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Part Time Reference Librarian Jobs in Massachusetts

$20.64/hr

Position Description The Boyden Library is seeking an applicant for the part-time, non-benefitted ... basic reference and readers' advisory service to patrons; interprets library policies and ...

This is an asneeded, parttime essential services position with work contingent upon available ... Use project reference tools and materials developed during the project to ensure accuracy and ...

Part Time Reference Librarian information

See Massachusetts salary details

$28.4K

$67.8K

$109.8K

How much do part time reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for part time reference librarian in Massachusetts is $67,773.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,100.00 and $79,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a part time reference librarian do?

A part time reference librarian assists library patrons in finding information and resources, both in person and online. They help with research, answer reference questions, guide users in using library databases, and may teach information literacy skills. In addition, they often assist with collection development and may participate in library programming or outreach activities. Their part-time status means they typically work less than 40 hours a week, which might include evenings or weekends.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a part time reference librarian?

To thrive as a Part Time Reference Librarian, you need a strong knowledge of library science principles, research techniques, and often a Master’s in Library Science (MLS) or related degree. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), online databases, and digital cataloging tools is typically required. Excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving skills set outstanding librarians apart. These abilities are essential for efficiently assisting patrons, managing resources, and supporting the library’s educational mission.

What are some common challenges faced by part time reference librarians, and how can they effectively manage their workload?

Part-time reference librarians often face the challenge of balancing multiple responsibilities in limited hours, such as assisting patrons, managing research queries, and staying updated on library resources. Effective time management and prioritization are key to ensuring that patron needs are met efficiently. Additionally, clear communication with full-time staff and regular participation in team meetings help part-time librarians stay aligned with library initiatives and changes. Embracing digital tools and maintaining flexibility can further enhance productivity and job satisfaction in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Part Time Reference Librarian vs Part Time Archivist?

AspectPart Time Reference LibrarianPart Time Archivist
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS)Bachelor's or Master's degree in History, Archival Studies, or related field
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special librariesMuseums, archives, or historical institutions
Employer & Industry UsageLibraries serving the public or academic communitiesOrganizations preserving historical records and documents
Common Search & ComparisonAssisting library users with research and resourcesManaging and preserving archival collections

While both roles involve information management, Part Time Reference Librarians focus on assisting library visitors with research and resource navigation, typically in library settings. Part Time Archivists concentrate on preserving, organizing, and providing access to historical records and collections. The choice depends on your interest in public service versus archival preservation.

How to become a part time reference librarian?

To become a part-time reference librarian, candidates typically need a master's degree in library science (MLS or MLIS) from an accredited program. Relevant skills include strong research abilities, familiarity with library management systems, and excellent communication skills; some positions may also require professional certification or experience in customer service. Part-time roles often require flexibility in scheduling and may have specific institutional requirements.

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

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

Infographic showing various Part Time Reference Librarian job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,773 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Research and Learning Services Librarian

Holyoke Community College

Holyoke, MA • On-site

$36.55/hr

Part-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

About Holyoke Community College: Holyoke Community College is housed on a multi-million-dollar, 135-acre campus, equipped with state-of-the art technology in specialized learning facilities. HCC serves over 9,000 students annually, and provides a variety of recreational and cultural activities, from sports programs to music festivals, for students and community members alike. The college's strongest assets continue to be an innovative spirit, a sincere concern for students and a commitment to strive for even greater success.

These are the values which have created a tradition of excellence spanning more than six decades, and which are enabling Holyoke Community College to meet today's challenges. Mission: Educate. Inspire.

Connect. Values: Kindness, Inclusion, Trust, Innovation & Collaboration Kindness, inclusion and trust are the foundation of the work that we do together. Innovation and collaboration enable us to explore and implement the ideas that will shape our future.

The Research and Learning Services Librarian is a part-time professional librarian position responsible for providing research assistance, reference services, library instruction, outreach, and engagement activities that support student learning and academic success. The position works collaboratively with students, faculty, staff, and community users to connect learners with library resources, services, technologies, and learning opportunities. Reporting directly to the Dean of Library Services, the Research and Learning Services Librarian collaborates with library faculty and staff to deliver responsive, student-centered services and contributes to assessment, planning, and continuous improvement efforts that advance the mission and goals of the Library and the College.

This is a part-time, annually renewable position scheduled to work up to 18.5 hours per week during the academic year. The position is expected to work approximately 32 weeks per year, generally coinciding with the fall and spring semesters. Continued appointment is contingent upon institutional needs, available funding, and satisfactory performance

Public Services and Research Support Provides research assistance, reference services, referrals, and general library support to students, faculty, staff, and community users through in-person and virtual interactions. Serves as the primary librarian for reference and public services during assigned hours and contributes to the effective operation of library service points. Assists users in identifying, accessing, evaluating, and effectively using library resources, technologies, and services.

Collaborates with library staff and student employees to provide responsive, student-centered service. Maintains current knowledge of library resources, services, technologies, and policies to support user needs. Instruction and Student Learning Plans and delivers library instruction sessions, workshops, and other learning activities that support information literacy, research skills, and student success.

Collaborates with faculty, librarians, and campus partners to support instruction, student learning, and research success initiatives. Develops instructional materials, research guides, tutorials, and other learning resources. Contributes to the assessment and continuous improvement of instructional services and learning activities.

Outreach and Engagement Participates in outreach, engagement, and programming efforts that connect students with library resources, services, and learning opportunities. Supports initiatives that promote awareness and use of library collections, services, spaces, and technologies. Collaborates with librarians, faculty, staff, and campus partners to advance student engagement and success.

Professional Contributions and Library Operations Participates in assessment, planning, and continuous improvement activities that support the mission and goals of the Library and the College. Attends library and college meetings, trainings, and professional development activities as appropriate. Contributes to special projects, strategic initiatives, and other library activities as assigned.

Maintains awareness of trends, developments, and emerging practices in academic librarianship and higher education. Performs other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications: Master's degree in Library Science; One year experience providing reference and research assistance; One year experience providing library instructional sessions.

Equivalency Statement: We welcome and encourage applicants who do not meet the qualifications as stated above, to put in writing precisely how their background and experience have prepared them for the responsibilities of this position. It is preferred that this document be uploaded separately from the resume, cover letter, and references. Preferred Qualifications: One year or more experience with Archives Management Part-Time, Non-Benefited Position (MCCC Position) Hourly Rate: $36.55 Hours: 18.5 hours/week Funding Source: State Disability Accommodations: Holyoke Community College is committed to the full inclusion of individuals with disabilities and will ensure the availability of reasonable accommodations

If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact the Office of People and Talent at (413) 552-2554. Background Check: Employment is contingent upon the successful completion and review of a background check which will include CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) and SORI (Sex Offender Registry Information). All candidates must have legal authorization to work in the United States.

HCC is not sponsoring H1B Visa. Holyoke Community College is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, age, veteran status, genetic information, gender identity or sexual orientation in its programs and activities as required by Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and other applicable statutes and college policies. The College prohibits sexual harassment, including sexual violence.

Inquiries or complaints concerning discrimination, harassment, retaliation or sexual violence shall be referred to the College's Affirmative Action and/or Title IX Coordinator, the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination, the Equal Employment Opportunities Commission or the United States Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights.