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Assistant Reference Librarian Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Austintexas

Library Assistant Purpose: Under general supervision, this position serves as support for ... Instructs and assists staff and the public with using reference sources, automated information ...

GovernmentJobs.com

Library Assistant II

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$21 - $24.15/hr

Library Assistant II The Downtown Branch at The Slover invites applicants for a part-time Library ... answering reference and directional questions, and recommending reading material * Performs ...

City of Norfolk

Library Assistant II

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$43K - $73K/yr

The successful candidate will assist with the daily operations of the library and support patrons ... answering reference and directional questions, and recommending reading material Performs ...

City of Norfolk, VA

Library Assistant II

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$21 - $24.15/hr

Library Assistant II Print ( Apply  Library Assistant II Salary $43,696.64 - $73,207.11 Annually ... answering reference and directional questions, and recommending reading material * Performs ...

Fortbendcountytx

$15.30/hr

Live Here! Work Here! Part-time-Library Assistant-Youth Services-First Colony * Assist the ... Provide answers to reference questions, referring complicated or difficult questions to the ...

City of Norfolk, VA

Library Assistant II

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$43K - $73K/yr

The successful candidate will assist with the daily operations of the library and support patrons ... answering reference and directional questions, and recommending reading material * Performs ...

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Assistant Reference Librarian information

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

AspectAssistant Reference LibrarianReference Librarian
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS)Master's degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS)
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special libraries assisting patrons with researchPublic, academic, or special libraries providing reference services and research support
Job ResponsibilitiesSupporting reference services, helping patrons locate resources, and assisting with researchLeading reference services, conducting research consultations, and managing information resources

The main difference is that Assistant Reference Librarians typically support reference services and assist patrons under supervision, while Reference Librarians often take on more independent roles, managing complex research inquiries and leading reference activities. Both roles require a Master's in Library Science and are common in similar library settings.

What is an assistant reference librarian?

Assistant Reference Librarians are library professionals who help patrons locate information, conduct research, and use library resources effectively. They support reference librarians by answering questions, providing guidance on using catalogs and databases, and assisting with research projects. Their duties often include organizing materials, teaching users about library technology, and sometimes planning educational programs. They play a key role in ensuring that library visitors have a positive and productive experience.

How does an assistant reference librarian collaborate with other library staff to support patrons?

Assistant Reference Librarians work closely with librarians, circulation staff, and technical services teams to ensure patrons receive comprehensive support. They often coordinate to locate resources, develop instructional materials, and assist with research queries. Regular communication and teamwork help maintain seamless service, especially during busy periods or when handling complex information requests. This collaboration not only enhances the patron experience but also provides valuable opportunities for learning and professional development within the library system.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an assistant reference librarian?

To thrive as an Assistant Reference Librarian, you need a solid understanding of research methods, information retrieval, and a degree in library science or a related field. Familiarity with library management systems, online databases, and digital cataloging tools is typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and customer service skills help you effectively assist patrons and collaborate with colleagues. These competencies ensure efficient access to information, high-quality patron support, and the smooth operation of library services.

What are the most commonly searched types of Reference Librarian jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Reference Librarian jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Reference Librarian jobs in Virginia?

For Assistant Reference Librarian jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Reference Librarian jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Reference Librarian jobs in Virginia are:

Assistant Reference Librarian jobs near you

Research and Instruction Librarian for the Social Sciences

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA • On-site

$68K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Washington and Lee University rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
Description
Washington and Lee University Library welcomes applications from collaborative, user-focused, and inclusive early career librarians to join the Research Services team as Research and Instruction Librarian for the Social Sciences.
Reporting to the Head of Research Services, the Research and Instruction Librarian for the Social Sciences will: serve as the primary liaison to disciplines in or related to the social sciences; contribute to general reference and instruction, collection management, and outreach activities in collaboration with the Research Services team; and participate in service and scholarship activities as a member of the University Library and College faculties.
The Research and Instruction Librarian for the Social Sciences will be a 12-month, non-tenure track faculty member at the Assistant Professor rank. The appointment begins on or after January 1, 2027.
About the University and the Library
Washington and Lee University is a nationally ranked, private liberal arts institution located in Lexington, Virginia. W&L integrates the rigorous inquiry and critical thinking of a liberal arts curriculum with nationally accredited undergraduate programs in business and journalism, and a graduate School of Law. Our academic units are strengthened by meaningful collaborations, all in the service of the university's mission. With an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 1,860, our small size enables students to find mentors and develop personal relationships across campus. W&L is committed to institutional citizenship. We regard liberal arts education as an important public good, of value not only to our students and alumni, but also to the larger communities in which we live.
Washington and Lee University promotes a dynamic and welcoming environment that allows students and employees of multiple backgrounds and perspectives to learn, work, and thrive together. Successful candidates will contribute to that environment and exhibit potential for excellence in teaching and for rigorous scholarship. We welcome applications from candidates that would contribute to the University's mission and strategic plan.
The University Library serves W&L's central mission of teaching, learning, and research in the liberal arts through close engagement with undergraduate and campus communities. We steward approximately 1.6M physical and digital items in 100,000+ square feetof public space with a total faculty/staff of 23. The University Library is the home of W&L's Digital Culture and Information (DCI) minor program. Library faculty serve as initial and minor program advisors for undergraduates, may teach courses in DCI and other disciplines, and participate in faculty governance, service, and scholarship opportunities.
Essential and Related Functions
  • Serves as the library's primary liaison to academic departments in or related to the social sciences for the purposes of supporting disciplinary teaching and research and facilitating communication between the library and departments. This may include information literacy instruction, subject-based reference and consultative services, and departmental and individual outreach.
  • As a member of the Research Services team, provides general outreach and expert research advice to students, faculty, staff, administrators, and community visitors.
  • Collaborates with colleagues across the library to recommend selection and deselection of research and teaching resources for the library's collection.
  • Serves as a faculty member of the College.
    • Participates in teaching activities of the library, which may include advising students and/or teaching credit bearing courses, among other opportunities.
    • Engages in pertinent ongoing service, research, scholarship, and/or creative activity as defined by the library's Departmental Faculty Development Document.
    • Participates in professional development activities as appropriate to meet personal and departmental goals and objectives.
  • Performs other duties as assigned by the University Librarian or Head of Research Services.

Compensation
The expected salary for this position is between $68,000 - $75,000. Offers are based on factors such as relevant education, experience, internal equity, and market and organizational considerations.
Washington and Lee University offers a generous and comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being of employees and their families, as well as substantial support for faculty development through professional development funding and a strong culture of mentorship. To learn more about working at W&L, employee benefits, and life in the Shenandoah Valley, visit jobs.wlu.edu.
Qualifications
  • ALA-accredited MLS or equivalent relevant terminal degree. Holding a terminal degree in a relevant field is a requirement of faculty status.
  • Any combination of experience and coursework in the fundamentals of subject-based research support, such as information literacy, reference, instruction, and collection management. This may include pre-degree experience.
  • Demonstrated interest in one or more of the following social science fields taught at Washington and Lee: sociology, anthropology, journalism, mass communication, education, or women and gender studies.

Application Instructions
Review of applications will begin September 14, 2026, and continue until position is filled.
Candidates should submit:
  • A letter of application describing interest in the position and addressing the qualifications.
  • A complete professional CV.

Names and contact information for three professional or academic references will be requested from finalists.
All materials should be submitted via Interfolio at https://apply.interfolio.com/191078.
University Librarian K.T. Vaughan is eager to speak with potential candidates who have questions before applying. Please contact her at kvaughan@wlu.edu.

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