This dissertation explores the phenomena of occupational mistakes and failures in an academic reference department in light of the roles played by reference librarians and their definitions of dirty work. The study sought to examine how academic reference librarians characterize their roles, define occupational mistakes, and develop strategies for managing mistakes. In addition, the concept of dirty work was examined in light of its relationship to occupational mistakes. The study sought to gain an insiders's view of academic reference work. Consequently, qualitative methods of participant observation and interviews were used to gather data. The theoretical framework of symbolic interactionism provided the basic theoretical orientation toward the research project. Additionally, the work of Everett C. Hughes and Charles L. Bosk aided in the understanding of the concepts of mistakes and dirty work. The findings suggest that academic reference librarians play a variety of roles that often conflict with one another. Additionally, dirty-work designations tend to play a role in librarians' definitions of mistakes and failures. The study also discusses how academic reference librarians define mistakes, manage mistakes, and cope with dirty-work.