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Assistant Reference Librarian Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Director, Libraries

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$72K - $91K/yr

Personal references (friends, clergy, customers, relatives) are not considered acceptable ... Provide budget updates and make recommendations to the dean and assistant dean. 10% Partnerships ...

Administrative Functions • Assist in planning, developing, organizing, implementing, evaluating ... reference library of written materials, laws, diet manuals, etc. necessary for complying with ...

Veterinary Assistant

Powell, TN · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Run in-house lab testing and prepare samples for reference labs * Take and assist with diagnostic ... Our vast, diverse, and free library of continuing education courses - ThriveU * Live, virtual ...

Run in-house lab testing and prepare samples for reference labs * Take and assist with diagnostic ... Our vast, diverse, and free library of continuing education courses - ThriveU * Live, virtual ...

Showing results 21-40

Assistant Reference Librarian information

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.

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.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Reference Librarian jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Reference Librarian jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Reference Librarian jobs in Tennessee?

For Assistant Reference Librarian jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Reference Librarian jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Reference Librarian jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Assistant Reference Librarian jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Assistant Reference Librarian job openings:

$72K - $91K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Oversee the administration of the library department, including personnel management, budget oversight, and library operations.

  • Lead the development and implementation of a strategic plan for the libraries and assess departmental services, collections, and spaces.

  • Manage library staff, including recruiting, supervising, mentoring, evaluating, and promoting faculty librarians.


Job description

Director, Libraries

Apply now Job no: 504442
Work type: Faculty Full-Time
Location: Knoxville
Categories: Faculty

Title: Director, Libraries

Department: Libraries

Classification:  3m Campus Mobile

Pay Rate: $72,930-$91,680/per year. Pay will be determined based on related work experience above required. To be considered in determining pay, all related work experience must be listed on the application.

Required Documents Needed to Upload at Time of Application: Resume, transcripts and three professional references.

Reference check requirements: Three (3) professional references, two (2) of which should be former or current supervisors and (1) professional reference.

Personal references (friends, clergy, customers, relatives) are not considered acceptable references.

A professional reference such as a previous or current co-worker may be used as one of the references.

Position Summary: Reporting to the dean of the School of Academic Advancement, the Director of Libraries will establish a shared vision that aligns with the larger vision for the College as detailed in the strategic plan and oversee progress towards its goals. This position is a member of the School of Academic Advancement's senior leadership team (which includes the directors of the Academic Testing Center, Academic Tutoring Center, and Exploratory Studies), and is responsible for providing strong leadership in the administration of the Pellissippi State Libraries, including personnel management, budget oversight, and all library operations.  The director is expected to provide effective advocacy both externally and across the College, to participate in policy development, and to promote initiatives within the College, the community, and with other institutions.

Essential Functions:

30% Administration and Planning

Lead the department's development of a strategic plan that aligns with the goals and values of the institution and oversee its progress. Oversee operations at each campus libraries; lead the planning for and assessment of the department's services, collections, and spaces; supervise the curation of collections as defined by the Libraries' Collection Development Policy; create, modify, assess, and cease departmental programs to meet the emerging needs of the college community; identify opportunities for improvement and make recommendations to the dean and assistant dean; recommend, administer, revise, and make exceptions to  policies and procedures as necessary; represent the dean as requested.

25% Personnel

Recruit, hire, supervise, mentor, and evaluate faculty librarians. Assess and monitor workloads and internal reporting relationships; promote professional development opportunities; meet regularly with faculty librarians and staff to provide feedback and share information; assign projects. Administer performance evaluations and make recommendations for promotion and tenure.

15% Budget

Develop and administer the department's budget; approve expenditures for collections, services, technology lending, programming, temporary, part-time employees, travel and professional development, equipment, materials, and supplies. Provide budget updates and make recommendations to the dean and assistant dean.

10% Partnerships

Foster collaborative partnerships across the school, Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, and External Affairs to align academic and support services for students. Actively engage with library deans and directors across the state, particularly those who lead TBR libraries, to stay abreast of state-wide issues and trends and to share best practices. Identify community partners with whom the Libraries can offer services and/or programming.

10% Committee Service

Participate in departmental, college, state, regional, and national committees and projects and in departmental meetings and activities as assigned.

8% Facilities Oversight

Monitor space and building conditions at each campus libraries to ensure compliance with safety and accessibility standards; lead the Libraries' participation in space planning, renovation, and building projects; oversee large-scale space or building projects in coordination with the college's Facilities department; approve requests and coordinate after-hours access to library spaces with Facilities and Campus Police; collaborate with Campus Police to ensure the safety or public and staff areas; oversee the quality of furnishings and make recommendations for purchase or replacement; collaborate with Information Technology to provide technology-enhanced spaces; follow up with Facilities to address cleanliness issues and outstanding work orders.

2% Professional Development

Attend and participate in professional group meetings, stay informed of new trends and innovations in the field, and make contributions to professional literature.

As needed

Instruction, Reference, Collection Development

Participate in performing library services activities, including reference desk services, library and research instruction, and collection development activities only as needed.

As needed

Other duties as assigned to fulfill the strategic priorities and mission of the College.

Job Requirements:

Required:

ALA-accredited MLS/MLIS/MIS and supervision/management experience in higher education.

Minimum qualifications include an MLS/MLIS/MIS degree from an ALA-accredited program at time of appointment and the ability to meet college criteria for a tenure-track position. At least 5 years of academic library experience with at least 2 years of management and/or supervisory experience.

Part-time work experience is calculated at 50% credit of full-time work experience.

The College reserves the right to assign every employee work that fulfills the strategic priorities and mission of the College.   

Skills/Abilities:

  • Demonstrated commitment to user-centered services, collections, and spaces.
  • Coordination of the work of faculty (or institutional equivalent), and staff.
  • Management of complex projects while balancing competing priorities and meeting deadlines.
  • Establishment of effective partnerships.
  • Design, implementation, and assessment of services.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently, prioritize tasks effectively, and track progress against strategic objectives.
  • Capable of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to support strategic decision-making and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Proficient in monitoring budget expenditures, forecasting needs, and identifying potential cost efficiencies to support the dean's financial planning.
  • Strong understanding of student needs and barriers to success, especially for the community college population.
  • Experienced in overseeing day-to-day administrative functions, including workflow management, process improvement, and scheduling to ensure department efficiency.
  • Tolerance for ambiguity and managing expectations.
  • Provision of research and instructional services and collection development.
  • Able to engage in the college's mission and values.

.

Physical Demands: 

  • Requires stamina for extended work hours. 
  • Requires the ability to receive and process verbal communication during meetings and interactions.
  • Requires the ability to review and interpret electronic and printed information, including written documents and numerical data.
  • Requires extended screen time, walking, sitting, and occasional travel.
  • Requires working in a standard office environment with fluorescent lighting, office furniture, central heating, and air conditioning. 

Hazards:

The work environment presents minimal risk of injury or illness; however, as a public-facing position, there is potential for interactions involving disruptive or volatile behavior.

Full-time Employment Benefits:

  • Insurance Options: Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Short/Long-term Disability, FSA/HSA 
  • Wellness Incentive Program, if enrolled in health plan
  • Educational Assistance: Fee Waiver, Spouse/Dependent discounts, Audit/Non-Credit, Reimbursement Program
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Retirement Options: Tennessee traditional pension plan option (TCRS), 401k with $100 company match, 457, 403b
  • Employee Discount program with over 900+ companies
  • 14 Paid Holidays/Year Includes paid days off the last week of December
  • Sick Leave Bank
  • Longevity Pay
  • Many opportunities for professional development

Special Instructions to Applicants: To be considered for a position at Pellissippi State, you must create an on-line application. Your skills, abilities, qualifications, and years of experience will be evaluated using only what is recorded on your application. Work experience that is not listed on the application will not be considered towards compensation. Please note: attaching a resume does not substitute for completion of the application form. Part-time work experience is calculated at 50% of full-time experience. Please note: to scan, upload, or attach documents, a computer and scanner are available at the Hardin Valley Campus Educational Resources Center, if needed.

Pellissippi State Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity or national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, pregnancy, disability, age (40+), status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or any other class protected by Federal or State laws and regulations and by Tennessee Board of Regents policies concerning all employment and education programs and activities. View the nondiscrimination policy. For questions or concerns, please contact George Underwood at gtunderwood@pstcc.edu or 865-539-7354.

If you have any problems or questions please contact Human Resources at Pellissippi State Community College's Human Resource Office at 865-694-6607 or by email at recruiting@pstcc.edu.

If you are interested in this position, click on Apply located below or Apply Now in the upper right-hand corner. 

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Advertised: 23 Jun 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:

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