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Reference Librarian Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Librarian

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$31.70 - $47.56/hr

... reference, and instruction. * Plans, delivers, and/or monitors programs to all ages, including early literacy classes; markets and promotes programs throughout the library system; and supports ...

Librarian

Jordan, MN

$31.70 - $47.56/hr

... reference, and instruction. * Plans, delivers, and/or monitors programs to all ages, including early literacy classes; markets and promotes programs throughout the library system; and supports ...

Librarian

New Prague, MN · On-site

$31.70 - $47.56/hr

... reference, and instruction. * Plans, delivers, and/or monitors programs to all ages, including early literacy classes; markets and promotes programs throughout the library system; and supports ...

Librarian

Belle Plaine, MN · On-site

$31.70 - $47.56/hr

... reference, and instruction. * Plans, delivers, and/or monitors programs to all ages, including early literacy classes; markets and promotes programs throughout the library system; and supports ...

Librarian

Elko New Market, MN · On-site

$31.70 - $47.56/hr

... reference, and instruction. * Plans, delivers, and/or monitors programs to all ages, including early literacy classes; markets and promotes programs throughout the library system; and supports ...

Librarian

Savage, MN · On-site

$31.70 - $47.56/hr

... reference, and instruction. * Plans, delivers, and/or monitors programs to all ages, including early literacy classes; markets and promotes programs throughout the library system; and supports ...

Librarian

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$31.70 - $47.56/hr

... reference, and instruction. * Plans, delivers, and/or monitors programs to all ages, including early literacy classes; markets and promotes programs throughout the library system; and supports ...

Librarian

New Prague, MN · On-site

$31.70 - $47.56/hr

... reference, and instruction. * Plans, delivers, and/or monitors programs to all ages, including early literacy classes; markets and promotes programs throughout the library system; and supports ...

Librarian

Jordan, MN · On-site

$31.70 - $47.56/hr

... reference, and instruction. * Plans, delivers, and/or monitors programs to all ages, including early literacy classes; markets and promotes programs throughout the library system; and supports ...

Librarian

Belle Plaine, MN

$31.70 - $47.56/hr

... reference, and instruction. * Plans, delivers, and/or monitors programs to all ages, including early literacy classes; markets and promotes programs throughout the library system; and supports ...

Librarian

Savage, MN · On-site

$31.70 - $47.56/hr

... reference, and instruction. * Plans, delivers, and/or monitors programs to all ages, including early literacy classes; markets and promotes programs throughout the library system; and supports ...

Librarian

Prior Lake, MN · On-site

$31.70 - $47.56/hr

... reference, and instruction. * Plans, delivers, and/or monitors programs to all ages, including early literacy classes; markets and promotes programs throughout the library system; and supports ...

Librarian

Elko New Market, MN · On-site

$31.70 - $47.56/hr

... reference, and instruction. * Plans, delivers, and/or monitors programs to all ages, including early literacy classes; markets and promotes programs throughout the library system; and supports ...

Librarian

Prior Lake, MN

$31.70 - $47.56/hr

... reference, and instruction. * Plans, delivers, and/or monitors programs to all ages, including early literacy classes; markets and promotes programs throughout the library system; and supports ...

Librarian

Jordan, MN · On-site

$31.70 - $47.56/hr

... reference, and instruction. * Plans, delivers, and/or monitors programs to all ages, including early literacy classes; markets and promotes programs throughout the library system; and supports ...

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Showing results 1-20

Reference Librarian information

See Minnesota salary details

$25.5K

$60.8K

$98.4K

How much do reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for reference librarian in Minnesota is $60,779.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $71,000.00 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 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 Minnesota?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Reference Librarian jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Reference Librarian job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Reference Librarian job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,779 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

Associate Librarian - PT 25 hrs/week - Chan/Victoria

Carver County

Chaska, MN

$28.74 - $43.10/hr

Part-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY Under the direction of the Branch Manager, the Associate Librarian is a paraprofessional position that performs varied and technical library duties, including assisting the public with library services, answering moderately complex research questions, and in the absence of a branch manager, performs the duties of a "person in charge". Helps patrons at the service desk and other service desk duties. TYPICAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Conducts formalized customer interviews to assess their needs and/or requests and performs moderately complex searches of print and online resources to locate information.

and provide readers advisory service. Under the direction of the Branch Manager plans, implements and monitors ongoing projects in/for the library such as, but not limited to, storytimes, class visits, programs, book talks, book clubs, author visits, craft programs, displays, marketing activities, tours and school visits, and instruction in technology based library resources. Develops library engagement activities such as passive programming.

Routinely serves as "person in charge" when branch manager is offsite. Assists library customers at the service desk by performing a full range of circulation, customer service, and support tasks, including duties typically assigned to Library Assistants, as well as assists with shelving and maintains orderly collections. Under the direction of the Branch Manager or a librarian, engages in collection development activities such as weeding.

Serves on systemwide teams related to job duties, such as youth, teen, and adult services. Prepares library for opening and closing. Perform other duties of a comparable level or type.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Associates Degree or two full years of completed college coursework in a related field Two years of library or similar work experience or Bachelor's Degree in related field SCORED EXAMINATION PROCESS All applications will be screened for minimum qualifications, scored and ranked. The highest ranked candidates meeting minimum qualifications will be recommended for the scored oral examinations (interviews). Final selection for the position will include successful completion of oral interview(s), reference checks, and background investigation.