1

Reference Librarian Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Completion of 1 full academic year of graduate study in library science in an accredited college or ... Conducting legal research using statutes, regulations, case law, or other legal reference resources;

Because this position is primarily concerned with providing library services in law and legal reference, applicants must also meet the requirements specified in one of the paragraphs below: a. Legal ...

Adjunct Librarian

MI · On-site

$39.84/hr

Typical Duties Primary responsibility will be to provide library reference service and teach information literacy sessions, which range from basic to advanced skill level, may be during the day or ...

Library Aide

Wayne, MI · On-site

$12.75 - $15.25/hr

Maintains materials inventory and equipment for the purpose of providing an up-to-date reference and ensuring the availability of books and library materials. * Evaluates books, and/or periodicals ...

Showing results 21-40

Reference Librarian information

See Michigan salary details

$22.7K

$54.1K

$87.6K

How much do reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 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 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 You help the library evaluate and develop their reference collection by selecting new sources and removing outdated materials.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 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 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 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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Reference Librarian job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,088 per year, or $26 per hour.

$76K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Organizational Location: These positions are located in the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Office of the Principal Legal Advisor (OPLA), in various locations around the US.
Salary: The salary range indicated in this announcement will be adjusted to include locality payment for selected duty location. General Schedule locality pay tables may be found under Salaries & Wages.Qualifications:IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE WILL NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Do not copy and paste the duties, specialized experience, or occupational assessment questionnaire from this announcement into your resume as that will not be considered a demonstration of your qualifications for this position.
Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the Basic Requirement, Specialized Experience, AND Law Specialization Requirement as noted below.
Basic Requirement:
You must meet one of the items listed below (A or B):
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. (Must provide transcripts)
or
B. A total of at least 5 years of a combination of college-level education, training, and experience. To qualify on this basis, the applicant must establish conclusively that the education, training, and experience provided a knowledge and understanding of the theories, principles, and techniques of professional librarianship; a knowledge of literature resources; and the knowledge and abilities essential for providing effective library and information services. (Must provide transcripts)
AND
Specialized Experience:

To be considered minimally qualified for this position, in addition to the Basic Requirement above, you must demonstrate that you have the required specialized experience below.
GS-12: Applicant must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience equivalent in difficulty and responsibility to the GS-11 level in the Federal service that included the duties of:
  1. Conducting legal research using statutes, regulations, case law, or other legal reference resources;
  2. Compiling information from statutes, regulations, department orders, digests, commentaries, legal instruments, or other legal reference materials; and
  3. Developing research guides and instructional materials for research services.
AND
Law Specialization Requirement:
Because this position is primarily concerned with providing library services in law and legal reference, applicants must also meet the requirements specified in one of the paragraphs below:

a. Legal Education
Completion of at least 24 semester hours of legal study in an accredited law school for positions primarily concerned with providing library services in law or legislative reference. (Must provide transcripts)
or
b. Law-Related Experience

Four years of pertinent experience of such nature and level to provide a knowledge of the basic principles, theories, practices, techniques, terminology and expressions of law; an understanding of the standard methods, procedures, and techniques of research and analysis in law or legal-related field; ability to acquire additional information about the field and related fields; and some knowledge of literature resources in the field.

Such experience must be equivalent to that which would have been acquired through successful completion of legal training as described in (a) above.
or
c. Combination of Legal Education and Experience
Any time-equivalent combination of experience as described in (b) above and education as described in (a) above.


All qualification requirements must be met by the closing date of this announcement. Qualification claims will be subject to verification.
NOTE: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:This position requires specific coursework and/or a degree to meet the basic education requirement. You must submit an official transcript, unofficial transcript, or a list including courses, grades earned, completion dates, and quarter and semester hours earned. Your transcript(s) must clearly demonstrate the course(s) listed in the qualification requirement section. If the transcript(s) does not clearly demonstrate this, you must submit a copy of the course description and/or other documentation demonstrating that the courses are equivalent.
If you are claiming education as any part of your qualifications for this position, you must submit an official transcript, unofficial transcript, or a list including courses, grades earned, completion dates, and quarter and semester hours earned.
Special Instructions for Foreign Education: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show that the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs and such education has been deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university. Failure to provide such documentation with your application will result in lost consideration. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.Employment Type: OTHER