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STEM Librarian

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Exploring the Career Path of a STEM Librarian

A STEM Librarian serves as a crucial link between information resources and the communities engaged in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). This specialized role involves managing collections, providing research support, and fostering information literacy specifically tailored to the needs of students, faculty, researchers, and professionals within STEM disciplines. It's a dynamic field that blends subject matter interest with the principles of library and information science.

Working as a STEM Librarian offers unique opportunities to engage with cutting-edge research and technological advancements. You might find yourself helping a team of engineers locate obscure technical standards, guiding biology students through complex genomic databases, or collaborating with faculty to integrate data management best practices into their research workflows. This role often places you at the center of discovery and innovation within academic institutions, research labs, or specialized corporate libraries.

Introduction to STEM Librarians

Defining the STEM Librarian

A STEM Librarian is an information professional specializing in resources and services for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. They possess a unique combination of skills, bridging traditional library science practices with an understanding of STEM fields. Their primary goal is to facilitate access to and effective use of specialized information within these rapidly evolving disciplines.

The scope of their work extends beyond managing books and journals. It encompasses digital databases, datasets, technical reports, patents, standards, software, and archival materials. They are adept at navigating complex information landscapes and employ sophisticated search strategies to retrieve relevant materials for diverse user needs.

This specialization distinguishes them significantly from general librarians. While core library skills are essential, STEM librarians require deeper subject knowledge or a strong aptitude for learning technical concepts quickly. They must understand the research methodologies, publication patterns, and data practices specific to STEM fields to provide effective support.

The Evolution of the Role

The concept of specialized librarians serving scientific and technical communities isn't new, tracing back to the rise of industrial research and academic science departments. Early technical librarians focused primarily on managing print collections like journals, conference proceedings, and technical manuals within corporate or government agency libraries.

The digital revolution profoundly transformed the role. The explosion of electronic journals, databases, and large datasets shifted the focus from physical custodianship to digital curation, information architecture, and advanced search expertise. Librarians became critical guides in navigating the increasingly complex digital information ecosystem.

More recently, the emphasis on data management, open science, and interdisciplinary research has further reshaped the profession. STEM librarians are now often involved in developing data management plans, supporting institutional repositories, advising on scholarly communication issues like open access, and teaching data literacy skills alongside traditional information literacy.

Distinguishing STEM Librarianship

What truly sets STEM librarians apart is their engagement with the specific information needs and practices of scientific and technical disciplines. Unlike general reference librarians who cover a broad range of subjects, STEM librarians develop deeper expertise within their designated areas, such as engineering, chemistry, or computer science.

This specialization allows them to provide more targeted and effective research support. They understand the key databases, journals, data repositories, and even the jargon used within specific STEM fields. This familiarity enables them to anticipate researcher needs and offer more nuanced guidance.

Furthermore, STEM librarians often play a more active role in the research lifecycle. They might assist with literature reviews, advise on data visualization tools, help researchers comply with data sharing mandates, or even co-author papers on information retrieval or bibliometrics. This integration into the research process is a hallmark of modern STEM librarianship.

Roles and Responsibilities of STEM Librarians

Curating Specialized Resources

A core responsibility is building and managing collections tailored to STEM disciplines. This involves selecting and acquiring relevant books, journals, databases, datasets, software, and other materials, whether physical or digital. Collection development requires careful budgeting and evaluation of resources based on user needs and institutional priorities.

Managing digital resources is particularly crucial. STEM librarians evaluate database subscriptions, negotiate licenses with vendors, ensure seamless remote access, and troubleshoot technical issues. They also play a key role in organizing and preserving digital assets, including research data and institutional publications.

They stay informed about new publications, emerging research areas, and changing information formats within STEM fields. This requires ongoing professional development and engagement with the scholarly communities they serve. Effective curation ensures that users have access to the most relevant, authoritative, and up-to-date information.

Supporting Research and Data Management

STEM librarians are vital partners in the research process. They provide in-depth research consultations, helping users formulate search strategies, navigate complex databases, locate specific data points, and manage citations. This support can range from assisting undergraduate students with term papers to collaborating with faculty on grant proposals.

A growing area of responsibility is research data management (RDM). Librarians advise researchers on creating data management plans (DMPs), selecting appropriate metadata standards, finding suitable data repositories, and understanding data sharing and preservation requirements often mandated by funding agencies.

They may also offer workshops or individual guidance on using citation management software, understanding bibliometrics and research impact metrics, and navigating issues related to copyright and intellectual property in a research context. Their goal is to empower researchers to manage information effectively throughout the research lifecycle.

Collaboration and Curriculum Development

STEM librarians often collaborate closely with faculty and academic departments. They may serve as liaisons to specific STEM departments, attending faculty meetings and staying abreast of curriculum changes and research initiatives. This connection helps align library services and collections with departmental needs.

In some institutions, STEM librarians co-develop course materials or design specific library instruction sessions integrated into STEM courses. This might involve creating online research guides, teaching students how to conduct literature reviews for lab reports, or introducing discipline-specific information resources relevant to their coursework.

This collaborative approach ensures that students develop essential information literacy skills within the context of their STEM studies. It also strengthens the library's role as an integral part of the educational mission, fostering partnerships across campus.

Teaching Information Literacy

Instruction is a key function for many STEM librarians. They design and deliver workshops, course-integrated sessions, and online tutorials focused on information literacy skills relevant to STEM fields. This includes teaching students how to effectively search scientific databases, evaluate scholarly sources, understand the publication cycle, and cite sources appropriately.

Topics often extend beyond basic library skills to include data literacy, visualization tools, ethical use of information, and strategies for staying current in rapidly advancing fields. The goal is to equip students and researchers with the critical skills needed to navigate the complex STEM information landscape independently.

Effective teaching requires not only library expertise but also strong communication skills and an understanding of pedagogical best practices. STEM librarians tailor their instruction to different audiences, from first-year undergraduates to seasoned researchers, adapting content and delivery methods accordingly.

For educators looking to incorporate STEM principles into their teaching, resources exist to guide this process. Understanding how to structure engineering activities can be beneficial, even for librarians supporting education departments.

Formal Education Pathways

Undergraduate Foundations

While a specific undergraduate major is rarely mandated, a background in a STEM field can be highly advantageous for aspiring STEM librarians. Coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, mathematics, or computer science provides valuable subject knowledge and familiarity with the research culture of these disciplines.

Alternatively, a strong liberal arts education combined with significant coursework in science or mathematics can also provide a solid foundation. Regardless of the major, developing strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills during undergraduate studies is crucial for success in library science.

Some universities offer minors or concentrations in library or information science, which can provide an early introduction to the field. Taking courses related to information management, digital literacy, or research methods can also be beneficial preparation for graduate studies.

The Master's Degree in Library Science (MLS/MLIS)

The standard professional credential for librarians in North America is a Master's degree in Library Science (MLS) or Library and Information Science (MLIS) from a program accredited by the American Library Association (ALA). This degree typically takes one to two years of full-time study to complete.

Prospective STEM librarians should look for MLS/MLIS programs that offer specializations, coursework, or concentrations relevant to science and technology librarianship. Relevant courses might cover topics like scientific databases, research data management, scholarly communication, digital libraries, information architecture, and collection development for STEM fields.

Some programs offer dual-degree options, combining an MLS/MLIS with a Master's degree in a specific STEM subject. While extending the duration of study, this path provides deep subject expertise alongside library qualifications, making graduates highly competitive for specialized roles.

Advanced Studies and Certifications

For those interested in research-focused positions, academic leadership roles, or teaching at the university level within library science, a PhD in Library and Information Science or a related field may be pursued. PhD programs typically involve advanced coursework, original research, and the completion of a dissertation.

Beyond formal degrees, various certifications can enhance a STEM librarian's qualifications and demonstrate expertise in specific areas. Certifications related to data management (e.g., through the Data Management Association), archival systems, digital preservation, or specialized software platforms can be valuable additions to a resume.

Professional organizations like the Special Libraries Association (SLA) and the Association of College & Research Libraries (ACRL), particularly its Science & Technology Section (STS), often offer continuing education opportunities and workshops relevant to STEM librarianship.

Online Learning and Skill Development

Transitioning via Online Education

For individuals considering a career change into STEM librarianship or those seeking to supplement existing qualifications, online education offers flexible pathways. Numerous ALA-accredited MLS/MLIS programs are available entirely online, allowing students to pursue their degree without relocating.

Online learning can be particularly beneficial for those already working in a related field or needing to balance studies with personal commitments. It provides access to diverse programs and specialized coursework that might not be available locally. However, self-discipline and effective time management are crucial for success in online programs.

While an online MLS/MLIS provides the core credential, supplementing it with practical experience through internships, volunteer work, or relevant projects remains important. Many online programs facilitate internship placements to help students gain hands-on skills.

Key Topics for Self-Study

Beyond a formal degree, continuous learning is essential. Key areas for self-study include mastering specialized STEM databases (like PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Compendex), understanding metadata standards relevant to research data (e.g., Dublin Core, discipline-specific schemas), and becoming proficient with citation management tools (e.g., Zotero, EndNote, Mendeley).

Developing technical skills is also valuable. Familiarity with data analysis and visualization tools (Python libraries, R, Tableau), web development basics (HTML, CSS), and perhaps scripting languages can enhance a librarian's ability to support digital scholarship and manage library systems.

Staying current with trends in scholarly communication, open access publishing models, research data management best practices, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence in libraries is also crucial. Reading professional journals, attending webinars, and participating in online communities are effective ways to keep learning.

Learners can use OpenCourser's data science section to find courses covering many of these technical skills.

Building a Portfolio with Projects

Demonstrating practical skills is key, especially for career changers or recent graduates. Building a portfolio of independent projects can showcase expertise beyond coursework. This might involve creating a detailed online research guide for a specific STEM topic or course.

Other portfolio-worthy projects could include developing a sample data management plan for a hypothetical research project, analyzing a small dataset and creating visualizations, curating a collection of open educational resources for a STEM subject, or writing a critical review of a new database or research tool.

Presenting these projects online, perhaps through a personal website or LinkedIn profile, allows potential employers to see tangible evidence of your skills and initiative. This proactive approach can significantly strengthen a job application.

OpenCourser provides tools to help learners organize their learning journey. The "Save to list" feature allows users to curate courses and build personalized learning paths, which can be shared as part of a portfolio.

Supplementing Formal Education

Online courses and modules offer excellent opportunities to supplement formal education or refresh existing knowledge. Platforms featured on OpenCourser host numerous short courses and tutorials on specific software, technical skills, or specialized topics relevant to STEM librarianship.

These can be used to fill gaps in an MLS/MLIS curriculum, acquire skills needed for a particular job posting, or explore emerging areas like machine learning applications in libraries or bioinformatics information resources. Certificates of completion from reputable providers can add weight to your qualifications.

Engaging with online learning demonstrates a commitment to lifelong learning, a critical trait in the rapidly evolving field of information science. It allows professionals to remain adaptable and responsive to the changing needs of the communities they serve.

Career Progression and Opportunities

Entry-Level Roles

Graduates typically enter the field in roles such as Reference Librarian, Library Assistant, Research Support Librarian, or Subject Liaison Librarian with responsibilities in STEM areas. These positions often involve providing reference services, teaching introductory information literacy sessions, and assisting with collection management tasks.

Early-career roles provide foundational experience in academic or special library settings. They offer opportunities to learn institutional workflows, develop user support skills, and begin specializing in particular STEM disciplines or functional areas like data services or scholarly communication.

Internships or practicum experiences gained during the MLS/MLIS program are invaluable for securing these initial positions. Networking through professional organizations and informational interviews can also open doors to entry-level opportunities.

Mid-Career Paths and Specialization

With experience, STEM librarians often specialize further. They might become dedicated subject specialists for disciplines like Engineering, Chemistry, or Health Sciences, developing deep expertise in the resources and research practices of those fields. These roles often involve closer collaboration with faculty and researchers.

Another common path involves specializing in functional areas like data services, scholarly communication, digital collections, or assessment. Data librarians, for example, focus specifically on supporting research data management, analysis, and preservation, a rapidly growing area of need.

Mid-career professionals may also take on supervisory responsibilities, managing specific library services, teams, or branch libraries. These roles require leadership skills, project management capabilities, and a broader understanding of library operations.

Leadership and Advanced Roles

Experienced STEM librarians can advance to leadership positions within libraries or information centers. Roles like Head of Science Libraries, Director of Research Services, Associate University Librarian for STEM, or Assistant Dean require significant experience, strategic vision, and management expertise.

These positions involve overseeing budgets, personnel, strategic planning, and representing the library at higher administrative levels. Strong leadership, communication, and advocacy skills are essential for success in these roles.

Some STEM librarians leverage their expertise to transition into related fields. Their skills in information management, data analysis, and research support are transferable to roles in knowledge management, competitive intelligence, data science, or technical writing within industry or government agencies.

Emerging Roles in Tech-Driven Libraries

Technological advancements continue to create new roles and reshape existing ones within STEM librarianship. Expertise in areas like digital humanities support (for interdisciplinary projects), geographic information systems (GIS), artificial intelligence applications in information retrieval, and bioinformatics data management is increasingly valuable.

Librarians may find themselves managing makerspaces equipped with 3D printers and other fabrication tools, supporting virtual reality applications in education, or developing strategies for managing and preserving complex digital objects like simulations or interactive datasets.

The ability to adapt to new technologies, learn continuously, and collaborate with technical experts is crucial for librarians navigating these evolving roles. This tech-driven landscape offers exciting opportunities for those interested in the intersection of information, technology, and STEM.

STEM Librarians and Technological Integration

Managing Digital Repositories

A significant aspect of modern STEM librarianship involves managing digital platforms that support scholarly communication. This includes institutional repositories (IRs), which collect, preserve, and provide access to the research output of an institution, such as articles, theses, and datasets.

Librarians are often responsible for developing policies for IRs, assisting researchers with depositing their work, ensuring metadata quality, and promoting the repository's use. They also manage access to preprint servers, platforms where researchers share early versions of their work before formal peer review.

This work supports open access initiatives and increases the visibility and impact of institutional research. It requires technical understanding of repository platforms, metadata standards, and copyright issues related to scholarly publishing.

AI and Resource Discovery

Artificial intelligence (AI) is beginning to impact library operations, including resource discovery and metadata creation. AI-powered tools can potentially automate aspects of cataloging, enhance search algorithms in library databases, and provide new ways for users to interact with information resources.

STEM librarians are exploring how AI can improve services, such as using machine learning to identify relevant research papers or datasets based on user queries or research profiles. They may also be involved in evaluating and implementing AI tools within the library's infrastructure.

Understanding the capabilities and limitations of AI, as well as its ethical implications, is becoming increasingly important. Librarians must ensure that AI applications enhance, rather than hinder, equitable access to information and uphold user privacy.

Ethics in Data and Access

STEM librarians grapple with significant ethical considerations related to data privacy, access equity, and intellectual freedom. When assisting with research data management, they must navigate privacy regulations (like GDPR or HIPAA) concerning sensitive or human-subject data.

Ensuring equitable access to expensive STEM resources is another challenge. Librarians advocate for fair licensing agreements with publishers and promote open access models to reduce barriers for researchers and students, particularly those at less-resourced institutions or in developing countries.

They also uphold principles of intellectual freedom, ensuring access to a wide range of scientific viewpoints, even those that may be controversial. Balancing these ethical responsibilities requires careful judgment and a commitment to professional library ethics.

Impact of Open Science

The open science movement, which advocates for making scientific research processes and outputs openly available, significantly impacts STEM librarianship. Librarians are key players in supporting open access publishing, open data sharing, and the use of open-source software and tools.

They educate researchers about open access options, help them comply with funder mandates for open data, and manage platforms that facilitate open sharing. They may also advocate for institutional policies that support open science principles.

This shift requires librarians to stay informed about evolving publishing models, data repository standards, and copyright law related to open licenses (e.g., Creative Commons). Their role is crucial in fostering a more transparent, collaborative, and accessible research ecosystem.

Key Skills for Modern STEM Librarians

Technical Proficiency

Strong technical skills are essential for modern STEM librarians. Proficiency in searching specialized scientific databases and platforms is fundamental. Familiarity with data management tools, data visualization software (like Tableau or R libraries), and perhaps geographic information systems (GIS) is increasingly expected.

Understanding metadata standards, digital repository platforms, and basic web technologies (HTML, CSS) is also valuable. While not always required to be expert programmers, some familiarity with scripting languages like Python can be advantageous for data manipulation or automating tasks.

Continuous learning is key, as the technological landscape is constantly changing. Librarians need to be comfortable adapting to new software, platforms, and digital tools relevant to STEM research and information management.

Exploring resources in Technology or Programming on OpenCourser can help build these foundational skills.

Essential Soft Skills

Alongside technical abilities, strong soft skills are critical. Excellent communication skills are needed for interacting with diverse users, conducting reference interviews, teaching workshops, and collaborating with faculty and researchers. The ability to explain complex topics clearly is paramount.

Interdisciplinary communication is particularly important, as STEM librarians often work across different departments and research areas. Strong problem-solving skills help in addressing complex research questions and troubleshooting access issues. Collaboration and teamwork are essential for working effectively within the library and with external partners.

Skills in project management, instruction, and sometimes even grant writing can be beneficial, especially for those seeking advancement or involved in specific initiatives like developing new services or securing funding for specialized resources.

Balancing Traditional and Digital Skills

Successful STEM librarians effectively blend traditional library science principles with modern digital fluency. Core skills like cataloging, classification, and understanding information organization remain relevant, even as the formats and delivery mechanisms change.

However, these must be complemented by expertise in managing electronic resources, understanding digital preservation, navigating complex licensing agreements, and supporting users in a predominantly digital information environment. The ability to evaluate both print and digital resources critically is essential.

This balance allows STEM librarians to provide comprehensive support, leveraging the strengths of both traditional and digital approaches to information access and management. It ensures they can meet the diverse needs of users across the spectrum of STEM disciplines.

Challenges Facing STEM Librarians

Resource and Budget Constraints

A perennial challenge for STEM librarians is securing adequate funding for specialized resources. Subscriptions to major scientific databases and journals can be extremely expensive, often straining library budgets. Balancing the need for comprehensive collections against financial limitations requires difficult decisions.

Librarians must constantly evaluate the cost-effectiveness of resources, negotiate favorable terms with vendors, and advocate within their institutions for the funding necessary to support STEM research and education adequately. Exploring consortial purchasing agreements and open access alternatives are common strategies.

Budget constraints can impact staffing levels, professional development opportunities, and the ability to invest in new technologies or services. Making the case for the library's value proposition is an ongoing task.

Keeping Pace with STEM Advancements

Science and technology fields evolve at a rapid pace. New research areas emerge, methodologies change, and new data types and software tools become standard. Staying current with these developments across multiple disciplines is a significant challenge for STEM librarians.

This requires a commitment to continuous learning through reading scientific literature, attending conferences (both library and discipline-specific), participating in webinars, and engaging with researchers. Building strong relationships with faculty helps librarians stay informed about current research trends and needs.

Failure to keep pace can diminish the librarian's effectiveness in providing relevant research support and anticipating future information needs. It necessitates proactive effort and often requires specializing in specific STEM areas.

Advocacy and Institutional Support

STEM librarians often need to advocate for the library's role and value within their institutions. Demonstrating the impact of library services on research productivity, student success, and grant funding can help secure necessary resources and administrative support.

This involves collecting data on library usage, user satisfaction, and contributions to research outcomes. Communicating these impacts effectively to administrators, faculty, and other stakeholders is crucial for maintaining visibility and support.

Advocacy also extends to promoting information literacy, data management best practices, and open science principles across the institution. Librarians act as champions for effective and ethical information use within the STEM community.

Navigating Open Access and Publisher Relations

The evolving landscape of scholarly publishing presents challenges. Librarians must navigate complex negotiations with large commercial publishers while simultaneously promoting sustainable open access models. Balancing institutional mandates for open access with existing subscription agreements can be difficult.

Understanding various open access publishing routes (gold, green, hybrid), author processing charges (APCs), and transformative agreements requires specialized knowledge. Librarians play a key role in educating researchers about their publishing options and rights.

This tension between traditional subscription models and the push for open access requires ongoing strategic planning and advocacy at both institutional and broader community levels. Librarians are often at the forefront of these discussions.

Frequently Asked Questions (Career Focus)

Is a STEM degree required to become a STEM Librarian?

While not always strictly required, an undergraduate degree or significant coursework in a relevant STEM field is highly advantageous and often preferred by employers. It provides essential subject knowledge and credibility when interacting with researchers.

Individuals with non-STEM backgrounds can transition into the field, especially if they possess strong technical skills, data management expertise, or experience in a related information role. Demonstrating a strong aptitude and willingness to learn STEM concepts quickly is crucial in such cases.

Ultimately, the combination of an ALA-accredited MLS/MLIS degree and relevant skills/experience is the primary qualification. The specific need for a STEM undergraduate degree varies by position and institution.

What is the average salary range?

Salaries for STEM librarians vary based on factors like geographic location, type of institution (academic, corporate, government), level of experience, and specific responsibilities. Academic librarian salaries often depend on rank (Assistant, Associate, Full Librarian) and whether the position is tenure-track.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for all librarians and media collections specialists was $64,370 in May 2023. Specialized roles like STEM librarians, particularly those in corporate or government settings or with advanced technical skills (like data librarianship), may command higher salaries.

Salary surveys from organizations like the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) or the Special Libraries Association (SLA) can provide more specific data points for academic and special library settings, respectively.

How competitive are tenure-track academic positions?

Tenure-track positions for academic librarians, including STEM specialists, are generally competitive. The number of available tenure-track lines has fluctuated over the years, and institutions often receive numerous applications for each opening, especially at research-intensive universities.

Candidates for tenure-track roles typically need an MLS/MLIS degree, relevant experience, strong communication and interpersonal skills, and evidence of scholarly potential (e.g., publications, presentations). A second master's degree in a STEM field can significantly strengthen an application.

Competition levels can vary by specific STEM discipline and geographic location. Networking, gaining diverse experiences, and demonstrating a commitment to scholarship and service are important for increasing competitiveness.

Can this role transition into data science or IT careers?

Yes, the skills developed as a STEM librarian, particularly in areas like data management, information organization, database searching, and technical support, are transferable to other fields. Roles in data science, data analysis, knowledge management, information architecture, and technical support are potential transition paths.

Librarians focusing on data services, digital repositories, or library systems gain particularly relevant technical expertise. Pursuing additional training or certifications in specific programming languages (like Python or R), database management (SQL), or data analysis techniques can facilitate such a transition.

Highlighting transferable skills like problem-solving, project management, user support, and communication is key when seeking roles outside traditional librarianship.

What are the prospects for remote work?

The potential for remote work for STEM librarians has increased, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic, but it varies significantly by institution and specific job duties. Roles focused heavily on online resource management, virtual reference, online instruction, data services, or scholarly communication may offer more flexibility for remote or hybrid arrangements.

However, positions involving significant in-person instruction, physical collection management, or direct liaison work with on-campus departments may require a substantial on-site presence. Fully remote positions exist but may be more competitive.

Institutional policies regarding remote work are evolving. Prospective applicants should clarify expectations regarding on-site versus remote work during the hiring process.

How does this role differ globally (e.g., EU vs. North America)?

While the core functions are similar, there can be differences in qualifications, terminology, and emphasis. In North America, the ALA-accredited MLS/MLIS is the standard credential. In Europe and other regions, qualifications may vary, sometimes requiring different types of degrees or specific national certifications.

The emphasis on certain areas might also differ. For instance, support for open science and research data management has been a strong focus in European academic libraries, sometimes driven by national or EU-level policies. Terminology might also vary, with roles perhaps titled "Information Specialist" or "Scientific Information Officer" rather than "Librarian."

Funding models, library structures, and the prevalence of tenure systems for librarians can also differ significantly between countries and regions. Understanding these local contexts is important for anyone considering international opportunities.

Helpful Resources

For those exploring this career path, several organizations and resources offer valuable information:

  1. Association of College & Research Libraries (ACRL) - Science & Technology Section (STS): Provides resources, networking, and professional development for academic STEM librarians.
  2. Special Libraries Association (SLA): A global organization for information professionals working in specialized settings, including corporate and government STEM libraries. They have various divisions relevant to STEM fields.
  3. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Librarians: Offers occupational outlook information, including salary data and job growth projections for librarians in the US.
  4. OpenCourser Browse Page: Explore courses related to library science, data management, information technology, and various STEM disciplines.
  5. OpenCourser Learner's Guide: Find tips on leveraging online learning for career development and skill enhancement.

Becoming a STEM Librarian is a rewarding path for those passionate about both information science and the world of science and technology. It requires a unique blend of skills, continuous learning, and a dedication to supporting research and education. By understanding the roles, pathways, and challenges involved, you can make an informed decision about pursuing this dynamic career.

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Salaries for STEM Librarian

City
Median
New York
$97,000
San Francisco
$100,000
Seattle
$123,000
See all salaries
City
Median
New York
$97,000
San Francisco
$100,000
Seattle
$123,000
Austin
$97,000
Toronto
$88,000
London
£49,000
Paris
€53,000
Berlin
€66,000
Tel Aviv
₪141,000
Singapore
S$118,800
Beijing
¥135,000
Shanghai
¥190,000
Shenzhen
¥175,000
Bengalaru
₹450,000
Delhi
₹1,000,000
Bars indicate relevance. All salaries presented are estimates. Completion of this course does not guarantee or imply job placement or career outcomes.

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