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Reference Librarian Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

US Department of Commerce

Librarian

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$106K/yr

A. Completion of 1 full academic year of graduate study in library science in an accredited college or university, in addition to completion of all work required for a bachelor's degree; OR B. A ...

City of Detroit

Librarian II- Adult Services

Detroit, MI · On-site

$56K - $63K/yr

Description General Purpose Under general supervision, provides general reference and/or specialized customer service within an assigned adult services program area of the Detroit Public Library (DPL ...

Cromaine Library

Substitute Librarian

Hartland, MI · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Provide positive reference and reader's advisory services * Acquaints patrons with the resources of the Library. Gives instructions and assistance in the use of on-line catalog systems, library ...

Cromaine Library

Substitute Librarian

Hartland, MI · On-site

Provide positive reference and reader's advisory services * Acquaints patrons with the resources of the Library. Gives instructions and assistance in the use of on-line catalog systems, library ...

City of Livonia

Substitute Librarian

Livonia, MI

$20 - $22/hr

General office work Readers' advisory service Use of audio-visual materials General reference desk duties. Assist patrons in the use of the library. Assist patrons using electronic library services ...

City of Livonia, MI

Substitute Librarian

Livonia, MI · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

General reference desk duties. * Assist patrons in the use of the library. * Assist patrons using electronic library services, such as CD-ROM, library catalog, or Internet searches. MINIMUM ...

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Reference Librarian information

See Michigan salary details

$22.7K

$54.1K

$87.6K

How much do reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for reference librarian in Michigan is $54,088.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,100.00 and $63,200.00 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 Michigan? The most popular types of Reference Librarian jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Reference Librarian jobs in Michigan? For Reference Librarian jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Reference Librarian jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Reference Librarian jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Reference Librarian jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Reference Librarian job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Reference Librarian jobs in MI? For Reference Librarian jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Reference Librarian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reference Librarian job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,088 per year, or $26 per hour.
On-Call Reference Desk Librarian (Applicant Pool)

On-Call Reference Desk Librarian (Applicant Pool)

Schoolcraft College

Livonia, MI • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Schoolcraft College rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 611 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Job Title
On-Call Reference Desk Librarian (Applicant Pool)
Job Summary
The On-Call Reference Desk Librarian reports to the Associate Dean of Student Success and Retention. The On-Call Reference Desk Librarian facilitates access to information and resources for Schoolcraft College students, faculty, staff, and visitors within the Bradner Library.
The mission of Schoolcraft College is to provide a transformational and inclusive learning experience designed to increase the capacity of all individuals and groups to achieve intellectual, social, and economic goals. We are committed to creating a positive impact on the communities we serve and value diversity in our students, staff, and programming.
Job Duties
  1. Assisting the designated administrator in developing policies related to the procuring and disseminating of electronic and online databases.
  2. Advising the designated administrator on current and future library needs.
  3. Serving as a selector of material for the reference collection; selecting and maintaining library materials appropriate for addition to the library's collection in specified subject areas in consultation with Schoolcraft faculty teaching in the appropriate disciplines.
  4. Assisting with the integrated library system, including system technology.
  5. Serving as coordinator of library orientation programs and Inter-Library Loan Librarian.
  6. Providing orientations/tours/workshops/bibliographic instruction to classes, faculty, students, and other individuals and groups upon request.
  7. Instructing users on how to locate books, periodicals, and how to efficiently use systems, electronic and other non-print resources, to locate reliable information - especially needed for students to write papers, do presentations, give speeches, and be successful in their classes.
  8. Advising users on how to access needed resources in other area libraries and institutions.
  9. Assuming total responsibility for library operations when the only Librarian on duty, including evenings and weekends.
  10. Reporting or recording system data.
  11. Assist with resource inventory and floor management.
  12. Update technology resources such as the library's website
  13. Attending and participating in all scheduled departmental and divisional meetings.
  14. Participating in professional development.
  15. Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications
  1. Masters in Library Science or related degree in field.
  2. One (1) year of experience in higher education libraries, working directly with students.
  3. Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  4. Ability to follow college and department policies, handle frequent interruptions and meet deadlines.
  5. Capable of taking initiative, assuming responsibility and handling confidential information with discretion.
  6. Ability to work independently and contribute to a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications
  1. Extensive experience working at a community college library with diverse student populations.
  2. Excellent skills in Microsoft Office Suite.
  3. Ability to learn new technology quickly.
  4. High level of attention to detail.
  5. Ability to multi-task in a fast paced environment.
  6. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  7. Commitment to working in a team environment.
  8. Available some evenings and weekends

Physical Requirements
Schoolcraft College is committed to creating an inclusive environment and strongly encourages applications from veterans, individuals with varying gender identities, abilities, and from underrepresented populations. Schoolcraft College is an AA/EEO Employer.
  • Writing Skills: Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
  • Language Skills: Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, and governmental regulations.
  • Communication Skills: Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from prospective and current employees, and groups of managers.
  • Mathematical Skills: Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.
  • Reasoning Ability: Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
  • 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.
  • Office Environment: This role may involve being in a stationary position in front of a computer, using a keyboard, mouse (or applicable equipment) and telephone. Communicating and exchanging information with individuals electronically or in person. This role may also involve standing and walking for periods of time, and the use of hands and moving objects of up to 10 lbs., and on occasion, up to 25 lbs.
  • Noise Level: The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

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.
Salary
Starting at $24/hr
Work Hours
Up to 15 hrs/wk, Some evenings and weekends required. This position cannot exceed 23 hours a week.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
ACO218P
Open Date
12/17/2020
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
A current cover letter and resume will be required at the end of the application process. Failure to upload required documents will result in an incomplete application.

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