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Reference Librarian Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

0.1 Library Media Specialist

KY · On-site

$43K - $57K/yr

Certificate endorsed for school librarian for appropriate position * Bachelors or Master's Degree ... Helps students to develop habits of independent reference work and to develop skills in the use of ...

$20.19 - $26.25/hr

  • Retirement

Provide reference, information and material loan services to patrons of the library. * Place and track orders. * Work closely with library employees providing assistance in processing and fulfilling ...

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Responsibilities include managing literature reviews and reference libraries, analyzing data, preparing background materials and reports, fact checking, and supporting committee activities. The ...

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Reference Librarian information

See Kentucky salary details

$22.6K

$53.9K

$87.3K

How much do reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for reference librarian in Kentucky is $53,898.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,000.00 and $63,000.00 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 Kentucky?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Reference Librarian jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Reference Librarian job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Reference Librarian job openings in Kentucky 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 $53,898 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Music Librarian-Info Lit, Outreach, Machine Learn

University of Rochester

Rush, KY • On-site

$56K - $79K/yr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


University Of Rochester rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

127th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive.
Job Location (Full Address):
26 Gibbs Str, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14604
Opening:
Worker Subtype:
Regular
Time Type:
Full time
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
40
Department:
300070 ESM Sibley Music Library
Work Shift:
UR - Day (United States of America)
Range:
UR URG 109
Compensation Range:
$56,500.00 - $79,100.00
The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job's compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations.
Responsibilities:
The Music Librarian for Information Literacy, Outreach, and Machine Learning serves as the instructor of record for graduate-level music information literacy courses while cultivating an advanced specialization in the impact of artificial intelligence and machine learning on music scholarship and creativity. This role leads strategic outreach and social media initiatives designed to elevate the student experience and raise awareness of library resources throughout the Eastman School of Music and the broader community. The incumbent fosters cross-functional collaboration by partnering with UR Libraries, ESM departments, and transdisciplinary units such as SoundSpace and the Center for Extended Reality to ensure the library meets evolving technological and research needs. Additionally, the position supports general public services and contributes to the field through professional service at the regional and national levels.
Please submit your resume and a cover letter explaining your interest in this role and relevant experience.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Instruction

  • Teaches graduate-level music information literacy courses
  • Performs other instruction such as first year writing seminars, studio visits, and individual information literacy sessions
  • Depending on the needs of the school and expertise of the incumbent, teaches other courses as instructor of record
  • In addition to knowledge of the relevant areas of history and theory necessary to teach those courses, cultivates or maintains an advanced, forward-looking specialization in artificial intelligence, machine learning, large language models, etc. with a focus on their impact on music performance, scholarship, composition, and creativity
Outreach
  • Develops a thoughtful, relevant, and engaging programming strategy to elevate the student experience
  • Coordinates with ESM Academic Affairs, the Student Life Center, and UR Libraries to bring enriching activities to Sibley and library-grounded education to other areas of ESM
  • Develops social media strategies and other outreach methods in coordination with ESM and UR Libraries communications departments to raise awareness of Sibley for students and the broader community
Cross-functional collaboration with the following units
  • Partners with ESM departments and programs such as Technology and Media Production, audio engineering, film and media music, the Writing Center, and others to ensure the library/information needs of users are met
  • Liaises with transdisciplinary centers such as SoundSpace and Center for Extended Reality
  • Participates in University Library committees as appropriate
General public services duties
  • Leads tours of Sibley
  • Serves as a backup for reference (in-person and electronic) interlibrary Loan fulfillment, instruction, and circulation tasks
  • Advises on AI-related research queries and assists with the implementation of AI tools in discover systems
Professional service contributions at the regional and national levels
  • Participates in professional association committees, working groups, task forces, etc. that connect with work at Sibley
  • Presents research in the form of papers, articles, reviews, and similar outputs or equivalent artistic activity in performance and composition
  • Other committee work with departments at the University of Rochester relevant to the position at Sibley
Other duties as assigned
MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
  • Master's in library science from ALA-accredited institution required
  • Master's in music preferred
  • Doctorate in music preferred
  • 2 years of relevant experience in library, music, or technology sector industries required
  • Or equivalent combination of education and experience
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Familiarity with artificial intelligence, large language models, machine learning, and application to music studies; knowledge of music history and theory and facility with major European languages, latest methods of research, music technologies, artificial intelligence, Library of Congress subject headings, library technology applications, discovery systems, ability to work effectively with library and faculty colleagues, and to communicate clearly, both orally and in writing; required

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture to advance the University's Mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create - and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law (Protected Characteristics). This commitment extends to non-discrimination in the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates, for all persons consistent with our values and based on applicable law.

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