Jobs for book lovers
Paid ways to spend your time with books, and which fit around college.
The short answer
The jobs that pay you to spend time with books are reading mentor, bookseller, library assistant, book reviewer, proofreader, audiobook narrator, book creator and publishing assistant. For college students, the easiest to fit around classes are online and part-time: reading mentoring and proofreading.
Eight jobs for people who love books
What each one involves, and how it fits around college.
Reading mentor
Read a child's own book with them over video and talk it through. Bookstaken pays college students per session as Bookbuddies, 2–3 hours a week.
OnlinePart-timeNo experience needed
See the Bookbuddy roleBookseller
Help readers find their next book in a bookshop, from shelving to recommending.
In personPart-time
Library assistant
Lend and shelve books and help run reading events. College and public libraries hire students.
In personPart-time
Book reviewer
Review new books for magazines, websites or publishers. Paid work usually follows a portfolio of reviews.
OnlineFreelance
Proofreader
Catch typos and slips before a book or article is published. It needs a sharp eye and patience.
OnlineFreelance
Audiobook narrator
Read books aloud for recordings. It takes a clear voice, a quiet room and some recording gear.
Online or studioFreelance
Book blogger or creator
Share what you read on a blog, YouTube or Instagram. Income comes slowly, from sponsorships and affiliate links.
OnlineYour own hours
Publishing assistant
Read submissions and help bring new books to print, usually starting as an intern or assistant.
In person or onlineInternship