The Alaska Division of Libraries, Archives and Museums notes that there are 84 central public libraries, 17 branches, and one bookmobile across the Last Frontier. Libraries in this vast state serve many purposes. They provide everyone with access to singular collections of books, maps, and other materials that are unique to the state. For example, the Alaska State Library houses a collection of over 34,000 publications, ranging from fiction to rare volumes on early explorations in Alaska and the Arctic.
Another fact that stands out about public libraries in Alaska is that they are often the only source of internet access in rural communities for those who live there. Many rural communities in Alaska do not have access to high-speed internet. Public libraries often provide the only way for residents to get online.
In Alaska, as elsewhere, public libraries provide a place for people to gather and learn. Libraries offer a variety of programs and events, such as book clubs, children’s story time, and computer classes. They also provide a space for people to study, relax, and socialize. Libraries are seen as an important part of Alaska’s communities, and they play a role in providing services and resources to residents.
Alaska’s librarians, whether public, academic, school, or special, play an important part in each of these endeavors. They must have specialized training and education in order to do so.
What Does an Alaska Librarian Do?
The duties of a librarian in Alaska vary depending on the size and type of library. However, most librarians in Alaska will perform some of the following tasks:
- Cataloging and shelving books and other materials
- Helping patrons find the materials they need
- Providing reference assistance, answering questions from patrons and helping them find the information they need
- Instructing patrons on how to use the library’s resources
- Leading events and programs for patrons of all ages
- Promoting the library to the community by giving presentations at schools and community centers and by working with the media to spread the word about the library’s services
- Maintaining the library’s collection, weeding out outdated and damaged materials and purchasing new materials
Alaska Librarian Education
Although many Alaska librarians are only mandated to have a bachelor’s degree in library science, the American Library Association (ALA) recommends that all librarians, including those in Alaska, earn a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) or a Master of Library Science (MLS) degree from a school that is ALA-accredited. Currently, no such programs exist in Alaska. However, you may earn this degree from any state or online, as long as it has been accredited by the ALA.
Librarian Certification in Alaska
Public librarians in Alaska do not need to be certified. Directors must complete state librarian-certified continuing education to maintain their positions. School librarians in Alaska must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in library media education. They must also complete credits in Alaska studies and multicultural education.
Where Do Librarians Work in Alaska?
Alaska librarian jobs will be posted on the ALA’s JobLIST when available. Jobs are also advertised on the Alaska Library Association’s Jobs in Alaska site, at governmentjobs.com, and at online job sites.
Librarian Salary in Alaska
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the U.S. Department of Labor (May 2021), Alaska librarians make $25.26 per hour (mean wage) and $52,540 per year (mean wage). Those working in Anchorage make more, at $36.28 hourly and $75,460 annually. In Fairbanks, librarians average $29.74 per hour and $61,860 per year.
Job Prospects for Alaska Librarians
Librarian positions in Alaska are available from time to time, and will be advertised on the above-mentioned websites. A few of the librarian jobs posted in March 2023 include:
- Librarian -Anchorage School District, Anchorage, AK
- Pay rate: $51,900 to $65,800 per year
- You must have an Alaska teaching certificate with an endorsement in library science, school librarian, or media services in order to qualify for this position
- Having a master’s degree will give you an advantage over other applicants
- Librarian – Fairbanks North Star Borough School District, Fairbanks, AK
- Pay rate: $46,800 to $59,300 per year
- You must have an Alaska teaching certificate with an endorsement in library science, school librarian, or media services in order to qualify for this position
- Academic Librarian – Ilisagvik College, Barrow, AK
- Pay rate: $72,505 per year
- You must have an MLS or an MLIS degree from an ALA-accredited school in order to qualify for this position
- You must have two years of library experience in order to qualify for this position
- Having teaching experience will give you an advantage over other applicants
- Having a driver’s license will give you an advantage over other applicants
- Assistant City Librarian – City of Soldotna, Soldotna, AK
- Pay rate: $41,700 to $52,900 per year
- You must have an MLS or an MLIS degree from an ALA-accredited school and one (1) year of library experience in order to qualify for this position
- A bachelor’s degree along with three years of library experience in lieu of the above-referenced education and experience may be substituted
- You must have an Alaska driver’s license in order to qualify for this position
- Instruction & Research Librarian, Business & Government Information – University of Alaska, Anchorage, AK
- Pay rate: $52,900 to $66,900 per year
- You must have an MLS or an MLIS degree from an ALA-accredited school in order to qualify for this position
- You must have teaching, training or presenting experience in order to qualify for this position
- Having two years of information resource experience in business, economics and related disciplines will give you an advantage over other applicants
- Small Branch Manager, Professional Librarian I – Municipality of Anchorage, Anchorage, AK
- Pay rate: $56,410 to $71,906 per year
- You must have an MLS or an MLIS degree from an ALA-accredited school in order to qualify for this position
- A bachelor’s degree and three years of professional experience may be substituted for the MLS or MLIS degree requirement
- Having experience working in a public library will give you an advantage over other applicants
- Having experience working with a diverse population of children, adults, and the elderly will give you an advantage over other applicants
