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Substitute Reference Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Colburn

Performance Librarian

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

The Performance Librarian also serves as the Librarian for the Colburn Orchestra. Essential Duties ... and substitute players, including mailing, scanning, creation of practice parts, and uploading ...

Colburn

Performance Librarian

Los Angeles, CA

The Performance Librarian also serves as the Librarian for the Colburn Orchestra. Essential Duties ... and substitute players, including mailing, scanning, creation of practice parts, and uploading ...

City of Livonia

Substitute Librarian

Livonia, MI

$20 - $22/hr

A Substitute Librarian may be required to supervise a small staff of clerical and paraprofessional ... General office work Readers' advisory service Use of audio-visual materials General reference desk ...

City of Livonia, MI

Substitute Librarian

Livonia, MI · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

A Substitute Librarian may be required to supervise a small staff of clerical and paraprofessional ... General reference desk duties. * Assist patrons in the use of the library. * Assist patrons using ...

City of Detroit

Librarian II- Adult Services

Detroit, MI · On-site

$56K - $63K/yr

... substitutes as reference librarian at other library locations as needed. Provides support to the assigned Library - supervisor on matters as directed; participates on a variety of committees as ...

Cromaine Library

Substitute Librarian

Hartland, MI · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... substitute position. Provides services to patrons of all ages; helps patrons to use the library ... Provide positive reference and reader's advisory services * Acquaints patrons with the resources of ...

Cromaine Library

Substitute Librarian

Hartland, MI

... substitute position. Provides services to patrons of all ages; helps patrons to use the library ... Provide positive reference and reader's advisory services * Acquaints patrons with the resources of ...

Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District

$70.84 - $86.11/hr

Master's in library science, library and information science, OR * The equivalent. NOTE : If you ... Adjunct, Overload and Substitute Salary Schedule. Additional Information SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS TO ...

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Substitute Reference Librarian information

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$25K

$55.7K

$78K

How much do substitute reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for substitute reference librarian in the United States is $55,696.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $64,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a substitute reference librarian?

To thrive as a Substitute Reference Librarian, you need a solid understanding of library science principles, research methods, and typically a master's degree in library science (MLS or MLIS). Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), online databases, and cataloging tools such as OCLC WorldCat is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and effective communication set outstanding librarians apart, especially when assisting diverse patrons or covering various shifts. These skills ensure efficient information retrieval, quality patron service, and smooth library operations during staff absences.

What is a substitute reference librarian?

A Substitute Reference Librarian is a professional who temporarily fills in for regular reference librarians, assisting library patrons with information needs, research, and the use of library resources. They may work on an as-needed basis, covering shifts due to staff absences or busy periods. Their duties often include answering reference questions, providing research assistance, and helping users access library catalogs and databases. Substitute Reference Librarians are expected to have strong research and customer service skills, as well as familiarity with library systems and resources. Their flexible role is crucial in maintaining consistent library services.

What is the difference between Substitute Reference Librarian vs Reference Librarian?

AspectSubstitute Reference LibrarianReference Librarian
CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS) or equivalentMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent
Work EnvironmentTemporary or as-needed basis, covering absencesFull-time or part-time, regular schedule in libraries
Employer UsageLibraries hire substitutes for short-term coverageLibraries employ as a primary staff member
Search & ComparisonOften searched for as temporary or relief librarianStandard professional librarian role

The main difference is that a Substitute Reference Librarian works temporarily to cover absences, while a Reference Librarian holds a regular, ongoing position. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in employment type and work schedule.

What are some challenges substitute reference librarians face when adapting to different library environments?

Substitute Reference Librarians often work in various branches or institutions, which requires them to quickly familiarize themselves with different catalog systems, policies, and community needs. They must be adaptable and resourceful, as procedures and expectations can vary widely from one location to another. Building rapport with both staff and patrons in a short time frame can also be challenging, but strong communication skills and a willingness to learn help substitutes succeed in diverse environments.
More about Substitute Reference Librarian jobs
What cities are hiring for Substitute Reference Librarian jobs? Cities with the most Substitute Reference Librarian job openings:
What job categories do people searching Substitute Reference Librarian jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Substitute Reference Librarian jobs are:
Substitute Reference Librarian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substitute Reference Librarian job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Locum Tenens, 37% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,696 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Adjunct Reference Librarian

Yakima Valley College

Yakima, WA • On-site

$920/wk

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : Yakima, WA
Job Type: Part-Time Faculty
Job Number: PTF16-001
Division: Library and Media Services
Opening Date: 01/28/2016
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
Our Mission Statement:
As a federally designated Hispanic-serving Institution residing on the traditional homelands of the 14 Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, Yakima Valley College cultivates equity and a culture of innovative and inclusive teaching and learning.
Yakima Valley College serves all students holistically, supports all students' learning goals, and fosters achievement within career and educational pathways.
We strengthen our communities by providing opportunities for personal enrichment, economic mobility, and sociocultural engagement.
We invite you to consider joining Yakima Valley College (YVC), an innovative and equity-focused designated Hispanic-serving institution that is committed to the pursuit of equitable student learning outcomes for its diverse students.
Adjunct Reference Librarian
Part-Time, Non-Tenure
Anticipated Start Date: ASAP
Salary:
$920 per Instructional Unit
Up to 10 IU's/Quarter
Yakima Valley College is accepting applications for an adjunct Reference Librarian in the Instructional and Student Services Division - Library and Media Services. This is a part-time position.
The adjunct Reference Librarian will be committed to community college students and their success. The successful applicant will be accomplished and active in their discipline, committed to participating in a multicultural, interdisciplinary learning environment, and skilled in the technology of learning and research.
Essential Tasks
JOB PROFILE:
  • Provide reference assistance and willing to work a flexible schedule of mid-day Monday through Thursday, and Friday early morning to mid-afternoon
  • Provide reference services to students, staff and the community at-large as well as to remote users, including eLearning students and students at our Grandview campus

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Working knowledge of basic reference sources, electronic information resources and systems, and electronic databases
  • Knowledge of confidentiality laws, copyright laws, regulations, policies and ethics regarding libraries and materials
  • Understanding of and commitment to the mission and educational role of a community college
  • Ability to work with non-traditional patrons
  • Interpersonal skills and ability to provide excellent customer service
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills

Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • ALA accredited Master's Degree in Library Science (MLS, MSLS, MLIS) or equivalent
  • Minimum of two years full-time professional reference experience, or equivalent
  • Demonstrated computer literacy skills
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Experience with ExLibris Voyager OPAC and circulation module
  • Ability to use a variety of software applications
  • Experience in an academic library environment

Supplemental Information
Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, you MUST submit a complete YVC Online Employment Application, and include the following REQUIRED attachments:
  • A cover letter describing how you meet the qualifications of this position (a generic cover letter will not be accepted)
  • A current resume (a resume will not substitute for the "work experience" section of the online application)
  • Three (3) professional references (personal references do not count as professional)
  • Unofficial transcripts for confirmation of degree (if minimum qualifications require a degree). The successful candidate will be required to submit official transcripts at time of hire
  • Certifications/Credentials as required for fulfillment of the minimum qualifications.
  • Supplemental Question: The college requires a Diversity and Inclusion response as part of its application materials. The statement is found in the supplemental question area of the application. Please respond (NO MORE than two pages in length) in the text box area provided or upload the document to your application as an attachment.

Please note: Failure to follow the above application instructions will lead to disqualification. Please do not include any attachments other than the ones requested above. E-mailed documents will not be accepted after the closing of the recruitment or in lieu of attaching your documents to the online application.
Supplemental Information:Those applicants invited to interview may be required to complete a skills test.
Candidates will be subject to a Criminal History Background Check as a condition for consideration of employment.
"In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire."
Yakima Valley College does not discriminate against any person based on their race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation and/or gender identity, age, marital status, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, honorably discharged veteran or military status, genetic information, or any other prohibited basis in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services and activities, or in employment. All inquiries regarding compliance should be directed to Alma Ramirez, Chief Human Resources Officer, Yakima Valley College, 1015 South 16th Avenue, Yakima, Washington, 98902; email aramirez@yvcc.edu; telephone 509.574.4671.
Yakima Valley College's Annual Safety and Fire Report is available online at https://www.yvcc.edu/services/safety-security, containing mandated information about current campus policies concerning safety and security issues, required statistics, and other related information for the past three calendar years. To obtain a paper copy of the report, please call 509.574.4610.
Applicants with disabilities who require assistance with the recruitment process will be accommodated to the extent reasonably possible.
All positions are subject to funding.
Yakima Valley College offers a selection of health and retirement plans allowing you to take advantage of the plans that work for you. We also offer paid leave, development and career opportunities, and other compensation benefits. Benefit packages are a key component of our Total Compensation Model.
Insurance Benefits
Yakima Valley College offers medical (including vision), and dental. There are several medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state. Employees are also covered by basic life and long term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts. To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees can elect to participate in the Teachers Retirement System (TRS) Plan 3 or the State Board Retirement Plan (SBRP) through TIAA. For additional information, check out the ' web site. Employees can elect to participate in the Washington State Board Retirement Plan instead, check out the plan vendor at for more information.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the (DCP), a supplemental retirement savings program that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Please refer to the for more detailed information.
01
The college requires a Diversity and Inclusion response as part of its application materials, which is a response to the following statement. Please respond (NO MORE than two pages in length) in the text box area below or upload the document to your application as an attachment.What personal and professional work have you done, or would you do, to incorporate culturally responsive pedagogy and inclusive curricula in your work with students?How do these equitable and inclusive practices affect instructor and student roles, and the outcomes of teaching/learning, if the goal is to increase overall student performance?
Required Question

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