Librarian CV Example and Writing Guide

A librarian CV should show that you can organise information and help users find it. Employers look for your library science degree, cataloguing standards such as DDC and MARC 21, and experience with library software. Add numbers like collection size, daily users and services you improved. Keep the layout neat, because librarians are expected to be careful and organised.

Use this template Start blank

What to include in a librarian CV

  • Put your MLIS or LIS degree near the top, because most employers ask for it.
  • Name the library software you used, such as Koha, Dspace or Evergreen.
  • Give numbers: size of collection, daily visitors, books catalogued each month.
  • Show user service, for example training, reference help and reading programmes.
  • Mention digital skills such as e-journals, repositories and HEC digital library access.

Sample profile (copy the idea, not the words)

Librarian with 7 years of experience in academic libraries, skilled in cataloguing, digital resources and user training. Managed a collection of 45,000 books and helped increase database use by 40% through student workshops.

Skills to consider

Cataloguing (DDC, MARC 21), Koha library software, Digital resources, Reference service, User training, Collection development, Plagiarism check tools, Reader advisory.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Describing the job only as keeping books in order
  • Leaving out software and cataloguing standards
  • Using long paragraphs instead of short bullet points

How to write a librarian CV step by step

  1. Start with your contact details and headline. Write your name, phone, e-mail and city, and a headline such as "Librarian - University Library".
  2. Write a two to three sentence profile. Say who you are, how many years of experience you have and one result you are proud of.
  3. List experience, newest first. For every job give the title, employer, dates and two to four bullet points that show results.
  4. Add education and certificates. Include degree, institute and year. Add licences or short courses that the job needs.
  5. Finish with skills and languages. Choose skills from the job advert that are really yours.
  6. Proofread and export as PDF. A PDF keeps your layout the same on every device.

Librarian CV: frequently asked questions

How to write a librarian CV with no experience?

Use your LIS degree, internship, practical cataloguing work and any volunteer help in school or community libraries. List the software and standards you studied.

What is the best librarian CV format for Gulf and abroad jobs?

Use a clean two-page CV with your degree, cataloguing standards, library systems and English skill. Add digital library and database experience, since many international libraries are mostly online.

What skills should a librarian put on a CV?

Cataloguing, classification, reference service, library software, digital resources and user training are key. Add soft skills like patience and clear communication with examples.

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