Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) develops advanced research expertise, critical thinking and independent inquiry, enabling you to make an...
An Academic Librarian helps students, lecturers and researchers find, evaluate and use the information they need for study, teaching and research. They manage both physical and digital resources, including books, journals, databases, archives and open-access materials. The role is increasingly digital and teaching-focused. Academic Librarians may deliver information-literacy sessions, support literature searching and referencing, advise on copyright and responsible use of AI, and work closely with academic departments to develop collections and research support.
Develop and manage physical and digital library collections. Help students and researchers find and evaluate reliable information. Deliver training in research, referencing and information literacy. Manage databases, e-resources, licensing and access systems. Liaise with academic departments to understand teaching and research needs. Support areas such as open access, copyright and research data.
Salaries vary according to experience, qualifications, location and seniority. Graduate trainee roles are typically around £18,000 to £23,000, while assistant librarians may earn around £22,000 to £38,000. Academic, subject and research librarians can typically earn around £28,000 to £48,000. Senior and deputy librarian salaries can rise considerably higher, particularly for heads or directors of university library and information services.
Academic Librarians typically work around 35 hours per week. Some evening, weekend or bank-holiday work may be required, particularly where university libraries have extended opening hours. Most roles are based at universities, colleges or research institutions. Work can take place in libraries, offices, teaching rooms and online environments, and some hybrid or remote working may be available.
Academic Librarians combine information management with a highly people-focused role. A typical day might include helping a student with a literature search, teaching a research-skills session, reviewing electronic resources and meeting academics about materials required for a course. Digital resources now form a major part of university library services, so the role increasingly involves databases, online learning systems, open-access publishing and digital literacy alongside traditional library collections.
Academic Librarians commonly have a degree in any subject followed by a postgraduate qualification in library and information studies, information science or a related discipline. Courses accredited by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP) are particularly relevant. Relevant library experience is valuable and some people enter through graduate trainee or library assistant roles before completing professional qualifications.
Experience in a university, public, school or specialist library can help you understand library systems and demonstrate commitment to the profession. Graduate trainee schemes and library assistant positions are common entry routes. Volunteering, placements and work involving information management, research support or customer service can also be useful. Experience with databases, digital resources and teaching or training is increasingly valuable.
You may progress from assistant or trainee roles into positions such as Academic Librarian, Subject Librarian or Research Support Librarian. With experience, you can specialise in areas such as digital learning, electronic resources, systems, open research or research data management. Senior progression can include Library Manager, Deputy Director and Director or Head of Library Services. Professional registration or chartership through CILIP may support career development.
Build the skills needed for this role with these courses.
Common questions about this role.
Step-by-step guidance on preparing and submitting your university application.
Step-by-step guidance on preparing and submitting your university application.
Learn what qualifications and English levels you’ll need to apply.
Learn what qualifications and English levels you’ll need to apply.
Find essential information on UK student visas, immigration, and ATAS certificates.
Find essential information on UK student visas, immigration, and ATAS certificates.
Understand tuition fees, payment options, and financial requirements before you apply.
Understand tuition fees, payment options, and financial requirements before you apply.
