures may be unavailable due to small sample sizes.
For librarians, £38,068 is the typical (median) pay. That is around the UK full-time median of £39,039 — -2.0% versus the national average.
About this role
Librarians manage library collections, services and information resources, supporting learning, research and public access to knowledge. They catalogue materials, develop digital resources and deliver information literacy programmes.
Key responsibilities
- Managing collections including acquisition and cataloguing
- Providing reference and information services
- Developing digital resources and literacy programmes
- Managing staff, budgets and facilities
- Promoting reading, learning and community engagement
Qualifications and entry routes
Requires a CILIP-accredited postgraduate qualification in library and information science. Chartership (MCLIP) is the professional standard. A first degree in any subject is typical entry.
Career outlook
Public library roles have declined due to funding pressures. Academic and specialist roles remain stable. Digital and data management skills open new pathways.
Key skills
Common industries
- Public libraries
- University libraries
- School libraries
- Specialist libraries
- NHS libraries
Data coverage
Salary Trend (2015-2025)
Librarians salary: common questions
How much do librarians earn in the UK?
Is £38,068 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for librarians?
Have librarians salaries kept up with inflation?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).