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Reference Librarian Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Librarian

Whiteville, TN · On-site

$20.81/hr

The Librarian oversees the activities of a general purpose and/or law library designed to ... Order and maintain reference materials, and assist inmates in locating and selecting materials to ...

Develop and maintain library catalog system, classification, and circulation system to facilitate reference/research services. * Examine book reviews, publishers' catalogs and other information ...

Librarian

Nashville, TN · On-site

$48K - $60K/yr

Librarian POSITION SUMMARY This position coordinates electronic resources and cataloging ... Instruction, both class, virtual, and reference desk is expected. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS/JOB ...

Librarian POSITION SUMMARY This position coordinates electronic resources and cataloging ... Instruction, both class, virtual, and reference desk is expected. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS/JOB ...

Librarian

Nashville, TN · On-site

$48K - $60K/yr

Librarian POSITION SUMMARY This position coordinates electronic resources and cataloging ... Instruction, both class, virtual, and reference desk is expected. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS/JOB ...

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Reference Librarian information

See Tennessee salary details

$23.6K

$56.3K

$91.2K

How much do reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for reference librarian in Tennessee is $56,323.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,900.00 and $65,800.00 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 Tennessee? The most popular types of Reference Librarian jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Reference Librarian jobs in Tennessee? For Reference Librarian jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Reference Librarian jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Reference Librarian jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Reference Librarian jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Reference Librarian job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Reference Librarian jobs in TN? For Reference Librarian jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Reference Librarian job openings in Tennessee 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 $56,323 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Research and Reference Librarian

University of Memphis

Memphis, TN

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


University Of Memphis rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 615 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Provides research and reference services to students, faculty, and staff of the Law School, members of the University community, attorneys, and the general public. Applicants must submit a resume, cover letter and three references to be considered for the position. Applications must be received no later than August 14th, 2026 at 11:59pm. 

The University of Memphis is a leading, student-centered, urban public R1 research institution. Located in Memphis, Tennessee, on 1,160 acres. The University serves a population of nearly 20,000 students and 2,500 employees, including more than 1,000 full-time faculty members. The University offers bachelor's degrees in more than 230 areas of study, master's degrees in more than 50 subjects and doctoral degrees in 26 disciplines; supported an institutional record of more than $100 million in research awards for FY24; and has an operating budget of close to $500 million.

Requirements

  • Master's degree in library and information science from an ALA accredited school and a J.D. from an ABA accredited law school. 
  • Minimum three years working as a librarian in a law library.
  • Applicants must submit a resume, cover letter and three references to be considered for the position. 
  • Applications must be received no later than August 14th, 2026 at 11:59pm. 

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Worker Characteristics

  • Knowledge of and experience with current technologies and trends in libraries, preferably academic libraries.
  • Knowledge of and experience with current and emerging electronic resources and technologies, particularly in the field of law.
  • Advanced knowledge of and familiarity with legal resources in all formats, particularly Anglo-American law library collections and government documents.
  • Knowledge of legal research strategies.
  • Knowledge of and skill in using LexisNexis, Westlaw, the Internet and other electronic resources for legal and non-legal research.
  • Strong professional presentation skills for teaching and training in a classroom environment or for small groups.
  • Demonstrated ability, knowledge, and skill to teach legal research.
    Excellent advanced written and oral communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and exercise considerable independent judgment.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to function effectively in a team environment and to work effectively with a wide variety of people.
  • Project management skills.
  • Supervisory, organizational, and leadership abilities.

Reference and Instruction

  • Provides research and reference services to students, faculty, and staff of the Law School, members of the University community, attorneys, and the general public.
  • Participates in the Law Library faculty services program.
  • Provides instruction to first year law students in basic legal research materials and methods.
  • Participates in Law Library instructional programs and teaching services, including teaching as part of the Legal Methods program and teaching for credit specialized and advanced research and other courses.
  • Works one-on-one with individual students, faculty, and staff to provide training and research consultation.
  • Coordinates and provides training on databases, legal and library technology, legal research, and other needed topics.
  • Produces library and research guides, tutorials, and other library publications in appropriate formats.
     

Collection Development

  • Maintains awareness of current and emerging uses of electronic resources and technology in the field of law by, among other things, consulting with law librarians in various types of law libraries, attending conferences and webinars, monitoring sources of information such as organization websites, and using current awareness tools.
  • Identifies and selects materials (paper or electronic) for the Law Library collection that best support the research and curricular needs of the Law School community.
     

Supervision and Leadership

  • In the absence of the Assistant Director, Public Services, supervises and manages operations of the Public Services department of the Law Library.
  • Supervises student workers and coordinates with other library staff to allocate student worker time effectively.
  • Constructs a schedule for coverage of the circulation desk and participates in reference/circulation desk staffing.
  • Represents the Law Library and Law School by providing leadership and service in local, state, regional, and national professional organizations.
     

Other Responsibilities
 

  • Coordinates library events and other special occurrences, such as receptions or matters relating to exams and commencement.
  • Assists in approving public patrons for access to the library facilities, in accordance with the security policy and procedures.
  • Other duties as directed.

About Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law 

Memphis Law offers an outstanding educational program within an R1 research university. Our affordable tuition attracts a dedicated and hard-working student body. Our downtown home, in the beautifully restored U.S. Customs House, Courthouse, and Post Office overlooking the Mississippi River, perennially ranks as the best law school facility in the nation. The city of Memphis is an attractive location in Tennessee, and is world-renowned for its music, food, and hospitality.  


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