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Reference Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Westcliff University

Reference Librarian

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Reference Librarian Western State College of Law at Westcliff is seeking a Reference Librarian. The Reference librarian reports to the Director of the Law Library. Requirements: Key responsibilities ...

Westcliff University

Reference Librarian

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Reference Librarian Western State College of Law at Westcliff is seeking a Reference Librarian. The Reference librarian reports to the Director of the Law Library. Requirements Key responsibilities ...

Westcliff University

Reference Librarian

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Reference Librarian Western State College of Law at Westcliff is seeking a Reference Librarian. The Reference librarian reports to the Director of the Law Library. Requirements Key responsibilities ...

NY History

Reference Librarian

New York, NY · On-site

$70K/yr

Reference Librarian DEPARTMENT: Library REPORTS TO: Director of Library Curatorial Affairs & Research ABOUT THE NEW YORK HISTORICAL New York's first museum, The New York Historical is a leading ...

Howard University

Reference Librarian

Washington, DC · On-site

$48K - $58K/yr

... library catalogs, academic databases, and other online resources. o Answer basic reference questions and escalate more complex inquiries to senior librarians as needed. o Develop faculty research ...

City of Springfield

Reference Librarian

Springfield, MA · On-site

$55K/yr

Position Purpose/Summary Responsible for providing reference and resource information and material and programs to the general public for the City of Springfield's Library Department. Responsible for ...

Howard

Reference Librarian

Library, PA · On-site

$48K - $58K/yr

... reference questions and escalate more complex inquiries to senior librarians as needed. o Develop faculty research support skills. Library Instruction and Information Literacy: o Help prepare and ...

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Reference Librarian information

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$26K

$62.1K

$100.5K

How much do reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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 are reference librarians?

Reference librarians are information professionals who assist library users in finding and accessing the resources they need. They help patrons with research, answer questions, provide guidance on using library catalogs and databases, and may offer instruction on information literacy. Reference librarians work in various settings, including public, academic, and special libraries, and play a key role in helping users navigate both print and electronic information sources.

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

To thrive as a Reference Librarian, you need a strong background in information science, research methods, and typically a Master's in Library Science (MLS). Familiarity with library management systems, online databases, and digital cataloging tools is essential. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and a customer-service mindset help you effectively assist diverse patrons. These skills ensure accurate information retrieval, positive user experiences, and the efficient management of library resources.

What is the difference between Reference Librarian vs Archivist?

AspectReference LibrarianArchivist
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS)Bachelor's or Master's degree in History, Archival Studies, or related field; often MLS/MLIS preferred
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special librariesArchives, museums, or historical repositories
Employer & IndustryLibraries, educational institutions, government agenciesHistorical societies, museums, government archives
Search & Comparison IntentAssisting library users with information retrievalPreserving and organizing historical records and documents

While both Reference Librarians and Archivists work with information and records, Reference Librarians primarily assist library visitors in finding resources within library collections, often in public or academic settings. Archivists focus on preserving, organizing, and managing historical records and documents, typically in archives or museums. Both roles require specialized education, but their work environments and primary functions differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by reference librarians and how can they be addressed?

Reference librarians often face challenges such as staying current with rapidly evolving information resources, managing multiple patron requests simultaneously, and assisting users with varying levels of research experience. To address these, many reference librarians participate in ongoing professional development, leverage digital tools to streamline research assistance, and collaborate closely with colleagues to share expertise. Building strong communication skills and maintaining a user-centered approach also help ensure that each patron receives effective, personalized support.

What Does a Reference Librarian Do?

The responsibilities of a reference librarian include offering reference services to library patrons, including both individuals and groups using reference sources provided by the library. Your job is to recommend, interpret, and evaluate these information sources, create research guides, and assist users with their academic and information searches. You help the library evaluate and develop their reference collection by selecting new sources and removing outdated materials. Other duties include staying updated on new library technology and emerging information, providing presentations on various reference topics, and creating displays promoting particular library collections and services.

More about Reference Librarian jobs
What cities are hiring for Reference Librarian jobs? Cities with the most Reference Librarian job openings:
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Reference Librarian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reference Librarian job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Locum Tenens, 49% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,056 per year, or $29.8 per hour.
Reference Librarian

Reference Librarian

Library Systems & Services LLC

Washington, DC • On-site

Part-time

PTO

Re-posted yesterday

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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