What's Here? - Table of Contents
- How Many Libraries Are There in Connecticut?
- What is the Connecticut Library Association?
- How Much Does a Librarian Make in Connecticut?
- What is the Role of Archivists, and How Much Money Do They Make?
- Library Science Teachers
- How Connecticut Library Technicians and Assistants Help Maintain the System?
- Why Are Libraries Worth the Investment?
With the digital revolution and the integration of technology in our life, the print industry has certainly faced some inevitable fallout. However, it still has not decreased the public’s love for reading and libraries.
There has been a misconception that libraries are not often visited anymore. However, as per the review by American Library Association, there are more public libraries than Starbucks in the U.S.; libraries still remain the prestigious hub for knowledge.
How Many Libraries Are There in Connecticut?
There are approximately 192 public libraries and numerous school libraries in the state. In the words of Miguel Cardona, Connecticut Education Commissioner, “outside of classrooms, libraries serve as important resource places by providing students and their families with equitable access to engaging programs, supports, and multimedia learning materials at no cost”.
What is the Connecticut Library Association?
It is an official organization for catering needs, concerns and fulfills the requirements of the Connecticut librarians and library workers such as archivists, assistants, and technicians. The organization was founded in 1891 in New Haven, Connecticut, to promote dialogue and exchange of ideas between different libraries in the state. Since then, it has been dealing with concerns of library workers and requirements of the staff very efficiently.
How Much Does a Librarian Make in Connecticut?
The median annual salary for librarian’s in Connecticut is $70,910 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021). However, the range can be relatively significant between the 10th percentile $38,390 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021) and the 90th percentile $100,310 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021). Salary ranges can vary widely depending on the city and many other important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years they have spent in the profession.
Meanwhile, along with the handsome salary package, the job offers several other incentives such as yearly bonuses, health insurance, transportation, and 401(k) contributions. The benefits of the job are equivalent to other prestigious jobs in the U.S. This shows the importance of the librarian for the state and the influential role they play in contributing to society.
Librarians and Media Specialists Salaries in urban areas of Connecticut
| Metro Area | # Employed | Mean Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT | 440 | $77,090 |
| Danbury, CT | 60 | $79,040 |
| Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT | 760 | $72,470 |
| New Haven, CT | 540 | $69,880 |
| Norwich-New London-Westerly, CT-RI | 150 | $62,030 |
| Waterbury, CT | 80 | $65,400 | Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021 |
Librarians and Media Specialists Salaries in rural areas of Connecticut
| Metro Area | # Employed | Mean Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut nonmetropolitan area | 70 | $55,800 | Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021 |
What is the Role of Archivists, and How Much Money Do They Make?
An archivist is responsible for assembling, analyzing, cataloging, and preserving important historical documents and records. Connecticut archivists median annual salary is $76,510 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021). The range may similarly vary based on many other factors, such as experience and education.
Library Science Teachers
Library Science Teachers in Connecticut have the responsibility of educating each new generation of librarians. They are charged with preparing and inspiring each new librarian. The betterment of society and stability of libraries rely upon the active and passionate participation of Connecticut’s young librarians.
How Connecticut Library Technicians and Assistants Help Maintain the System?
Like librarians, both help in ensuring the smooth operations of the library system. While technicians are responsible for managing all the technology-related tasks, assistants do more work in assisting patrons, organizing library materials and information, and doing administrative and clerical tasks. They can be considered the backbone of the whole library system, without which a library can easily fall into disarray .
Why Are Libraries Worth the Investment?
Libraries bring communities together and add social value to vulnerable populations who might be suffering due to linguistic, cultural, or economic barriers. It enables people in their pursuit of individual, personal and economic growth. That’s why it is crucial to emphasize libraries’ importance and to work to improve the current systems.