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Reference Librarian Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Saint Mary's College

Library Faculty

Notre Dame, IN

... an adjunct librarian (instruction and reference, part time) for the first half of the Fall 2026 semester. Qualifications: * ALA-accredited Master of Library Science or equivalent degree, or ...

Saint Mary's College

Library Faculty

Notre Dame, IN · On-site

... an adjunct librarian (instruction and reference, part time) for the first half of the Fall 2026 semester. Qualifications: * ALA-accredited Master of Library Science or equivalent degree, or ...

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Reference Librarian information

See Indiana salary details

$24.7K

$59.1K

$95.6K

How much do reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for reference librarian in Indiana is $59,051.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,100.00 and $69,000.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Reference Librarian jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Reference Librarian jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Reference Librarian jobs in Indiana? For Reference Librarian jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Reference Librarian jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Reference Librarian jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Reference Librarian jobs in IN? For Reference Librarian jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Reference Librarian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reference Librarian job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Locum Tenens, 43% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,051 per year, or $28.4 per hour.
Reference and Instruction Librarian

Reference and Instruction Librarian

Indiana Wesleyan University

Marion, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Indiana Wesleyan University rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 611 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Reference and Instruction Librarian
Job no: 494850
Work type: Administrative (Full Time)
Location: Marion, IN
Categories: Administrative/Professional, Other
Job Title: Reference and Instruction Librarian
Reporting Relationship: Dean of University Libraries
Unit: IWU - Marion
Department: Library
Campus Location: Jackson Library - Marion, IN
Summary of Position: The Reference and Instruction Librarian is responsible for planning, providing, and assessing information literacy instruction and research support to the IWU-Marion, National and Global, and Wesley Seminary communities.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Operational
    • Designs and delivers engaging information literacy instruction sessions
    • Create custom learning materials (Personalized Search Plans, tutorials, videos) for users
    • Provide personalized research consultations via in-person appointments, email, phone, and Microsoft Teams video calls for undergraduate through doctoral students
    • Oversee the acquisition and delivery of library resources to the support the needs of students, faculty, and staff
  • Strategic
    • Serve as one of Jackson Library's leading advocates for ethical and responsible use of generative AI tools in academic research
    • Develop workshops that promote AI literacy and academic integrity
    • Participate in assessment, strategic planning, and cross-functional collaboration that demonstrates University Libraries' effect on student success, retention, and university learning outcomes
  • Personnel
    • Build faculty partnerships, advocate for research skills integration into course design and delivery, and lead outreach to departments with low or no library engagement
    • Collaborate with the Senior Reference Librarian to recruit, hire, train, and evaluate Student Research Assistants
    • Collaborate with academic leaders, course writers, instructional designers, program directors, and university librarians to develop and provide access to needed library resources
  • Content & Curriculum
    • Work with faculty and library colleagues to ensure alignment of library holdings with curricula
    • Assist with Jackson Library collection development, including print, media, and electronic resources
  • Professional Development
    • Stay current on library science research, implement needed improvements, and make recommendations to enhance services provided to students, faculty, and staff
    • Actively engage in library services professional organizations regionally and nationally
    • Maintain intellectual vitality by way of scholarly output and professional presentations at conferences and in other venues
  • Representational
    • Represent University Libraries on various councils and committees
  • Complete other duties as assigned

Qualifications: According to Indiana Wesleyan University employment policy all employees must possess a strong Christian commitment and adhere to the standards outlined in the IWU Community Lifestyle Statement.
Education
  • Master's degree required from an ALA accredited library and information science program; second master's degree in an IWU-offered discipline preferred

Experience
  • Minimum of two or more (2.5) years' experience working in a university library system
  • Experience in providing information literacy and professional reference services in an academic setting using emerging and traditional technologies
  • Experience working with diverse clientele, stakeholders, and colleagues

Required Skills
  • Excellent interpersonal communication skills (verbal, written, and nonverbal).
  • Strong commitment to public services
  • Able to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively
  • Vibrant and personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and willing to sign a statement of faith in The Wesleyan Church tradition

IWU Kingdom Diversity Statement
IWU, in covenant with God's reconciling work and in accordance with the Biblical principles of our historic Wesleyan tradition, commits to build a community that reflects Kingdom diversity. We will foster an intentional environment for living, teaching and learning, which exhibits honor, respect, and dignity. Acknowledging visible or invisible differences, our community authentically values each member's earthly and eternal worth. We refute ignorance and isolation and embrace deliberate and courageous engagement that exhibits Christ's commandment to love all humankind.
LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER
As a religious educational institution operating under the auspices of The Wesleyan Church, Indiana Wesleyan University is permitted and reserves the right to prefer employees on the basis of religion (42 U.S.C., Sections 2000e-1 and 2000e-2).
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. Employees will be required to follow other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor in compliance with Federal and State Laws.
Advertised: 19 Feb 2026 US Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: 27 Sep 2026 US Eastern Daylight Time
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