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Part Time Reference Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This part time professional role provides and promotes effective delivery of virtual reference ... Promote library services and instruction. * Troubleshoot technical library problems with learners ...

This part time professional role provides and promotes effective delivery of virtual reference ... Promote library services and instruction. * Troubleshoot technical library problems with learners ...

Part Time Librarian

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$37.62 - $48.02/hr

Conducts effective reference interviews to assess and satisfy customer information needs ... part-time Library Clerks, Library Technicians, other support staff, and library volunteers.

Part-Time Librarian

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23.37/hr

Staffs the reference desk, and assists all library users in identifying and locating electronic and print materials, and solving research problems. * Provides information literacy instruction to ...

Showing results 21-40

Part Time Reference Librarian information

See salary details

$26K

$62.1K

$100.5K

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

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for part time reference librarian in the United States is $62,056.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $72,500.00 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 cities are hiring for Part Time Reference Librarian jobs?

Cities with the most Part Time 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 Part Time Reference Librarian jobs?

States with the most job openings for Part Time Reference Librarian jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Part Time Reference Librarian jobs?

For Part Time Reference Librarian jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Part Time Reference Librarian job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,056 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

PT Reference Librarian (On-site)

Chicago, IL • On-site

DePaul University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

$26.65/hr

Part-time

PTO

Posted 26 days ago


DePaul University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description


The Highlights:

The Reference Librarian is responsible for providing research help to library users during weekday, weekend, or evening hours as scheduled as well as information literacy instruction for the first-year writing program.

The Reference Librarian will work in a highly-supportive and collegial culture that encourages active participation in meaningful and valuable skills training and professional development.  This includes cross-training to support colleagues when needed  at our Access Services desk. Participation in workshops, committees and engagement in programs that support the Library's mission and its inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility goals, while building connections and partnerships across DePaul's wider academic and user community is strongly encouraged.

What You'll Do:

  • Research Assistance and Instruction: Provides research assistance and one-to-one instruction to library users online and in-person. Provides information literacy instruction online and in-person for the first-year writing program.
  • Collaboration: Works cooperatively with other library and university departments to provide materials and services for faculty, students, staff and other affiliated users.
  • Project Work: Works on specific assigned projects, such as the creation and maintenance of online research guides, and/or other instructional support.
  • Supervise and mentor student workers: Depending on scheduling, may be responsible for opening and/or closing the Reference Department or Library site, and/or supervising student assistants.

What You'll Need:

  • ALA-Accredited MLS degree required.
  • Reference experience in an academic setting is preferred.
  • Familiarity with academic library resources required.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills required.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate and effectively interact with people across cultural identities and foster an inclusive, equitable, and welcoming environment.
  • This position is part-time, currently at 15-20 hours per week. Hours are set at the start of each academic quarter in line with the needs of the department. Evening and weekend hours will be required.
  • This position is based at the John T. Richardson Library in Lincoln park; occasional travel to the Loop campus may be required.
  • This position is fully on-site.

The anticipated hiring range for this position is: $26.65/hr

The salary range provided in this posting reflects what we reasonably expect to pay for this position. Actual compensation offered or earned is dependent on experience, education and other factors including departmental budget.


Perks:

  • Working for a stable and well-known University.
  • Paid time off
  • Part-Time Benefits

For consideration, please include a resume and cover letter.

Vincentian Mission:
Guided by an ethic of Vincentian personalism and professionalism, DePaul compassionately upholds the dignity of all members of its diverse, multi-faith, and inclusive community. We seek to hire collaborative, open-minded, and dedicated professionals who are committed to advancing our university mission to making education accessible to all, with special attention to including underserved and underrepresented communities. Successful candidates thrive in an environment where ideas and perspectives representing a wide variety of cultures, backgrounds and experiences are welcome and supported.

Required Background Check:

Employment at DePaul University is contingent on passing a background check. Only final candidates who are extended an offer of employment will undergo a background check.


DePaul University is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, genetic information or any other legally protected status, in accordance with applicable federal, state and local EEO laws.


 


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