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Assistant Reference Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Milwaukee

LIBRARIAN I

Milwaukee, WI

... 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 Wisconsin

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 ...

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 ...

STAHL

Librarians

Port Hueneme, CA

The Librarian manages library collections, provides reference and research assistance, and ensures ... Assist users in locating, accessing, and utilizing library and information resources effectively.

Stahl Companies

Librarians

Port Hueneme, CA · On-site

The Librarian manages library collections, provides reference and research assistance, and ensures ... • Assist users in locating, accessing, and utilizing library and information resources ...

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Assistant Reference Librarian information

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$10

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$53

How much do assistant reference librarian jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 3, 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 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.

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 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.

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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,171 per year, or $26.5 per hour.
Collections Access and Reference Librarian

Collections Access and Reference Librarian

Clark Art Institute

Williamstown, MA • On-site

Other

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Salary: $75,668 - $83,635

Position Summary

A core member of the library staff, the Collections Access and Reference Librarian, supervises public services activities including circulation, stacks maintenance and space planning, reference, interlibrary loan, bibliographic instruction, and library outreach initiatives.

Major Duties and Responsibilities (Essential Functions)

  • Provide reference and research assistance to museum staff and research fellows, local faculty, undergraduate and graduate students, and the general public.
  • Develop instructional workshops on research methods and citation management software.
  • Work with the Collections Development Librarian to build the print and electronic reference collections.
  • Develop and maintain subject-specific LibGuides and lists of relevant subscription and open-access electronic resources.
  • Oversee special collections viewing appointments.
  • Provide orientations and bibliographic instruction for new library users.
  • Develop library outreach programs including book talks and group visits.
  • Manage organization of, access to, and long-term planning needs for collections in the librarys open stacks, special collections storage, and offsite storage facility.
  • Establish and update circulation policies and procedures as needed.
  • Monitor security gate detections and work with security department to follow up on materials improperly removed from the library.
  • Coordinate interlibrary loan borrowing, lending, and document delivery.
  • Maintain applicable statistics tracking use of the library and collections.
  • Work with the Collections Management Librarian to develop and maintain the library website.
  • Communicate library hours to security, staff, and public; coordinate carrel assignments and issuance of readers cards.
  • Serve on institute-wide committees and working groups.
  • Attend and participate in relevant regional and national professional and scholarly conferences and meetings.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

  • Supervises the Library Assistant and Collections Management & Access Assistant.
  • Recruits, interviews, hires, and trains new staff.
  • Oversees the daily workflow for their area.
  • Provides constructive and timely performance evaluations.
  • Handles discipline and termination of employees in accordance with Institute policy.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.


Required Skills/Abilities

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong supervisory skills.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Must be able to maintain confidentiality when required.
  • Demonstrated cultural competency skills; demonstrated commitment to the values of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility.


Education and Experience

  • Masters in Library Science or equivalent.
  • Minimum of 5 years relevant experience required.
  • Experience using ExLibris Alma and ILLiad preferred.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Physical Demands:
    • Ability to sit at a desk/workstation and use a computer for prolonged periods of time.
    • Ability to stand for up to four hours.
    • Ability to lift up to 20 pounds occasionally
  • Work Environment: Work will be performed in an office environment and museum spaces. The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate. Some overnight travel may be necessary.