What's Here? - Table of Contents
It is a common misconception that libraries are not subjected to as many visits as would a coffee shop or a food place. Public libraries contribute to the growth and development of the state of Alabama. They are integrated into the very fold of our country’s fabric, and the state of Alabama included.
Why are Libraries important?
Libraries are important for the growth and success of any nation. Contrary to what Alabama’s republican constituents would lead you to believe, it is in fact the educated populace who are making informed and quality decisions in an effort to create a greater well-being for all Alabamans. Education, information, and research are just a few of the offerings of libraries. Libraries all around the globe bring communities together and run programs for the benefit of society.
What makes Alabama’s Libraries unique?
Alabama is home to many great libraries outside of the university systems. The Ben May Main Library of Alabama is known for arranging educational workshops for children and teens. The Huntsville-Madison County Public Library is one of the oldest Public Libraries in Alabama, and offers history programs about the state’s heritage.
The state of Alabama gives a great deal of importance to Libraries. The Alabama Library Association was formed to protect and preserve the libraries and librarians in the state. The mission of the association is to provide leadership for program development, advocate for resources, and voice their concerns towards improving the condition of libraries and librarians in Alabama. It also provides funds and scholarships to students pursuing degrees in the field of Library and Information Sciences.
How much money do Librarians in Alabama make?
Librarians and Library Staff ensure the smooth running of libraries in Alabama. The median annual salary made by a librarian in Alabama is $55,200 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021). Along with this, the job offers several other perks such as medical and health insurance, transportation to and from libraries, yearly bonuses, and accommodation. However, it doesn’t imply that the job of a librarian is easy or is easily attained. Librarians have to acquire at least a minimum of a master’s degree in Library and Information Sciences. They must also have the personal skills to be able to work with a wide variety of people from different backgrounds, socio-economic status and age.
Librarians and Media Specialists Salaries in urban areas of Alabama
| Metro Area | # Employed | Mean Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Anniston-Oxford-Jacksonville, AL | 50 | $54,430 |
| Auburn-Opelika, AL | 60 | $56,820 |
| Birmingham-Hoover, AL | 610 | $56,590 |
| Daphne-Fairhope-Foley, AL | 100 | $54,540 |
| Decatur, AL | 60 | $60,570 |
| Dothan, AL | 60 | $52,560 |
| Florence-Muscle Shoals, AL | 80 | $49,830 |
| Gadsden, AL | 50 | $53,350 |
| Huntsville, AL | 200 | $56,410 |
| Mobile, AL | 140 | $58,810 |
| Montgomery, AL | 230 | $56,960 |
| Tuscaloosa, AL | 100 | $59,320 | Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021 |
Librarians and Media Specialists Salaries in rural areas of Alabama
| Metro Area | # Employed | Mean Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Northwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area | 100 | $49,130 |
| Northeast Alabama nonmetropolitan area | 210 | $51,300 |
| Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area | 120 | $51,120 |
| Southeast Alabama nonmetropolitan area | 120 | $53,900 | Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021 |
Archivist Salary
Archivists also play a great role in managing information and data. An archivist is a professional who collects, organizes, preserves, and manages data, records, and archives. The median annual salary made by an archivist in Alabama is $52,240 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021).
Library Science Teachers Salary
Library Science Teachers in Alabama are responsible for ensuring that new and fresh graduates keep the flow of libraries growing. They are responsible for training prospective librarians who then go on to run the school and public Libraries. Every person associated with libraries contributes to the progress of our culture and society. The median annual salary for library science teachers is $81,870 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021).
Finally, libraries are an important resource in the state. They educate and facilitate the personal and professional growth of all individuals. They preserve history and culture and bring the communities together.