Job Title

Children’s Librarian

Expected Annual Pay (Texas)

$48,000

Average salary range

Job Outlook (Texas)

+12%

Employment growth

Level of Education Required

Master’s degree (Master of Library Science (MLS) or Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS)

Minimum requirement

Credentials or Licenses Required

Most Children's Librarians in Texas public libraries have a master's degree in library and information science. Those working in schools may also need a Texas teaching certificate and school librarian certification.

Licenses / Certificates

Work Experience Typically Required

Experience working with children and families is often preferred and may be gained through libraries, schools, child care programs, camps, museums, after-school programs, or community organizations serving youth.

Related experience needed

What is this role responsible for day to day?

A children’s librarian supports early literacy, learning, and family engagement by developing age‑appropriate library services and programs. Day‑to‑day responsibilities may include:

  • Planning and delivering early literacy programs such as storytimes and learning activities
  • Selecting and maintaining age‑appropriate books and materials
  • Supporting children and families in accessing library resources
  • Collaborating with schools, early childhood programs, and community partners
  • Promoting reading, language development, and library use
  • Maintaining organized collections and accurate records

Career Snapshots

Explore different career paths within education and find the one that fits your passion

Caroline

Caroline

Caroline began her career as an early childhood teacher, where she developed expertise in child development, early literacy, and family engagement. After earning a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) degree, she transitioned into children’s librarianship at a local elementary school to reach more children and families through books, programs, and learning experiences. She plans to stay in the role long-term.

Mark

Mark

Mark started as a library assistant while completing his education and quickly discovered a passion for working with children and families. After earning his MLIS, he became a Children’s Librarian and now creates engaging programs that encourage reading, creativity, and exploration. He envisions advancing into a Youth Services Manager role, where he can help shape children’s programming across multiple library branches.

Sofia

Sofia

Sofia entered the field after several years in an early childhood coaching position, building partnerships with schools, early learning programs, and community organizations. Recognizing the important role libraries can play in children’s learning, she earned an MLIS and moved into children’s librarianship. She sees this role as a pathway to library leadership and hopes to leverage her coaching and community collaboration skills to improve youth services initiatives at the regional level.

What are some skills or personal traits that people in this role typically have?

People in this role are creative, organized, and strong communicators. They enjoy working with children and families and are committed to promoting literacy and lifelong learning.

What are some jobs that people had earlier in their careers?

People in this role often previously worked as:

People in this role often previously worked as:

  • Library Assistant or Library Technician
  • Early Childhood Educator or Teacher
  • Youth Program or Community Services Staff

What are some jobs that people in this role have later in their careers?

With experience, people in this role may move into:

With experience, people in this role may move into:

  • Library Manager or Branch Supervisor
  • Youth Services or Programming Director
  • District‑ or System‑Level Library Leadership Roles