Reference Librarian
(Focus on Adult Literacy Services)
Do you want to make a measurable and visible difference? Do you have a passion for developing and delivering literacy services to marginalized communities? If you have a strong commitment to adult literacy, excellent communication and technology skills, and a track record of success working with lifelong learners, then Middle Georgia Regional Library invites you to apply for the position of Reference Librarian – Focus on Adult Literacy Services.
The Reference Librarian is a vital team member in fulfilling the Library’s mission “to connect all people to the information necessary to improve their lives through excellent services and materials.”
Our work culture:
Middle Georgia Regional Library fosters a collaborative culture where teamwork is necessary to make a difference. Our staff is the engine that drives our award-winning facilities, innovative programming, and extensive collections.
Diverse backgrounds, identities, and experiences bring unique strengths and perspectives to our team. We embrace each member’s unique identity to ensure our service reflects our diverse community.
Staff at MGRL enjoy a generous benefits package which includes 20 days of vacation leave, 10 days of sick leave, 11 paid holidays, membership in the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia, and medical insurance through the State Health Benefit Plan.
Our community:
Middle Georgia Regional Library is anchored in Macon, Georgia. Macon is a vibrant community that values education, lifelong-learning, and is highly-invested in library service. The community has a rich history, incredible architecture, stunning southern charm, and a soulful musical heritage. The city is home to 5 colleges and universities, 6 museums, sports teams, Ocmulgee National Monument, and numerous parks and festivals. Macon has all of the benefits of a large city with a small town cost of living.
Position summary:
Under the general supervision of the Head of Washington, the Reference Librarian provides general and specialized reference assistance to public library patrons. This position is expected to have knowledge of the library collection, resources (both electronic and print), library policies, and procedures.
This position is housed at the reference desk of Washington Memorial Library, and the workload will vary daily. In addition to typical reference duties, the Reference Librarian will focus on improving the Macon-Bibb literacy rate, providing reading recommendations, and increasing circulation.
Additional information:
This position will contribute to collection development, programming, compiling user guides, collection of statistics, and positive overall user experience.
The successful candidate will have experience and/or knowledge of a variety of library services and activities. The position requires a high degree of flexibility to produce services that are relevant and accessible to each segment of the population that we serve. They will build community relationships and contribute to community goals.
This position will enjoy significant support to attain these goals at Middle Georgia Regional Library with an enthusiastic and committed staff of professionals, management, and paraprofessionals.
Essential duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
- Furnishes information on library activities, facilities, rules, and services.
- Explains and assists in use of reference resources, such as book and periodical indexes, to locate information.
- Describes or demonstrates procedures for navigating the public access catalog and electronic resources.
- Answers queries on complicated reference subjects, including formulating and processing online search requests.
- Provides instruction and actively participates in the development and design of classes on use of the library and its resources.
- Provides instruction and actively participates in the development and design of classes on computer skills.
- Assembles and arranges displays of books and other library materials.
- Helps organize and maintain reference materials.
- Compiles bibliographies and develops library user guides, both printed and electronic.
- Assists in reference collection development, including planning and promoting electronic information resources and services.
- Helps catalog and classify reference materials.
Required Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in Library or Library and Information Science from an ALA-accredited university, or ability to obtain MLS/MLIS within one year after date of hire.
- Reading Endorsement, Literacy Specialist Certificate, or equivalent will be accepted in lieu of MLIS.
- Experience working with the public.
Salary:
- Starting at $46,980 annually, with an MLS/MLIS.
- $22 per hour without an MLS/MLIS.
Benefits:
- Vacation (accrual starting at 20 days per year)
- Sick Leave (10 days per year)
- 11 paid holidays per year
- Macon-Bibb County life insurance
- Teachers Retirement System of Georgia defined benefit retirement plan (401A) – 6% employee contribution, 20.78% employer contribution
- State Health Benefit Plan (medical insurance)
About MGRL:
Middle Georgia Regional Library serves seven counties through 17 locations across central Georgia.
Our Vision:
Our Vision for Middle Georgia is a literate, engaged, and enlightened community.
Our Mission:
The mission of Middle Georgia Regional Library is to connect all people to the information necessary to improve their lives through excellent services and materials.
Our Values:
- Convenient and equal access for all
- Good stewardship of taxpayer resources
- Highly skilled library personnel
- All are treated with kindness and respect
To apply:
Email resume, cover letter, contact information for three references, and MGRL employment application found at https://shorturl.at/cowzY to jobs@bibblib.org.
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Applicants who are not selected will not receive notification.
First review of applicants is Thursday, February 12, 2026 at 12:00 PM.
