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Reference Librarian Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Library Specialist, Senior

Decatur, GA · On-site

$20.45 - $32.93/hr

Provides reference assistance at the circulation desk and assists public with computer questions; uses appropriate resources to answer questions in person and by phone; locates library materials ...

Processes or assists in the processing of orders for books, journals, audio-visual materials, Braille and other reference materials. Assists in the promotion of library publicity projects. May assist ...

Processes or assists in the processing of orders for books, journals, audio-visual materials, Braille and other reference materials. Assists in the promotion of library publicity projects. May assist ...

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Reference Librarian information

See Georgia salary details

$22K

$52.4K

$84.9K

How much do reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for reference librarian in Georgia is $52,399.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,800.00 and $61,200.00 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 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.

How much do reference librarians make?

Reference librarians typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $80,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries may also vary based on the type of library and additional certifications held.

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 most commonly searched types of Reference Librarian jobs in Georgia? The most popular types of Reference Librarian jobs in Georgia are:
What are popular job titles related to Reference Librarian jobs in Georgia? For Reference Librarian jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Reference Librarian jobs in Georgia look for? The top searched job categories for Reference Librarian jobs in Georgia are:
What are popular job titles related to Reference Librarian jobs in GA? For Reference Librarian jobs in GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Reference Librarian job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 75% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,399 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Library Specialist, Senior

DeKalb County

Decatur, GA • On-site

$20.45 - $32.93/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Dekalb County (Georgia) rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

725th of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description


Salary Range: $20.45/hour - $32.93/hour Salary Grade: 12 FLSA: Nonexempt
Purpose of Classification:
The purpose of this classification is to perform routine clerical functions and customer service work in support of library operations and services, oversee circulation department activities, and provide lead guidance, direction, and training to less experienced Library Specialists.
Essential Functions:
The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.
Supervises, directs, and evaluates assigned staff; develops and oversees employee work schedules to ensure adequate coverage and control; compiles and reviews timesheets; approves/processes employee concerns and problems and counsels or disciplines as appropriate; assists with or completes employee performance appraisals; directs work; acts as a liaison between employees and management; and trains staff in operations, policies, and procedures.
Organizes, prioritizes, and assigns work; prioritizes and schedules work activities in order to meet objectives; ensures that subordinates have the proper resources needed to complete the assigned work; monitors status of work in progress and inspects completed work; consults with assigned staff to assist with complex/problem situations and provide technical expertise; provides progress and activity reports to management; and assists with the revision of procedure manuals as appropriate.
Supervises circulation of library materials; supervises the processing of new library materials and the withdrawal of outdated items; checks library materials in/out; operates automated circulation system to charge, discharge, and renew books; receives and registers materials from other library systems; assesses condition of returned items and withdraws materials in need of repair from circulation; sorts and shelves books; assists patrons with location of books and publications; answers patrons' questions; receives library materials; trains staff to, and registers, patrons for library cards and other library programs; enters/updates patron information in computer system; collects pertinent data as necessary; checks branch email and incident reports; orders supplies; processes new books; and acts as volunteer liaison and audiovisual liaison.
Provides professional and courteous customer service to Library patrons and the public; greets visitors and directs to areas of library; provides assistance and information related to library services, fees, procedures, city information/directions, or other issues; assists patrons with various library services; researches book titles, book availability, patron records, or related information; reserves materials for patrons; notifies patrons about overdue books, arrival of reserved books, or other issues; assists patrons with use of copy machine and maintains adequate supply of copy paper in paper trays; and collects and records moneys in payment of fines, fees, book sales, or other library services.
Provides reference assistance at the circulation desk and assists public with computer questions; uses appropriate resources to answer questions in person and by phone; locates library materials; provides information on library sources; assists patrons with operation of the internet and other reference databases; assists patrons with setting up email accounts, adding money to library accounts for printing, and completing online applications; and explains resume preparation resources.
Supervises branch in absence of manager and assistant manager; opens and closes building in absence of manager and assistant manager; resolves problems with fines; recognizes and reports facility problems; and cleans public restrooms in absence of custodian.
Prepares or completes various forms, reports, correspondence, library cards, receipts, paperback ledger, door count forms, supply requisitions, time sheets, or other documents as needed.
Minimum Qualifications:
Associate's degree in Library Science or a related field required; three years of experience in library operations or related field; or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills and abilities for this job.
Specific License or Certification Required: Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver's license.

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