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Reference Librarian Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

CoreCivic

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 ...

CoreCivic

Librarian

Whiteville, TN · On-site

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

Attorney | ICE

Law Librarian

Nashville, TN

$76K/yr

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;

Attorney | ICE

Law Librarian

Memphis, TN · On-site

$76K/yr

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;

Neumo Holdings LLC

Librarian (On-Site)

Germantown, TN · On-site

Offers reference and reader's advisory services. * Educates community members on library resources and technology and assists with basic computer and e-reader questions. * Explains and demonstrates ...

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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 Sep 1, 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 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.

More about Reference Librarian jobs

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:

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

Reference Librarian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reference Librarian job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,323 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Librarian Pool (2026-27 SY)

Nashville, TN

Metro Nashville Public Schools
Education • 5 - 10K employees

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

139th of 639 rated elementary and secondary schools

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by parents

Learn more about Metro Nashville Public Schoolsexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 3 hours ago

Job description

Job Description

Librarian

Our Vision

Metro Nashville Public Schools will be established as the premier large school district in Tennessee and beyond by ensuring that every student is known.

Our Mission 

We deliver a great public education to every student, every day.

Job Summary

A school librarian provides five essential interconnected school library roles: leader, instructional partner, information specialist, teacher, and program administrator.  A school librarian works with both students and teachers to facilitate access to information in a wide variety of formats, instructs students and teachers how to acquire, evaluate and use information and the technology needed in this process, and introduces children and young adults to literature and other resources to broaden their horizons. As a collaborator, change agent, and leader, the school librarian develops, promotes and implements a program that will help prepare students to be effective users of ideas and information, a lifelong skill (AASL).

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Regular and reliable attendance is an expectation of the job.

EducationEducation LevelEducation DetailsRequired/
Preferred    Master's Degree In Library Science Preferred    


 

Licenses and CertificationsLicenses/CertificationsLicenses/Certification DetailsTime FrameRequired/
Preferred     

Certification as a media specialist through completion of MLIS coursework; holds a valid TN teaching license

  Required or     Certification as a media specialist through add-on Library Information Specialist preK-12 (473) endorsement with a valid TN teaching license and a qualifying score on the Praxis 5312 assessment   Required     Essential FunctionsEssential Function Empowers all members of the learning community to become critical thinkers, enthusiastic readers, skillful researchers, curators and ethical users of information Collaborates and co-teaches with classroom educators to establish learning objectives and assessment strategies to develop individual and group inquiry-based learning experiences Develops and maintains a teaching and learning environment that is fun, inviting, safe, flexible, collaborative, inclusive, and conducive to learning Champions equity, access, and intellectual freedom for users within the physical space and beyond, including providing 24/7 access to the online library catalog, digital and audio books, and various information resources Fosters exploration, discovery, creation, and innovation in a growth mindset Supports learner success by guiding them to read for understanding, breadth, and pleasure Empowers learners to work with each other in successful collaborations and to constructively assess their own work and the work of their peers Models and champions digital citizenship and safety, adherence to copyright and fair use requirements Teaches all members of the learning community to engage with and use information in a global society Models and develops a commitment to respect equity, diversity, and inclusion in collection development and within the learning community Supports learners as they make meaning for themselves to create new knowledge by collections, organizing, and sharing resources of personal relevance Addresses broader educational issues with other educators in the building, at the district level, and at the professional association level Develops and supports the school's and the district's mission, strategic plan, and policies Manages the staff, budget, and the physical and virtual spaces of the school library Evaluates, introduces, and models emerging technologies for the learning community, and uses technology tools to supplement school resources Participates as an active leader of the local and global learning community, building relationships with organizations and stakeholders Supports academy programs in collaboration with academy teams


 

Knowledge, Skills and AbilitiesKSAsProficiency  


 

Required for All Jobs Punctuality and consistent presence are essential to maintaining a productive and collaborative work environment. Regular in-person attendance is a fundamental expectation of this position.   Performs other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.   Complies with all laws, regulations, policies and standards.  


 


 

Physical Demands/Working Conditions

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. 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.

Physical DemandsPhysical DemandN/ARarelyOccasionallyFrequentlyConstantlyWeight   Stationary Position     X         Move/Traverse     X         Stationary Position/Seated     X         Transport/Lifting     X         Transport/Carrying     X         Exerting Force/Pushing       X       Exerting Force/Pulling       X       Ascend/Descend     X         Balancing       X       Position Self/Stooping     X         Position Self/Kneeling     X         Position Self/Crouching     X         Position Self/Crawling     X         Reaching     X         Handling     X         Grasping     X         Feeling     X         Communicate/Talking         X     Communicate/Hearing         X     Repetitive Motions     X         Coordination     X        


 

Notes: N/A - Not Applicable. Rarely - The physical demand or working condition is required on an occasional basis and the intensity is light. Occasionally - The physical demand or working condition is required sometimes, and the intensity is moderate. Frequently - The physical demand or working condition is required often, and the intensity is moderate to heavy. Constantly - The physical demand or working condition is required continuously, and the intensity is heavy. Weight - The weight refers to the amount of force required to lift, carry, push, pull, or hold objects. Working EnvironmentWorking ConditionN/ARarelyOccasionallyFrequentlyConstantly   Extreme cold             Extreme heat             Humidity             Wet             Noise             Hazards             Temperature Change             Atmospheric Conditions             Vibration             Mechanical Parts   X        


 


 

Job Title: Librarian Job Code: 6702037 Job Family: 67 - Education Administration Professionals Sub-Family: Curriculum and Instruction Job Family SOC Code: 11-9030 Sub-Family SOC Code: 11-9039 FLSA Classification: Exempt Grade Ladder: MNPS Certificated Teacher Pay Grade: MNPS.201_ Duration (Days):   Locations Type: School-Based Approved Date: 4/3/2025 2:16:39 PM Date Last Edited: 2/13/2026 9:29:41 AM Is Approved:


 

At Metro Nashville Public Schools, we use detailed academic, behavior and social-emotional data to ensure every student in the district is known and our staff makes a concerted effort to tune into students' interests, passions, learning styles and needs. We focus on creating and supporting rigorous, engaging and personalized learning experiences for all students to identify and eliminate inequities - so every student has a clear and achievable path to success marked by measurable goals.

Offering a range of program and opportunities, MNPS has options to fit every family's needs. Whether you are looking for advanced academics, visual and performing arts, special education services, English language support or STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) educational programs, we offer the best choices to meet individual student needs - starting at Pre-K all the way through graduation.

Our Vision
Metro Nashville Public Schools will be established as the premier large school district in Tennessee and beyond by ensuring that every student is known.

Our Mission 
We deliver a great public education to every student, every day.

Our Core Values
Core values drive and focus our collective commitments included in our mission and vision. These values reflect the principles that guide our internal conduct, as well as our relationships with the external community. Our core values are woven throughout our goals, high-level strategies, and performance measures.

Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools is an equal opportunity employer committed to promoting diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities for all individuals. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law. Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools is dedicated to creating an inclusive work environment that reflects the diversity of our global community. We strive to treat all employees and applicants with respect and fairness, and we make employment decisions based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. The American Disabilities Act (ADA) requires MNPS to provide adequate accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

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