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Reference Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

LTE Research Technician

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$17.50 - $24.25/hr

CBC & Reference Check Policy All candidates for employment are subject to a pre-employment screening which includes a criminal background check, work authorization, and verification of education. It ...

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Reference information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$10.7K

$51.2K

How much do reference jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for reference in Appleton, WI is $50,927.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,700.00 and $51,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Reference vs Data Entry Clerk?

AspectReferenceData Entry Clerk
Required CredentialsTypically no formal credentials, but some roles may prefer a high school diplomaHigh school diploma or equivalent often required
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, administrative or clerical rolesOffice environments, data management tasks
Industry UsageUsed across various industries for administrative supportCommon in healthcare, finance, and administrative sectors
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare to understand administrative rolesPeople compare to clarify data management tasks

While both Reference and Data Entry Clerk roles involve administrative tasks, Reference typically refers to providing recommendations or verifying information, whereas Data Entry Clerks focus on inputting data into systems. The credentials and work environments overlap, but their primary functions differ significantly.

What is a reference job?

A reference job typically refers to a position where an employee's previous work experience is used to verify their skills, work ethic, and reliability. Employers often contact references provided by candidates to gather insights before making hiring decisions. This process helps ensure the candidate's qualifications align with the job requirements.

What are Reference jobs?

Reference jobs typically refer to positions within libraries or information centers where professionals assist patrons in finding and using resources. These roles often include answering research questions, guiding users to appropriate materials, and teaching information literacy skills. Reference librarians or specialists may also help with database searches, citation management, and providing access to digital and physical collections. They play a crucial role in supporting education, research, and community needs. The required qualifications often include a degree in library science or a related field.

What are some common challenges faced by Reference Librarians and how can they be addressed?

Reference Librarians often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of diverse patron inquiries, staying updated with rapidly evolving information resources, and balancing in-person and digital reference services. To address these challenges, it's important to develop strong research and communication skills, participate in ongoing professional development, and utilize collaborative tools for knowledge sharing within the library team. Building a network with colleagues and attending training sessions can also help in staying current with new databases and technology.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

High-paying jobs that can reach $10,000 a month without a degree often include roles such as sales managers, real estate brokers, or skilled trades like electricians and plumbers, especially with experience and certifications. Success in these fields typically depends on skills, performance, and sometimes licensing, rather than formal education.

Do reference librarians still exist?

Yes, reference librarians still exist and work in libraries, educational institutions, and information centers. They assist users in locating information, using research tools, and developing research skills, often requiring knowledge of cataloging, databases, and information management.

What is the highest paying librarian job?

The highest paying librarian roles are often in specialized areas such as law, medical, or corporate librarians, with law librarians and medical librarians typically earning the highest salaries. These positions usually require advanced degrees, certifications, and expertise in their respective fields, and they often work in institutional or corporate environments with higher compensation packages.

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 strong research skills, information literacy expertise, and typically a Master's in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent. Familiarity with online databases, cataloging systems like MARC, and digital reference tools is essential. Excellent communication, customer service, and problem-solving abilities help librarians effectively assist diverse patrons. These skills ensure accurate information delivery, efficient resource navigation, and a positive library experience for all users.
What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Reference jobs? Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Reference job openings:

Library Assistant - Public Services (Half-Time)

City of Appleton, WI

Appleton, WI • On-site

$24.07 - $28.88/hr

Other

Medical, Life, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Salary: $24.07 - $28.88 Hourly
Location : Appleton Public Library, Appleton, WI
Job Type: Part-time
Job Number: 2026-102
Department: Library
Division: Public Services
Opening Date: 06/03/2026
Closing Date: 6/21/2026 11:59 PM Central
Job Description
The Appleton Public Library, the Wisconsin Library of the Year for 2025, is seeking a Library Assistant - Public Services (Half-Time) to join our dynamic team.
The Library Assistant - Public Services (Half-Time) a half-time, benefited non-exempt library assistant position in the Public Services section of the library. Work involves providing reference, readers' advisory and technology assistance to patrons at the adult public service desks, contributing to locally created databases, fiction and nonfiction collection development and working as a member of the Public Services section. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Public Services supervisor. Some evening and weekend work may be required.
Examples of Duties
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
  • Provides courteous, efficient, knowledgeable customer service at adult public service desks.
  • Provides reference and readers advisory to patrons at adult public service desks, via the telephone, and online
  • Assists and instructs patrons in the use of electronic and print resources
  • Assists and instructs patrons in the use of library catalog, including placing holds, renewing items, saved searches, etc.
  • Assists and instructs patrons in downloading ebooks and/or audio books
  • Assists and instructs patrons using internet computers, including email, scanning, printing, etc.
  • Assists and instructs patrons using microfilm readers and/or printer copiers
  • Assists and instructs patrons using self-check machines, including troubleshooting
  • Accurately checks out library materials using RFID technology
  • Registers patrons receiving new and/or replacement library cards
  • Books meeting rooms and study rooms
  • Directs calls for the City of Appleton
  • Accurately communicates library policies, procedures, and code of conduct to the public
  • Contributes to collection development under direction of Public Services Supervisor
  • Promotes library services
  • Prepares displays of public interest, and or current events
  • Prepares user guides and booklists, in print and online
  • Contributes books reviews to library blogs
  • Responds to purchase requests, mail, and/or e-mail requests for information Orders, organizes and stocks state and federal tax forms
  • Contributes to local obituary database by transcribing obituaries and accurately entering information into database
  • Maintains regular punctual and predictable attendance, works overtime and extra hours as required.
OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS
  • Other tasks as assigned

Typical Qualifications
Bachelor of Arts or Science Degree or equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the following knowledge, abilities and skills:
  • Knowledge of public library services and practices
  • Computer skills including a working knowledge of Windows, MS Office, internet search strategies, and electronic databases.
  • Good oral and written communication skills and the ability to communicate with others in a tactful and courteous manner
  • Ability to learn new technologies and software and communicate that knowledge to others.
  • Ability to learn library procedures, polices, and able to communicate these to the public
  • Ability to work independently with creativity
  • Ability to instruct varied age groups in using electronic databases and print resources for information
  • Ability to provide reference and reader's advisory services to the public in person,via telephone, and via electronic media
  • Ability to to deal with public relations problems courteously and tactfully.
  • Ability to work as a team member, maintaining effective relationships with co-workers
  • Ability to stand and walk for several hours
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to lift at least 30 lbs; push a loaded book cart (200 lbs) on carpeting
  • Ability to read fine print (font sizes of 8 or larger)
  • Ability to hear the library's security gate alarm, computer alters, and a normal speaking voice
  • Maintains regular punctual and predictable attendance
  • Ability to speak Spanish or Hmong a plus

Supplemental Information
COMPETENCIES
Communication
Customer Focus
Handling Difficult People
Problem Solving
Adaptability/Flexibility
To learn more about these competencies click
Employees in this class are afforded full benefits (pro-rated), life insurance, long-term disability insurance and paid leave benefits. (Health insurance is not included under 30 hours per week)
To view the current Benefits Booklet online, click
For a more detailed overview of our benefit package,