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Reference Librarian Jobs in Springfield, MA (NOW HIRING)

Town of Bloomfield

Librarian 1 (PT)

Bloomfield, CT

$42.44/hr

Description Librarian I - Part Time Salary: $42.44 hourly (non-benefited) Bloomfield Public Library ... reference and readers' advisory, is required. A joy of reading is a must. The number of scheduled ...

Town of Bloomfield

Librarian 1 (PT)

Bloomfield, CT · On-site

$42.44/hr

Description Librarian I - Part Time Salary: $42.44 hourly (non-benefited) Bloomfield Public Library ... reference and readers' advisory, is required A joy of reading is a must. The number of scheduled ...

Town of Bloomfield, CT

Librarian 1 (PT)

Bloomfield, CT · On-site

$42.44/hr

Library Opening Date: 05/12/2026 Closing Date: 6/1/2026 11:59 PM Eastern Description Librarian I ... reference and readers' advisory, is required. A joy of reading is a must. The number of scheduled ...

State of Connecticut

Library Technician

Hartford, CT · On-site

$71.08K - $90.04K/yr

The Library Technician can also expect to: * Receive and process tangible documents from ... supervisory references, licensure, etc., at the request and discretion of the hiring agency.

New

Belcan

ECAD Library Engineer - Siemens Xpedition

Windsor, CT · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

A remote ECAD Library Engineer- Siemens Xpedition job is currently available through Belcan at one ... Utilize reference documents and apply information to decision making Required Qualifications: * U.S ...

State of Connecticut

Float Cook (10 month)

Manchester, CT · On-site

$24.73 - $32.37/hr

Visit our Applicant Reference Library for additional support throughout the recruitment process. BEFORE YOU APPLY: * Meet Minimum Qualifications: Ensure you meet the Minimum Qualifications listed on ...

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Reference Librarian information

See Springfield, MA salary details

$25.9K

$61.8K

$100.1K

How much do reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for reference librarian in Springfield, MA is $61,839.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $72,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are reference librarians?

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 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 popular job titles related to Reference Librarian jobs in Springfield, MA? For Reference Librarian jobs in Springfield, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Reference Librarian jobs in Springfield, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Reference Librarian jobs in Springfield, MA are:
What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Reference Librarian jobs? Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Reference Librarian job openings:
Reference Librarian jobs near you

On-Call Reference Librarian

City of Springfield

Springfield, MA

$28.05/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago

City Of Springfield (Missouri) rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

393rd of 641 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Position Purpose/Summary Responsible for providing reference and resource information and material and programs to the general public for the City of Springfield's Library Department. Responsible for assisting patrons to find and use library materials or provide referral to other sources and other similar duties pertaining to the Information Services department. Work is performed in accordance with accepted practices and procedures in the field of library sciences related to reference and resource material with considerable latitude for the exercise of independent professional judgment under the general direction of the Branch Manager or Manager of Public Services who reviews work through observation, reports and conferences.

Supervision maybe exercised over other employees. Essential Functions Provides reference and instructional services to the general public, branches and regional libraries. Monitors performance of the periodicals collection.

Assists the Internet Services Librarian in web maintenance. Oversees the production of bibliographic aids and performs similar duties affecting system wide operations as required. Participates in the common work of the department including outreach, books by mail, formal instruction, collection development, web development and maintenance, compilation of bibliographies and other reader advisory products, displays, etc.

Plans, schedules and implements bibliographic instruction and other programs for students, special interest groups or the general public in the use of library services and collection. Participates in system-wide staff training program. Initiates and engages in special projects that analyze, design and develop special services for various diverse audiences.

Participates individually or in work teams to make recommendations for new initiatives or changes in service as they relate to the overall operation of the reference desks. Keeps abreast of developments and technological advances in the library field, current events, popular reading interests, and other issues necessary to maintaining awareness of public information needs. Conducts informal training of other personnel to increase awareness of methods and practices.

Performs routine tasks such a taking payments for microform copies, counting daily cash receipts, keeping statistics, re-filing and re-shelving ready-reference materials. Performs other similar duties as responsibility and necessity dictate or requested by supervisor. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Thorough knowledge of information provision theory and practice.

Specialized knowledge of reading interests and developmental stages of children and teens. Ability to demonstrate vision, strategic thinking, collaboration and inclusive leadership skills, flexibility and adaptability and a willingness to embrace and drive change. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Creative problem solving skills. Education and Experience Bachelor's degree and completion of an American Library Association accredited Master of Library Science. Two or more years of experience in a library environment.

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