How to Become a Librarians and Media Collections Specialists in Iowa
Librarians and Media Collections Specialists in Iowa earn a median salary of $52,780/year, which is 18% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a librarians and media collections specialists takes home approximately $2,077/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a librarians and media collections specialists can afford in Iowa
Becoming a librarians and media collections specialists in Iowa
Meet education requirements
Librarians and Media Collections Specialists positions in Iowa typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Iowa. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many librarians and media collections specialists positions in Iowa require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Iowa licensure or certification
Iowa may require specific licensing or professional certification for librarians and media collections specialistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Iowa Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Iowa
Iowa employs 1,820 librarians and media collections specialists. The highest concentrations are in Des Moines-West Des Moines and Waterloo-Cedar Falls.
Librarians and Media Collections Specialists salary by metro area in Iowa
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines-West Des Moines | $72K | $34.83/hr | 240 |
| Waterloo-Cedar Falls | $66K | $31.84/hr | 90 |
| Iowa City | $64K | $30.8/hr | 170 |
| Ames | $62K | $30.04/hr | 90 |
| Davenport-Moline-Rock Island | $60K | $29/hr | 190 |
| Cedar Rapids | $59K | $28.36/hr | 140 |
| Dubuque | $57K | $27.28/hr | 40 |
| Sioux City | $47K | $22.69/hr | 60 |
Librarians and Media Collections Specialists salary range in Iowa
Librarians and Media Collections Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a librarians and media collections specialists make in Iowa?▼
The median librarians and media collections specialists salary in Iowa is $52,780 per year ($25.37/hr). This is 18% below the national median of $64,320. Salaries range from $28,060 to $81,610.
What are the requirements to become a librarians and media collections specialists in Iowa?▼
Librarians and Media Collections Specialists positions in Iowa typically require Bachelor's degree. Iowa may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Iowa licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a librarians and media collections specialists afford to live in Iowa?▼
At the median salary of $52,780, a librarians and media collections specialists in Iowa would take home approximately $3,489/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 40.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for librarians and media collections specialists in Iowa?▼
The highest paying metro areas for librarians and media collections specialists in Iowa are Des Moines-West Des Moines ($72,450), Waterloo-Cedar Falls ($66,220), Iowa City ($64,060). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Iowa have state income tax for librarians and media collections specialists?▼
Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $52,780 salary, this means roughly $2,583/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.