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Reference Librarian Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

asrcfh

Reference Librarian

Ann Arbor, MI

Agile Decision Sciences (ADS,) a subsidiary of ASRC Federal, is seeking a Reference Librarian to support our nationwide contract providing library and records management services to the US ...

ASRC Federal Holding

Reference Librarian

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

Deliver in-depth reference and research support services to EPA researchers and staff, including daily provision of virtual reference services and interlibrary loan. * Contribute to other library ...

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 Aug 10, 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 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.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 9% 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.

Reference Librarian

asrcfh

Ann Arbor, MI

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Agile Decision Sciences (ADS,) a subsidiary of ASRC Federal, is seeking a Reference Librarian to support our nationwide contract providing library and records management services to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  We offer a culture that provides professional development and team collaboration. 

Responsibilities:

  • Deliver in-depth reference and research support services to EPA researchers and staff, including daily provision of virtual reference services and interlibrary loan.
  • Contribute to other library programs and services including research impact, library instruction, marketing and outreach, knowledge management projects, or cataloging.
  • Participate in the development of innovative library services (research impact analysis, data visualization, systematic reviews, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and other potential new areas of service).
  • Complete reporting duties, departmental statistics, and documentation as required by the contract and library operating procedures.

Requirements:

  • MS in Library Science, Information Science, or related field.
  • Minimum 2-4 years of professional experience in a library which includes three (3) years of providing reference and research services.  Candidates should have experience  in scientific research settings; prefer experience with special libraries and/or federal government special library experience.
  • Experience with commonly used research tools and databases in those fields (PubMed, Web of Science, D&B Finance Analytics, etc.).
  • Experience with Alma, EndNote, and other library tools and skills (scholarly publishing, programming, SharePoint management, data visualization, collection management, etc.).
  • Experience formatting documents and checking for 508 compliance.
  • Customer service skills and strong organizational skills with attention to detail as well as the ability to work independently and on teams, communicate effectively with colleagues and customers, prioritize and manage multiple on-going projects, quickly adapt to change, and meet deadlines.
  • Ability to pass a government background investigation which requires Permanent Residency or US Citizenship.

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