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According to an Idaho government report of 2018, Idaho has 149 public libraries and 12 bookmobiles. Libraries in Idaho are important. It can be verified from the fact that more than 900,000 people have a current library card: almost 52% of the population of Idaho.
Role of libraries in Idaho
Libraries are an important place for students from diversified backgrounds to come and seek knowledge. In 2015, more than 8.6 million people visited public libraries in Idaho.
These libraries are an important part of the state’s education system. Additionally, through these libraries, the public has access to pivotal information that can increase the quality of life for them and open doors to previously unknown opportunities.
Famous public libraries in Idaho
The most famous public library in Idaho is the Coeur d’Alene Public Library. This library is dedicated to lifelong learning and provides free and equal access to a full range of historical, intellectual, and cultural resources. Another famous library is the Lewiston city public library. This library works with the mission to provide free and open access to information to all. They work with the belief that learning and liberty are inseparable and democratic people must have free, equal, and open access to information.
What is the education requirement for a librarian job?
A master’s degree in Library Sciences is required. The preference is from an American Library Association accredited program. School librarians don’t have the same requirements. However, they still have to follow the Idaho School Librarian certification requirements.
What are the salaries of librarians in Idaho?
The median annual salary of a librarian in Idaho is $45,870 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021). The lowest 10th percentile is near $19,430 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021). Whereas the 90th percentile salary range is $77,050 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021). There are a couple of factors that play a decisive role in these salaries. Some of these factors include education attainment, experience, location, and performance of the librarian.
Librarians and Media Specialists Salaries in urban areas of Idaho
| Metro Area | # Employed | Mean Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Boise City, ID | 240 | $45,880 |
| Coeur d'Alene, ID | 50 | $41,990 |
| Idaho Falls, ID | 40 | $41,430 |
| Pocatello, ID | 40 | $52,260 |
| Twin Falls, ID | 40 | $49,600 | Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021 |
Librarians and Media Specialists Salaries in rural areas of Idaho
| Metro Area | # Employed | Mean Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Northwestern Idaho nonmetropolitan area | 70 | $37,450 |
| Southeast-Central Idaho nonmetropolitan area | 90 | $51,840 | Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021 |
What are the salaries of library assistants and archivists in Idaho?
The median annual salary of an archivist in Idaho is . There are additional benefits that come archivists as well as librarians; these benefits include personal and dependent health insurance coverage, dental insurance, paid time off, employee discounts, gym membership, vision insurance, 403(b), 401(k), and an employee assistance program.
Role and importance of library science teachers
The teaching of library science is important as these teachers teach the future generation of librarians and equip them with the knowledge necessary to meet the needs future library patrons. These teachers are also information specialists as they teach students how to access and utilize information. They engage students with the use of different activities and enhance their learning experience.
Libraries are an important part of the state in Idaho. They preserve historical information and facts and serve as a grounding force in our communities. On average, Idahoans pay around $45 a year to support public libraries through taxes – a small price to pay to keep libraries up-to-date and solidify their important and impactful roles.