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Reference Librarian Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Performs high level readers advisory and reference searches using library resources, on-line databases, and other reputable sources. * Assists customers with accessing and using library resources ...

Library Clerk

Aurora, CO ยท On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

Library Clerk The Library and Cultural Services Departments vision is to empower an environment of ... Answers basic reference, reader's advisory, general customer questions, and provides basic computer ...

New

Primary Purpose Performs general library services to Library customers; provides Library patrons with information and reference services by accessing and demonstrating how to access information ...

New

Primary Purpose Performs general library services to Library customers; provides Library patrons with information and reference services by accessing and demonstrating how to access information ...

New

Library Assistant

Sterling, CO ยท On-site

$15.45 - $20.85/hr

Primary Purpose Performs general library services to Library customers; provides Library patrons with information and reference services by accessing and demonstrating how to access information ...

New

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Reference Librarian information

See Colorado salary details

$27.3K

$65.3K

$105.7K

How much do reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for reference librarian in Colorado is $65,253.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $76,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a reference librarian?

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 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.

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Reference Librarian jobs in Colorado?

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

What are popular job titles related to Reference Librarian jobs in Colorado?

For Reference Librarian jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Reference Librarian jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Reference Librarian jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Reference Librarian jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Reference Librarian job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Reference Librarian jobs in CO?

For Reference Librarian jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Reference Librarian job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,253 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Reference Librarian, Davies

Arapahoe Libraries

Deer Trail, CO โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Reference Librarian, Davies Library

Empower Rural Communities and Programs Through Service and Support

Are you a community-focused librarian who enjoys connecting people with ideas, resources, and one another? Do you love working with all ages and creating welcoming spaces that reflect and serve the local community?
Arapahoe Libraries is hiring a Reference Librarian to support the Davies branch. In this role, you will help ensure our services are responsive, inclusive, and rooted in connection.
This is a people-centered position that focuses on relationships, service, teamwork, and creating meaningful experiences in our libraries.

About the Role

This position supports the Davies Library in Deer Trail and is collocated with the Deer Trail School district. Davies Library is a small footprint with a huge impact. With a robust after-school crowd, this position will facilitate youth and intergenerational programming and services, as well as build relationships, programming, and services with adult and older adult patrons. Davies Library serves as a vital hub for surrounding rural communities, acting as both the Deer Trail School District school library and a public library. You will collaborate with staff, volunteers, and local partners as a public librarian to deliver programs and services that reflect the community's needs. You will also help keep daily operations running smoothly, mentor staff, and step in as Person in Charge (PIC) when needed.

Key Responsibilities

Programming, Outreach, and Volunteer Support

  • Plan and lead programs that bring people together and reflect the interests of your community
  • Support evening and weekend events and help connect our library with schools and partner organizations
  • Work with staff to build strong relationships with teachers and school leaders
  • Help coordinate and support teen volunteers

Patron Services

  • Welcome visitors and offer helpful, friendly support at service desks and on the floor
  • Assist patrons with technology, research, and selecting materials
  • Pitch in on district-wide initiatives like Summer Reading and help your team deliver excellent day-to-day service
  • Easily transition between supporting the school library and leading the public library

Team Support and Mentoring

  • Serve as a steady presence at the branch by opening and closing the library and helping with scheduling and coverage
  • Offer guidance and support to your coworkers by sharing your knowledge and encouraging professional growth
  • Help create a positive team environment by modeling great service and supporting one another

Professional Development

  • Stay curious and connected by learning about new tools, trends, and ideas in the library world
  • Share what you learn with your team to help us all grow and improve

What You Will Bring

A Heart for Service: You enjoy working with people and making a difference in your community.

Flexibility and Professional Judgment: You adapt easily when plans change, respond calmly to unexpected situations, and continue delivering thoughtful, reliable service in a dynamic environment.

Respectful Service to All: You provide welcoming, unbiased service to people from all backgrounds and perspectives, supporting intellectual freedom and equitable access to information for everyone.

Tech Confidence: You are comfortable using and teaching everyday technology and open to learning new tools.

Curiosity and Care: You take initiative, stay organized, and are thoughtful about meeting the needs of others.

Connection to ALD Core Values: You believe in collaboration, equity, and innovation as part of your daily work.

Qualifications

Required:

  • Master's degree in library and information science, or at least two years of library-related experience and a plan to earn your MLIS within three years (application required within six months of hire)
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Experience providing great customer service and working with a variety of people and tasks
  • Intermediate skills using Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, Outlook), familiarity with Microsoft Teams, and a willingness to learn and apply new technologies
  • Ability to work independently, manage time well, and support teams across the Arapahoe Library District

Preferred:

  • Experience offering reference, technology, or advisory services in a library setting
  • Spanish language skills

Who We Are
At Arapahoe Libraries, we are a welcoming, forward-thinking organization that believes in the power of curiosity and connection. Our values of collaboration, equity, and innovation shape everything we do. We believe libraries should reflect and uplift the people they serve, and we are always learning together. "Let's Find Out" is more than our motto. It is how we approach our work every day.

Let's Find Out Together
If you care about helping people, building strong relationships, and being part of a supportive and creative team, we would love to meet you. Join us in serving the Deer Trail and surrounding communities, where your work will make a real difference every single day. Apply today! **Please provide a cover letter with your application**

Inclusion and diversity are part of our values at Arapahoe Libraries.

Qualified applicants who can support the communities we serve are encouraged to apply.



ARAPAHOE LIBRARIES logo

About ARAPAHOE LIBRARIES

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Arapahoe Libraries was established in April 1966 to provide public library service to all residents of Arapahoe County, except those living in the cities of Littleton, Englewood and Aurora. Residents of these cities are served by libraries established prior to 1966 that are funded and maintained by their respective city governments. All Arapahoe County residents, however, are free to use any of the libraries in the county. Residents can also participate in the Colorado Library Card Program, which allows them to borrow items from any participating academic, school and public library in Colorado. Arapahoe Libraries serves a diverse and varied population covering the rural areas of Byers and Deer Trail, the cities of Bow Mar, Centennial, Cherry Hills Village, Columbine, Glendale, Greenwood Village and Sheridan, and the unincorporated areas of Arapahoe County. Arapahoe Libraries is also a major resource for elementary and high school students of the Littleton, Cherry Creek, Sheridan, Byers and Deer Trail School Districts, as well as for those receiving private and home schooling, and students attending local colleges and universities. This map of the Arapahoe Libraries legal service area provides exact boundaries. Funding is provided through a 4.9 property tax mill levy. Any increase in the mill levy must be approved by a vote of the people. Other revenue sources include income from specific ownership tax, grants and interest on investments. A non-profit Arapahoe Library Friends Foundation was established in 1990 to raise additional money from the private sector and to serve as an advocacy group for Arapahoe Libraries. The Foundation and its partner, The Friends of Arapahoe Libraries, which was established in 1995, support a variety of library programs and services.

Industry

Libraries and archives

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Englewood, CO, US

Year founded

1966

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