A living library for now, for the future, for all of us
Librarian Grade 1
State Library of New South Wales
Cataloguing & Collection Services | Library Services Division
Librarian Grade 1, Full Time Ongoing
-
The State Library of NSW is offering an exciting opportunity to work with one of Australia’s most distinguished library research collections.
-
You will work as part of a team of experienced cataloguers in a dynamic and expanding environment within the Library Services Division.
- Competitive remuneration package up to $127,124 p.a. (package includes salary between $77,999 - $101,911 p.a., plus employer’s contribution to superannuation and annual leave loading)
About the State Library
The State Library of New South Wales is one of Australia's oldest and most important public institutions. The Library preserves and presents the history of our State and our Nation for the benefit of all, offering essential services, extraordinary collections and magical experiences. Its rich collections, both physical and digital, alongside partnerships with the public library network across NSW and other vibrant collaborations enable Australians to examine their past and imagine their future.
About the Role
This role is within the Cataloguing & Collection Services (CCS) Branch and contributes to the housing, description, and access of the State Library’s collections by creating accurate catalogue records, to enable discovery and use. The branch plays a fundamental role in the collection lifecycle and is vital to maintaining, researching cataloguing and providing access to the Library’s extensive collection of physical and digital materials.
The successful candidate will work with the Library’s collections in a variety of formats, support special projects, and maintain accurate access and rights information. Guided by the Library’s values of Integrity, Curiosity, Community, Generosity, and Adaptability, the role requires attention to detail, flexibility, and a commitment to excellence in a dynamic, reader-focused environment.
About you
To be successful in this role, you will have:
- Qualifications acceptable for professional membership of the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) and/or Australian Society of Archivists (ASA), or tertiary qualifications and experience deemed by the State Librarian to be equivalent that meets the minimum standard of skill and knowledge inherent in the ALIA standard.
-
Strong organisational skills, good attention to detail, and the ability to manage competing priorities while meeting deadlines
-
Up-to-date knowledge of collection management, systems and standards, alongside a proactive, collaborative approach to problem-solving, continuous improvement, and supporting others
-
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and enjoy building productive relationships with colleagues in a friendly, supportive environment.
-
Experience working with pictorial collections would be desirable.
What we offer
The State Library of NSW is a great place to work. We are a purpose-driven organisation, and you would be working with colleagues who are collaborative, knowledgeable, and like-minded.
Working at the Library gives you access to a range of benefits including:
-
Flexible working arrangements
-
A range of wellbeing events, lunchtime groups and initiatives like discounted gym programs, annual flu vaccinations, and access to an employee assistance program
-
Professional development opportunities including time off for study
-
Staff discounts at the Library café and bookshop
-
Staff engagement activities
How to apply
To apply for this role please read the role description and provide an up-to-date CV and cover letter, maximum 3 pages detailing your experience to date and suitability for this role.
The State Library of NSW welcomes and encourages applications from people with diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, LGBTQI+, people with disability, people with caring responsibilities, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, veterans and workers of all ages.
Candidates can request a reasonable adjustment throughout each step of the recruitment process by noting this in your application or contacting the People and Culture Team via
[email protected].
Talent Pool
Applicants not initially offered a role but have been assessed through the recruitment process as being suitable will be placed in the Talent Pool to fill future ongoing and temporary vacancies as they arise. Placement in the Talent Pool remains valid for 18 months.
Eligibility to apply
To be eligible to apply for this role you must be either;
-
an Australian citizen or
-
a permanent resident of Australia, or
-
a New Zealand citizen with a current New Zealand passport or a citizen of another country with an appropriate visa that allows you to work in Australia for the period of temporary employment or if you are seeking ongoing employment, you must hold a permanent visa that allows you to work in Australia.
Appointment to this role is subject to Pre-employment Checks. Additional checks may be required throughout your tenure at the Library should the accountabilities of your role change.
Further information that may assist you with applying for this role
Role Description (pdf)
Role Description (word)
Applying for a role in the NSW Public Service
NSW Public Sector Capability Framework
State Library Accessibility Guide
The Guide for applying for roles at the State Library of NSW will assist you in completing your application and provide you with an understanding of the selection process.
If you have any questions about the role, please contact Rosemarie Olk on
[email protected] or (0 9273 1424.
Closing date for applications: 20 July 2026 10am
