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Assistant Reference Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Zimmerman Associates, Inc.

$62K - $64K/yr

Reference Librarian Location: Bethesda, MD Schedule: Full-Time, Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-5:00 PM ... As a member of our onsite team, you will assist researchers, librarians, scientists, healthcare ...

Westcliff University

Reference Librarian

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Supervising the Reserve Desk and student library assistants * Creating and maintaining print and electronic reference tools * Contributing to collection development for both online and print ...

Westcliff University

Reference Librarian

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Supervising the Reserve Desk and student library assistants * Creating and maintaining print and electronic reference tools * Contributing to collection development for both online and print ...

Westcliff University

Reference Librarian

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Supervising the Reserve Desk and student library assistants * Creating and maintaining print and electronic reference tools * Contributing to collection development for both online and print ...

Howard University

Reference Librarian

Washington, DC · On-site

$48K - $58K/yr

Responsible for orienting and training student assistants and reviewing their work. NATURE AND ... library catalogs, academic databases, and other online resources. o Answer basic reference ...

Howard

Reference Librarian

Library, PA · On-site

$48K - $58K/yr

Research Assistance: o Assist students, faculty, and staff with finding information, utilizing print and electronic resources, and conducting research. o Provide help with searching library catalogs ...

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Assistant Reference Librarian information

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$10

$26

$53

How much do assistant reference librarian jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant reference librarian in the United States is $26.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Assistant Reference Librarian vs Reference Librarian?

AspectAssistant Reference LibrarianReference Librarian
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS)Master's degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS)
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special libraries assisting patrons with researchPublic, academic, or special libraries providing reference services and research support
Job ResponsibilitiesSupporting reference services, helping patrons locate resources, and assisting with researchLeading reference services, conducting research consultations, and managing information resources

The main difference is that Assistant Reference Librarians typically support reference services and assist patrons under supervision, while Reference Librarians often take on more independent roles, managing complex research inquiries and leading reference activities. Both roles require a Master's in Library Science and are common in similar library settings.

What is an assistant reference librarian?

Assistant Reference Librarians are library professionals who help patrons locate information, conduct research, and use library resources effectively. They support reference librarians by answering questions, providing guidance on using catalogs and databases, and assisting with research projects. Their duties often include organizing materials, teaching users about library technology, and sometimes planning educational programs. They play a key role in ensuring that library visitors have a positive and productive experience.

How does an assistant reference librarian collaborate with other library staff to support patrons?

Assistant Reference Librarians work closely with librarians, circulation staff, and technical services teams to ensure patrons receive comprehensive support. They often coordinate to locate resources, develop instructional materials, and assist with research queries. Regular communication and teamwork help maintain seamless service, especially during busy periods or when handling complex information requests. This collaboration not only enhances the patron experience but also provides valuable opportunities for learning and professional development within the library system.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an assistant reference librarian?

To thrive as an Assistant Reference Librarian, you need a solid understanding of research methods, information retrieval, and a degree in library science or a related field. Familiarity with library management systems, online databases, and digital cataloging tools is typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and customer service skills help you effectively assist patrons and collaborate with colleagues. These competencies ensure efficient access to information, high-quality patron support, and the smooth operation of library services.
What cities are hiring for Assistant Reference Librarian jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Reference Librarian job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Reference Librarian jobs? The most popular types of Reference Librarian jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Reference Librarian jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Reference Librarian jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Reference Librarian jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Reference Librarian jobs are:
Assistant Reference Librarian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Reference Librarian job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,171 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Reference Librarian

Library Systems & Services LLC

Rockville, MD • On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Temporary

PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Temporary
Description
LAC Federal is seeking a Reference Librarian to provide high-quality reference, research assistance, and instructional support to students, faculty, staff, and community patrons through online platforms and at the library service desk. In this role, the Reference Librarian will guide users in effectively navigating library resources, including the online catalog, electronic databases, and print and non-print collections.
Additionally, the Reference Librarian may be responsible for other assigned duties such as gathering and analyzing usage statistics, delivering library instruction sessions, conducting student research consultations, and performing occasional circulation desk functions. Schedule flexibility is required, as the candidate must be available for hours of operation during the fall semester, including the library's evening hours. On rare occasions, if the building needs to close but services are still needed, the employee is expected to work remotely.
Employment Type: Temporary - Part Time/20 hours per week.
Dates of Employment August 31, 2026 - October 2, 2026
Schedule: Schedule may adjust depending on semester schedule:
Monday - Thursday, 4:00pm-8:00pm
Friday, 1:00pm-5:00pm
NOTE: Monday, September 7 - Library will be closed.
Responsibilities
  • Deliver reference and research services to library users both in-person and virtually.
  • Assist patrons in the effective use of library technologies, databases, and research tools.
  • Provide individualized research support to students through consultations.
  • Conduct instructional sessions for classes, faculty, and other library users to promote information literacy and enhance research skills.
  • Maintain knowledge of library collections, both print and digital, to support user needs.
  • Capture and report library usage statistics as directed.
  • Collaborate with library staff to enhance services and contribute to special projects as assigned, such as creating and/or updating library guides and instructional resources.
  • Support circulation functions as needed.
  • Stay current with trends and emerging technologies related to academic library reference services.
  • Participate in professional development activities to maintain and improve knowledge and skills relevant to the role.

Requirements
  • Minimum of one (1) year of recent experience providing reference services in a public, research, or academic library setting.
  • Proficiency with electronic information systems, research databases, and Microsoft Office applications.
  • Familiarity with technologies used in academic libraries for reference and instructional purposes.
  • Strong knowledge of library practices and procedures, including reference and instructional services.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and responsibilities in a dynamic service environment.
  • Strong commitment to customer service and student success.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Academic library experience.
  • Experience with Primo Discovery Service by Ex Libris strongly preferred.
  • Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or equivalent from an ALA-accredited program.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while providing reference, research, and circulation services at a public service desk and conducting virtual or in-person consultations.
  • Ability to use a computer and other office technology for prolonged periods, including frequent keyboarding, viewing computer screens, utilizing library databases, preparing instructional materials, and participating in virtual meetings or remote work as required.
  • Ability to move throughout the library to assist patrons, retrieve and shelve library materials, transport items weighing up to 20 pounds, and perform occasional bending, reaching, and lifting associated with library operations.

Part-Time:
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)

EEO Statement
The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Nothing in this job specification restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently.
Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.
Salary Description
$28-$32

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