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Part Time Reference Librarian Jobs in Washington

Trinity College

Library Associate

Washington, DC · On-site

$18.40/hr

C. is seeking a part-time Library Associate to join our dedicated, service-oriented team. We're ... Reference and Research Support : Assisting patrons in locating and using both digital and print ...

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All JobsReference Librarian JobsPart Time Reference Librarian JobsPart Time Reference Librarian Jobs in Washington

Part Time Reference Librarian information

See Washington salary details

$29.4K

$70.3K

$113.8K

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

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for part time reference librarian in Washington is $70,285.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,100.00 and $82,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Part Time Reference Librarian, and why are they important?

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 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 most commonly searched types of Reference Librarian jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Reference Librarian jobs in Washington are:
Part Time Reference Librarian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Part Time Reference Librarian job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 21% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 63% Nights, and 3% Summer. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,285 per year, or $33.8 per hour.
Reference Librarian

Reference Librarian

Library Systems & Services LLC

Washington, DC • On-site

Part-time

PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Part-time
Description
LAC Federal is seeking a highly qualified Reference Librarian to join our dynamic team. This hybrid position requires an on-site presence of at least 1-2 days per week, from 8:45-5:15, primarily for reference desk coverage as stipulated by contract requirements. The ideal candidate will hold a Master's degree in Library/Information Science or be actively enrolled in a graduate program for this degree. The Reference Librarian will be responsible for helping to provide exceptional reference and research services in the day to day running of the library, including participating in collection development, and contributing to various group projects as assigned by the project manager as well as updating policies and procedures as needed. This role offers a unique opportunity to work in a collaborative environment and make a significant impact on our library services.
Responsibilities:
  • Provide reference services to patrons, including but not limited to research assistance, topical literature reviews, and general questions received via phone, email or in-person.
  • Reference Desk Coverage: Provide in-person and remote reference and research assistance during designated hours.
  • Actively participate in collection development activities including selecting and weeding materials as we as recommend and evaluate print and/or digital resources appropriate for the collection.
  • Participate in collaborative projects such as an annual bibliometrics research, develop content for internal library website and other assigned tasks.
  • Literature Searches: Conduct systematic literature searches and respond to complex reference inquiries.
  • Other Duties: Perform additional duties as assigned by the project manager to support the library's mission and goals.

Requirements
Educational Requirements:
  • Master's degree in Library/Information Science from an institution accredited by the American Library Association, or currently enrolled in such a program.

Required Experience:
  • At least 2 years of experience providing reference and research services in a special or federal library.

Skills and Knowledge:
  • Proficiency in using print and online resources and tools for reference and research purposes. Experience using Ebsco, Scopus, Web of Science, Nexis and/or Westlaw preferred.
  • Proficiency/working knowledge of MS office, Outlook, Teams. Experience with Sharepoint, OCLC and Sirsi preferred.
  • Experience in selecting print and electronic resources for library collection development.
  • Ability to respond to complex reference questions and conduct systematic literature searches.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Self- starter must be able to work independently as well as part of a team.

Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to move from place to place within the location, lifting of items weighing up to (25) pounds and occasional up to 35 pounds such as files, books, stacks of paper, and other materials.
  • Ability to sit for long periods of time and to maintain focus on projects such as computer screens or detailed paperwork.

Benefits
  • 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.

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