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Reference Librarian Jobs in Naperville, IL (NOW HIRING)

Part-Time Librarian

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23.37/hr

Staffs the reference desk, and assists all library users in identifying and locating electronic and print materials, and solving research problems. * Provides information literacy instruction to ...

Part-Time Librarian

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23.37/hr

Staffs the reference desk, and assists all library users in identifying and locating electronic and print materials, and solving research problems. * Provides information literacy instruction to ...

Research Librarian

Chicago, IL · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

The Research Librarian provides reference and research assistance in support of the various legal and administrative departments throughout the Firm. The role participates in the organization of ...

Research Librarian

Chicago, IL · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

The Research Librarian provides reference and research assistance in support of the various legal and administrative departments throughout the Firm. The role participates in the organization of ...

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Reference Librarian information

See Naperville, IL salary details

$26K

$62K

$100.4K

How much do reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for reference librarian in Naperville, IL is $62,001.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $72,400.00 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 popular job titles related to Reference Librarian jobs in Naperville, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Reference Librarian jobs in Naperville, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Reference Librarian jobs in Naperville, IL are:

What cities near Naperville, IL are hiring for Reference Librarian jobs?

Cities near Naperville, IL with the most Reference Librarian job openings:

Infographic showing various Reference Librarian job openings in Naperville, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,001 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

The selected candidate will be responsible for handling all of the electronic resources, reference, and collection development inquiries and acquisitions. This position is a full-time academic year position. The hours of this position are generally Monday - Friday, 12:00pm - 8:00pm.

The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA) is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive teaching and learning environment. Through a model of Equity and Excellence, IMSA has committed to advancing equity in STEM education and representation and creating a diverse, inclusive community of global citizens who can realize their full potential and execute our mission to advance the human condition.

This Equity and Excellence Work is the intentional integration of Cultural Competence, Diversity, Equity, Equity-Minded Frame, Excellence and Inclusion into every facet of the Academy, with the understanding that it is an active and ongoing process involving structures, processes and people and not an isolated initiative.

This position will support IMSA's Equity and Excellence work by ensuring the delivery of quality, equitable, and inclusive support while promoting and maintaining an inclusive work environment and culture that embraces the diversity of people and perspectives collaborating at IMSA to ignite and nurture creative, ethical, scientific minds that advance the human condition.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Collection Development

  • Regularly review key selection resources to identify potential additions to the collection, both print and electronic, pertinent to the IMSA curriculum, teaching and research practices, residential programs, and general reading interests.
  • Develop and maintain proactive, working relationships with faculty, staff, and students to stay current with curriculum and teaching directions, subject area needs and interests.
  • Systematically assess the collection for balance, utility, timeliness, and format.
  • Identify and coordinate the withdrawal of outdated print and electronic titles.
  • Prioritize and coordinate the input of orders in an online system.
  • Promote collections and inform users of new acquisitions of potential interest to them.
  • Cultivate and implement policies and procedures that reflect the IRC’s values and goals.


Reference Services

  • Provide proactive, customer-oriented information, reference, and research assistance.
  • Develop, design, and deliver research skills classes in partnership with faculty and the IRC Supervisor
  • Create and update online research guides, research skills handouts, Web resources, and displays to leverage knowledge for the community.
  • Maintain and organize the content on the library’s webpage.
  • Work harmoniously with IRC team and IMSA community to maximize efficiency of operations and patron services.
  • Maintain professional knowledge of current trends, developments, standards, best practices, and technologies, especially in reference and collection development.
  • Conduct special projects in collection development and reference.
  • Assist in daily library operations and other duties as assigned.
  • Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • ALA-accredited Master's Degree in Library Science
  • Knowledge, experience, and proficiency in collection development, reference services, online searching, research strategies, and library instruction.
  • Experience and interest in academic/school environment.
  • Positive and strong customer focus.
  • Significant recent experience and proficiency with current information technologies and computer applications.
  • Knowledge of current and emerging trends, standards, and practices in collection development and reference.
  • Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and collegially in a changing and fast-paced environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to work well with a variety of individuals and diverse populations

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • 5 years experience in research/school library
  • Experience in an academic setting

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: 

Work is performed in office settings with minimal exposure to health or safety hazards.  Substantial time is spent working on a computer.  This role requires the following physical activities: speaking, hearing, visual acuity, and mobility within the workspace.


COMPENSATION:

This position is a full-time, exempt, 10-month, employment-at-will position. Salary regionally commensurate with training and experience in like-institutions with a range of $60,341 to 75,426. IMSA offers a comprehensive state benefits package (major medical, dental, vision, and prescription) with rates found here, a generous paid time off plan, and a retirement plan through the State University Retirement System (SURS). SURS is reciprocal with other Illinois public retirement systems such as the Teachers’ Retirement System of Illinois (TRS) and the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF).

The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer providing equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, age, religion, or national origin.  This policy also includes the handicapped and all disabled Vietnam era veterans.  IMSA utilizes only job-related criteria in making decisions concerning applicants and employees.