At State Library Victoria, we believe that access to information and stories builds knowledge, strengthens community and inspires our future. Our recent redevelopment transformed our services and spaces, enhancing our role as a driver of Victoria’s education, innovation, tourism and creative industries.
- Two roles on offer for versatile Librarians!
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Full-time, ongoing positions
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VPS 3.1, $81,496 - $90,227 + 12% superannuation p.a.
About Role 1
The role sits within a team that is passionate about making archival and artistic collection items accessible for users. You will need to apply focus to follow metadata standards consistently, while exercising sound judgement, to catalogue and collate unique treasures in the collection. Experience creating original descriptions for pictures, manuscripts and realia will be highly regarded. Ideally you will have a strong understanding of data structures but regardless will need to be excited about learning the technical and digital elements of this back-of-house role. An understanding of archival and preservation principles for special collections will further support success in this rewarding role.
For this role, we are seeking:
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A qualification in library and information management conferring eligibility for associate membership of the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) or a qualification recognised by the Australian Society of Archivists (ASA).
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Experience in the application of contemporary metadata and structural standards for original description (e.g. RDA, MARC21 and LCSH, EAD, ISAD(G), DACS).
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Familiarity with library, archival, digital preservation systems and software (e.g. Alma, ArchivesSpace)
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Demonstrated experience successfully collaborating with internal, multidisciplinary stakeholders.
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Experience with processing large data sets (e.g. Excel, MARCEdit), with exposure to bulk or batch correction processes preferred.
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Knowledge of the Library's picture and/or manuscript collecting areas, or related disciplines (e.g. history, visual arts) is desirable but not essential.
About Role 2
Reference librarian experience is welcomed in this role which oscillates between front-of-house and back-of-house duties. Your curiosity will be coupled with your specialist expertise in one or more of the Library's collecting areas (Australian history and literature, arts, popular culture and the history of the book, world knowledge, family history). Your skillset will need to include the capacity to write and maintain research guides and blog content. You will need to be adept at designing and developing webinars, and you enjoy opportunities to present online and in-person when they occur. On a day-to-day basis you will assist with the many deferred enquiries about our collections that arise as part of this reference and research-oriented role.
For this role, we are seeking:
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A qualification in library and information management conferring eligibility for associate membership of the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA).
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Demonstrated experience providing reference and research services in a library or similar information environment.
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Broad knowledge of library resources and technologies, including demonstrated practical experience in digital programming.
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Strong communication and interpersonal skills with a demonstrated commitment to visitor service excellence.
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Proven ability to collaborate effectively, share knowledge, and contribute to a positive team culture.
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Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to balance multiple priorities.
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Demonstrated understanding of accessibility, inclusion, and community engagement principles in a public library context.
About You
We value Librarians who are curious, passionate and versatile. You will be adaptable, demonstrating a willingness to support other teams when requested. Your collaborative working style underpins your approach to engaging in continu ous improvement activities, and contributes to a positive team culture.
About the Library
State Library Victoria is Australia's oldest public library, and one of the first free public libraries in the world.
We believe in the power of knowledge to change lives. Free to access and open to all, the Library enriches the cultural, educational, social and economic lives of all Victorians.
State Library Victoria preserves and shares the stories of Victoria and the world, and is a major destination for stimulating cultural experiences, contemporary debates, and community-driven collecting. We encourage learning, exploration, imagination, and creativity, opening up possibilities for all Victorians.
State Library Victoria is a child-safe organisation. A valid Working with Children Check will be required before commencing.
State Library Victoria promotes a workplace that actively seeks to welcome and value the unique contributions of all people. We strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, people from cultural and linguistical diverse backgrounds, LGBTIQ+, D/deaf, disabled, neurodiverse people and people of all ages and abilities to apply.
How to apply
Please click the Apply button to submit your application via Careers.Vic.
The following documents should be attached to your application:
Your cover letter needs to clearly state whether you wish to be considered for:
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Role 1 only
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Role 2 only
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Both roles (include which role is your preference)
Your cover letter should be a maximum of 1 page per role (i.e. Maximum 2 pages if applying for both roles). Your cover letter should also summarise how you meet the key selection criteria for the role(s) you are applying for. The key selection criteria are listed above and are also in the attached Position Descriptions under Experience and qualifications.
For more information on format and content of your application, please see how to apply for a job on the Careers Vic site.
Enquiries
To arrange a confidential discussion about the opportunity, please reach out by email to:
Privacy Collection Notice
Information about how we collect and use your personal information, and how you can contact us, can be found here.
Reasonable Adjustments
We want all applicants to have an equal opportunity to demonstrate that they are the best person for the job. If you require an adjustment at any stage of the recruitment process, or the provision of a particular access service, please contact our People team on
[email protected]
Advertising closes on Monday, 15 June 2026 at 11.59pm Australian Eastern Standard Time.
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