ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Reference Librarian Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsReference Librarian JobsReference Librarian Jobs in Indiana

Reference Librarian information

See Indiana salary details

$24.7K

$59.1K

$95.6K

How much do reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 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
Library Media Specialist

Library Media Specialist

Gary Community School Corporation

Gary, IN

$45K - $60K/yr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

PURPOSE STATEMENT

To provide students and staff with an enriched Library Media Center environment containing a wide variety of materials in all formats that will invite intellectual growth and to aid all students in acquiring the skills needed to take full advantage of all Library Media Center resources and to become life long readers and learners.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The list of duties and responsibilities is illustrative only, and is not a comprehensive listing of all the duties and responsibilities performed by this position.

  • Plans and administers the Library Media Center program.

  • Provides a climate that encourages students and staff to take full advantage of the Library Media Center and its resources. 

  • Provides reference and bibliographic services for patrons.

  • Plans cooperatively with teachers to integrate information skill lessons into the curriculum. 

  • Helps students develop skills in locating and using materials independently.

  • Provides reading guidance to students and promotes reading as a life-long activity.

  • Provides staff development for teachers in evaluation, selection and use of materials and equipment.

  • Assists students with the preparation of multimedia presentations.

  • Participates in department meetings, curriculum meetings and other instructional groups.

  • Oversees the annual inventory process.

  • Maintains regular attendance and punctuality.

  • Assists other personnel as may be required for the purpose of ensuring an efficient and effective working environment.

 

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Knowledge of:

  • Library Media Center operations and procedures, computer hardware and software applications used in the Library Media Center (Microsoft Office, Follett Automation, Hyper studio). 

  • Evaluating, selecting and requisitioning new Library Media Center materials that will maintain a balanced relevant collection.

Skill in:

  • Operating computers and peripherals and other audiovisual equipment used in the Library Media Center, working with various learning styles. 

  • Using a computer and related software applications.

  • Using modern office equipment.

Ability to:

  • Assist teachers in the selection of instructional materials and make Library Media Center materials available to supplement the instructional program.

  • Communicate effectively with staff and students, use good judgment in order to solve problems wisely, adapt to changing technologies and educational strategies. 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor's Degree

 

CERTIFICATION

N/A

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Sedentary Work:  Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body.  Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time.  Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally and all other sedentary criteria are met.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required Testing                                                    Certificates & Licenses

  • Drug Test

  • See Above

  • Pre-placement Medical Exam

Continuing Educ./Training                                   Clearances

  • See Above

  • Fingerprinting/Background Clearance



Apply