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Assistant Reference Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Milwaukee

LIBRARIAN I

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

... reference inquiries. Staff and provide excellent service at public information desks, assisting patrons with inquiries, research, and library resources. Assist and instruct patrons in the use of ...

City of Milwaukee

LIBRARIAN III

Milwaukee, WI

The Milwaukee Public Library (MPL) offers a dynamic, innovative work environment where each ... Reference, Readers' Advisory and Customer Service Assist adults, young adults, and children in the ...

City of Garland Texas

Librarian

Garland, TX

$51K - $65K/yr

Provide reference assistance, readers' advisory services, and technology instruction to patrons. * Assist in assessing community needs and developing library services and programs. * Instruct patrons ...

Triton College, IL

Librarian

River Grove, IL · On-site

$27/hr

The Reference Librarian is directly responsible to the Chairperson of the Library. * Provides ... Recommend, interpret, evaluate, and use information resources to assist students and patrons with ...

V2X

Librarian Tech CBA-TPS

Patuxent River, MD · On-site

$36.31/hr

... reference. Responsibilities Assist librarians by helping readers in the use of library catalogs, databases, and indexes to locate books and other materials; and by answering questions that require ...

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How much do assistant reference librarian jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 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 are Assistant Reference Librarians?

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 typically 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Reference Librarian, and why are they important?

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
On-Call Reference Desk Librarian (Applicant Pool)

On-Call Reference Desk Librarian (Applicant Pool)

Schoolcraft College

Livonia, MI • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Provide reference and instructional services to library users, including orientations, tours, workshops, and bibliographic instruction.

  • Select and maintain materials for the reference collection in specified subject areas in consultation with faculty.

  • Assume total responsibility for library operations when the only librarian on duty, including evenings and weekends.

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Job Title
On-Call Reference Desk Librarian (Applicant Pool)
Job Summary
The On-Call Reference Desk Librarian reports to the Associate Dean of Student Success and Retention. The On-Call Reference Desk Librarian facilitates access to information and resources for Schoolcraft College students, faculty, staff, and visitors within the Bradner Library.
The mission of Schoolcraft College is to provide a transformational and inclusive learning experience designed to increase the capacity of all individuals and groups to achieve intellectual, social, and economic goals. We are committed to creating a positive impact on the communities we serve and value diversity in our students, staff, and programming.
Job Duties
  1. Assisting the designated administrator in developing policies related to the procuring and disseminating of electronic and online databases.
  2. Advising the designated administrator on current and future library needs.
  3. Serving as a selector of material for the reference collection; selecting and maintaining library materials appropriate for addition to the library's collection in specified subject areas in consultation with Schoolcraft faculty teaching in the appropriate disciplines.
  4. Assisting with the integrated library system, including system technology.
  5. Serving as coordinator of library orientation programs and Inter-Library Loan Librarian.
  6. Providing orientations/tours/workshops/bibliographic instruction to classes, faculty, students, and other individuals and groups upon request.
  7. Instructing users on how to locate books, periodicals, and how to efficiently use systems, electronic and other non-print resources, to locate reliable information - especially needed for students to write papers, do presentations, give speeches, and be successful in their classes.
  8. Advising users on how to access needed resources in other area libraries and institutions.
  9. Assuming total responsibility for library operations when the only Librarian on duty, including evenings and weekends.
  10. Reporting or recording system data.
  11. Assist with resource inventory and floor management.
  12. Update technology resources such as the library's website
  13. Attending and participating in all scheduled departmental and divisional meetings.
  14. Participating in professional development.
  15. Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications
  1. Masters in Library Science or related degree in field.
  2. One (1) year of experience in higher education libraries, working directly with students.
  3. Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  4. Ability to follow college and department policies, handle frequent interruptions and meet deadlines.
  5. Capable of taking initiative, assuming responsibility and handling confidential information with discretion.
  6. Ability to work independently and contribute to a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications
  1. Extensive experience working at a community college library with diverse student populations.
  2. Excellent skills in Microsoft Office Suite.
  3. Ability to learn new technology quickly.
  4. High level of attention to detail.
  5. Ability to multi-task in a fast paced environment.
  6. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  7. Commitment to working in a team environment.
  8. Available some evenings and weekends

Physical Requirements
Schoolcraft College is committed to creating an inclusive environment and strongly encourages applications from veterans, individuals with varying gender identities, abilities, and from underrepresented populations. Schoolcraft College is an AA/EEO Employer.
  • Writing Skills: Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
  • Language Skills: Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, and governmental regulations.
  • Communication Skills: Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from prospective and current employees, and groups of managers.
  • Mathematical Skills: Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.
  • Reasoning Ability: Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
  • Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Office Environment: This role may involve being in a stationary position in front of a computer, using a keyboard, mouse (or applicable equipment) and telephone. Communicating and exchanging information with individuals electronically or in person. This role may also involve standing and walking for periods of time, and the use of hands and moving objects of up to 10 lbs., and on occasion, up to 25 lbs.
  • Noise Level: The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Salary
Starting at $24/hr
Work Hours
Up to 15 hrs/wk, Some evenings and weekends required. This position cannot exceed 23 hours a week.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
ACO218P
Open Date
12/17/2020
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
A current cover letter and resume will be required at the end of the application process. Failure to upload required documents will result in an incomplete application.

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