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Reference Librarian Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Library Associate

Mead, CO · On-site

$23.50 - $31.79/hr

... a Librarian for further assistance beyond the efforts required of a reference interview. (Essential) 20% - CIRCULATION - Checks out and renews materials; Assists patrons with self-checkout and ...

Library Associate

Mead, CO · On-site

$23.50 - $31.79/hr

... a Librarian for further assistance beyond the efforts required of a reference interview. (Essential) 20% - CIRCULATION - Checks out and renews materials; Assists patrons with self-checkout and ...

Library Technician I

Louisville, CO · On-site

$22.13 - $30.20/hr

... librarian support duties on a scheduled and on-call basis. This position will be scheduled on the adult, children's, teen, and the circulation desk. This position provides assistance with reference ...

New

Library Security Clerk

Aurora, CO · On-site

$18.65 - $23.31/hr

Answers basic reference, reader's advisory, general customer questions, and provides basic computer ... Library background experience is preferred but not required. * Ability to speak Spanish preferred ...

Library Security Clerk

Aurora, CO · On-site

$18.65 - $23.31/hr

Answers basic reference, reader's advisory, general customer questions, and provides basic computer ... Library background experience is preferred but not required. * Ability to speak Spanish preferred ...

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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 Sep 12, 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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,253 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Classified Librarian

Colorado Springs, CO • On-site

Academy School District 20
Education • 1 - 5K employees

Part-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Academy District 20 rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Location:

Aspen Valley High School

Recruiting Start Date:

08/31/2026

This posting will be open at least five (5) days after the recruiting start date.

Estimated Start Date:

08/31/2026Performs activities related to coordinating a library within an elementary school, including ordering and shelving books and materials and maintaining inventory, updating library information, checking out books and materials, and providing literacy guidance and enrichments to students.

The following statements are illustrative of the essential functions of the job and other key duties that may be required. The description may not include all functions performed by the incumbents in various locations. The district reserves the right to modify or change the duties or the essential functions of this job at any time.

  • Reports consistently for work as scheduled

  • Performs other duties as assigned

  • Attains proficient or higher evaluations on established Performance Standards

  • Assists individual students performing activities instructed by a teacher

  • Assists students in finding materials and books in the library

  • Assists teachers in locating materials for classroom, and assembles materials for teachers' use as directed

  • Attends district library meetings

  • Attends meetings and conferences as required

  • Attends pre-job training, ongoing training, and meetings as required during the school year, in order to remain up-to-date on job procedures

  • Carries out instructional programs and lessons in various learning environments as designated in a teacher's lesson plan

  • Checks books in and out with students

  • Collects data for assessment and monitoring purposes

  • Conducts library skills sessions for students

  • Conducts story time for students

  • Coordinates completion of assignments with classroom teachers

  • Creates special displays for library, such as holiday displays, and special events to stimulate student interest

  • Develops and coordinates activities to introduce, orient, and supervise patrons and volunteers to the library

  • Develops and maintains the library collection, including preparation and administration of the library budget; reviewing, selecting, and ordering of new library materials; maintenance of comprehensive and efficient system for cataloging all library materials; weeding of obsolete and worn materials from the collection

  • Maintains all library statists

  • Maintains library, shelves books, and keeps library materials, shelves, and work areas organized

  • Manages a computer-based circulation system

  • Mends and repairs books as needed

  • Orders and tracks films from free and rental film services

  • Follows district polocies for the ordering and processin of all new library materials

  • Participates in, and assists with planning, school-wide programs and initiatives for literacy and Colorado essential skills

  • Performs miscellaneous clerical duties and assists other staff members

  • Processes all inter-library loans

  • Processes and contacts students and staff regarding overdue notices

  • Provides reference assistance to students and staff

  • Supervises students in the use of the various programs on digital devices

  • Supports the school site plan through collaboration with teachers to integrate the Colorado essential skills and through active involvement in the achievement of the school's curricular goals

  • Under the supervision of a teacher, works with small groups of students to reinforce material initially introduced by the teacher

  • Uses the network system in the building

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Ability to adapt to changing technologies and to learn functionality of new equipment and systems

  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing

  • Ability to create, access, input, retrieve, and manipulate information in various software systems

  • Ability to establish and maintain accurate record keeping, document management, and filing systems

  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with individuals from many diverse backgrounds and professions including supervisors, administrators, coworkers, staff, students, parents, and the general public

  • Ability to follow oral and written instructions

  • Ability to greet and interact with the public in a courteous and professional manner

  • Ability to maintain confidentiality

  • Ability to manage simultaneous demands and set clear priorities

  • Ability to perform routine bookkeeping and clerical accounting tasks effectively and efficiently

  • Ability to work days, hours, locations, and assignments as directed by the supervisor within the position responsibilities

  • Ability to work independently without direct supervision

  • Commitment to the education of students as a primary responsibility

  • Communicates effectively with students and adults in a wide variety of settings

  • Computer proficiency including office productivity applications

  • Considerable knowledge of policies, procedures, and overall district functions

  • Demonstrated ability to manage simultaneous demands and set clear priorities

  • Demonstrated ability to work well with others in a team setting

  • Demonstrates citizenship, compassion, courage, discernment, excellence, honesty, hope, integrity, patience, perseverance, reliability, respect, responsibility, and trustworthiness

  • Demonstrates effective organizational and time management skills

  • Detail-oriented

  • Energetic, creative, innovative, flexible

  • Excellent cooperative, collaborative, and problem-solving skills

  • Knowledge of office methods and procedures including appropriate telephone etiquette

  • Knowledge of Special Education, other educational programming, and associated legal requirements as related to the needs of the students assigned to the teacher

  • Promotes a positive climate, culture, and community

  • Strong mathematical and analytical skills

  • Strong organizational, interpersonal, written, listening, and verbal communication skills

  • Student-centered and relationship-focused

  • Understanding of data privacy laws and their implications for the educational community

  • Willingness to participate in ongoing training as required

Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those a staff member typically encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. They are included for informational purposes and are not all-inclusive.

  • The noise level in the work environment may alternate among quiet, moderate, and loud.

  • The incumbent is frequently required to interact in person and through communication methods with the students, public, and/or other staff.

  • The incumbent is required to work scheduled school/work hours and/or days.

  • The incumbent may be required to work extended school/work hours and/or days as directed.

  • Work is generally performed in a school library.

Physical Demands: The following are some of the physical demands commonly associated with this position. They are included for informational purposes and are not all-inclusive. All physical demands, if listed, are considered essential functions

  • Sits, stands, walks, stoops, kneels, and crouches/squats while performing duties

  • Has oral and auditory capacity enabling interaction interpersonally and/or through communication devices

  • Uses eyes, hands, and finger coordination enabling the use of equipment and writing utensils

  • Typical demands require staff to lift and carry up to 20 pounds, and may be higher for some assignments depending on position and student need; climb stairs, ladders, and/or stools; reach, hold, grasp and turn objects; use fingers to operate computer keyboards; feel the shape, size and temperature of objects

Cognitive Functions: The following are some of the cognitive functions commonly associated with this position. They are included for informational purposes and are not all-inclusive. The staff member may be required to analyze, communicate, compare, compile, compute, coordinate, copy, evaluate, instruct, negotiate, synthesize, reason, and use interpersonal skills.

Required Qualifications:

High school graduate -high school diploma or equivalent

Preferred Qualifications:

Library Experience

Compensation Range:

$22.19-23.30

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

20

Hours per Day:

4.0 hour(s) per day

Number of Days per Year:

182 Days M-F

Benefits Eligibility:

Part-time - Regular

For more information on our benefits, please visit Employee Benefits | Academy District 20 (asd20.org).

FLSA Status:

United States of America (Non-Exempt)

How to Apply:
New applicants (including current district staff members) must use the Workday application portal. Documents emailed directly to a supervisor will not be considered for application purposes and will not receive a response. A completed online application also includes the following uploaded documents in PDF format:

  • A current resume

Please do not call to request site visits or interviews at the school/location. Please direct all inquiries via the email address indicated on the posting

Hiring Manager Email:

kita.grinberg@asd20.org

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