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Reference Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tuskegee University

Provides reference and research assistance to library patrons and staff coordinates "specialized instruction" programming, which includes activities such as orientation, course related bibliographic ...

The New York Public Library

$55K/yr

Librarians start at $55,027 per year and are eligible in 12 months for an increased salary of $60 ... Provide onsite and remote reference services, using print and electronic resources * Participate in ...

Tuskegee University

Position Information Position Title Government Documents-Reference Librarian Job Summary As a designated selective Federal Depository Library (FDLP), Tuskegee University Library Services seeks a ...

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How much do reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for reference librarian in the United States is $62,056.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $72,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

More about Reference Librarian jobs
What cities are hiring for Reference Librarian jobs? Cities with the most Reference Librarian job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Reference Librarian jobs? The most popular types of Reference Librarian jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Reference Librarian jobs? The top employers for Reference Librarian jobs are:
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Reference Librarian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reference Librarian job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Locum Tenens, 49% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,056 per year, or $29.8 per hour.
Part Time Reference Librarian

Part Time Reference Librarian

Marquette University

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

Part-time

Posted 9 days ago

Marquette University rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

408th of 555 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Posting Number
201104800
Position Title
Part Time Reference Librarian
State
Employment Status
Part Time
Position Status
Regular
If Limited Term (End Date of Assignment, Project, or Grant)
Position Type
Faculty
Job Family
Faculty
# Hours Per Week
16
Position Overview
This position will join the Library's team of librarians and staff serving Marquette University Law school's students, faculty, and staff, as well as the Marquette campus and Milwaukee legal community. Under the general direction of the Director of the Law Library and the Associate Law Librarian for Reference and Outreach Services, this librarian participates in the weekly reference schedule, providing reference and specialized research services to law students, law faculty, the university community, the legal community, and members of the public. This role will involve occasional instructional sessions and other support to students, and collaborates in the development, evaluation, and implementation of reference and other library goals, policies, procedures, and services as needed.
Duties and Responsibilities
  1. Staffs the law library reference desk according to a weekly reference desk schedule, primarily during evening and rotating weekend hours, with occasional daytime, weekday hours. Provides a wide range of reference and specialized research assistance, including referring patrons to legal research resources appropriate to their needs, providing appropriate instruction in the use of such resources, and providing information about alternative resources as necessary. Provides such reference services to law students, law faculty, the university community, the legal community, and members of the public in person, over the phone, and by email or other electronic communication options.
  2. Provides occasional instructional sessions and research and resource support to students, including to the members of the law school's student-edited journals.
  3. Creates, revises, and updates research guides, bibliographies, and other law library publications and web content as needed.
  4. Participates in or completes other projects and activities that support reference, research, or instructional needs, such as, but not limited to, collection development and maintenance projects or research instruction sessions or presentations.
  5. Collaborates in the development, evaluation, and implementation of law library goals, policies, procedures, and services as needed.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school.
  • M.L.I.S. (or equivalent) from an ALA-accredited institution or current enrollment in such a program with degree completed within one year of the date of hire.
  • Knowledge of legal research methodology and legal bibliography in multiple formats.
  • Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Flexibility and the ability to work independently and cooperatively as part of a team.
  • Strong service orientation and ability to work with a diverse patron population.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Experience in library reference or law library reference. Experience teaching legal research, technology or information literacy.
Department
Law Library
Posting Date
07/07/2026
Closing Date
Special Instructions to Applicants
EOE Statement
It is the policy of Marquette University to provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other applicable federal or state-protected classification.

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