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Library Research Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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 ... Assists with events by setting up displays, creating promotional materials, and researching and ...

The Research Assistant will assist the Dean or a Faculty member of the Law School with various projects by utilizing library and internet resources to research topics and then summarize the findings.

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 ... Assists with events by setting up displays, creating promotional materials, and researching and ...

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 ... Assists with events by setting up displays, creating promotional materials, and researching and ...

Library Assistant Purpose: Under general supervision, this position serves as support for ... and research needs. * Sorts books, publications, and other items according to established ...

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Library Research Assistant information

What does a library research assistant do?

A Library Research Assistant supports librarians and library users by helping with research tasks, locating resources, and organizing materials. They often assist patrons in finding books, articles, or data, and may help with cataloging or maintaining digital collections. Research assistants may also support academic projects, gather information for faculty or students, and help manage interlibrary loans. Their work ensures library services run smoothly and users have access to the information they need.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a library research assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Research Assistant, you need strong research, information retrieval, and organizational skills, often supported by coursework or experience in library science or a related field. Familiarity with library databases, cataloging systems, and digital research tools like JSTOR or ProQuest is typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and customer service skills help you collaborate with library staff and assist patrons efficiently. These abilities ensure accurate information delivery and foster a supportive learning environment for library users.

What are some common challenges faced by library research assistants when supporting patrons with research inquiries?

Library Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as locating credible and up-to-date resources across diverse subjects, especially when patrons have complex or interdisciplinary research needs. Balancing multiple requests during peak periods can also be demanding, requiring strong organizational and time management skills. Additionally, they may need to guide users who are unfamiliar with library databases or digital tools, which calls for patience and clear communication. Successful Library Research Assistants are adaptable and resourceful, often collaborating closely with librarians and academic staff to ensure patrons get the most accurate and relevant information.

What is the difference between Library Research Assistant vs Library Technician?

AspectLibrary Research AssistantLibrary Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant courseworkAssociate's degree or certification in library technology
Work EnvironmentAcademic, public, or research librariesPublic, academic, or special libraries
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with research, data collection, and resource organizationManaging cataloging, circulation, and technical services
Common UsageResearch support and information gatheringTechnical and operational library tasks

The main difference between a Library Research Assistant and a Library Technician lies in their focus and responsibilities. Library Research Assistants primarily support research activities and assist users with information gathering, while Library Technicians handle technical tasks like cataloging and managing library systems. Both roles are essential in library settings and often require similar educational backgrounds, but their day-to-day duties differ based on their focus areas.

What are popular job titles related to Library Research Assistant jobs in Virginia?

For Library Research Assistant jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Library Research Assistant jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Research Assistant jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Library Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Library Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Research Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Reference Desk Research Assistant for School of Law Library

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA • On-site

Part-time

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


Liberty University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

190th of 621 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The principal role of the Reference Desk Research Assistant is to provide excellent research services to the law school's students and faculty. This is a position that demands legal research skills, a customer-service mindset, and a high level of professionalism. This position primarily reports to the Associate Librarian for Public Services and the library's Access Services Coordinator/Supervisor(s).
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Provides excellent customer service by answering basic legal research questions from faculty and students.
  • Maintains the library's reference section by reshelving and shifting books, reading reference shelves, updating legal reference texts, and cleaning.
  • Aids the Associate Librarian for Public Services in upkeeping library LibGuides related to legal research and artificial intelligence.
  • Prepares library spaces for reference outreach events such as tabling and workshops.
  • Assists the Associate Librarian for Public Services by creating marketing materials to advertise library databases, services, and collections.
  • Completes special projects assigned by the Associate Librarian for Public Services or Access Services Coordinator/Supervisor(s).
  • Contributes to the annual preparation for and execution of the 1L Legal Research Intensive.
  • Keeps a vigilant posture while staffing the Reference Desk to identify patrons who may need assistance.
  • Demonstrates the ability to work in and with diverse populations, supporting an inclusive environment.
  • Complies with the Liberty University School of Law business casual dress code.
  • Strictly adheres to Liberty University policies, representing the University in an exemplary manner.
  • Works effectively as a team member, embracing and fostering LU's Christian model and Mission - Training Champions for Christ.

Additional information may be found here
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
None.
QUALIFICATIONS AND CREDENTIALS
Education and Experience
  • Current enrollment in Liberty University School of Law is required.
  • One year of law school experience is required.
  • Grade point average of 3.0 or above is preferred.
  • A grade of B- or higher in LAW 527: Legal Research Intensive is preferred.
  • Federal Work Study status is preferred
  • Previous customer service experience preferred.
  • Some knowledge of the Library of Congress classification and call number system preferred.

ABILITIES AND COMPETENCIES ESSENTIAL TO THE FUNCTION OF THE JOB
Communication and Comprehension
  • Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing to convey clear, well-articulated information.
  • Ability to understand, speak, and write English in order to convey messages and correspond in an articulate and professional manner.
  • Possess public communication skills that allow professional representation of Liberty University.
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Basic computer skills and familiarity with Microsoft 365.
  • Ability to work independently and exercise good judgment and discretion.
  • Promptness and reliability to follow scheduled hours.
  • Ability to maintain an attitude of courtesy, respect, and tact when dealing with others.
  • Ability to read call number labels quickly and accurately.
  • Ability to use Lexis, Westlaw, Bloomberg, HeinOnline, and other library databases proficiently. Basic understanding is acceptable and further training will be provided.
  • Ability to use simple marketing tools such as Canva or Adobe Photoshop. Basic understanding of marketing concepts is acceptable and further training will be provided.
  • Ability to conform to job guidelines that differentiate reference work from improper peer collaboration.

Problem Solving
  • Intuitively able to reason, analyze information and events, and apply judgment in order to solve problems of both a routine and complex nature.
Physical and Sensory Abilities
  • May be required to travel to other areas of Green Hall.
  • Regularly required to sit to perform deskwork and type on a keyboard.
  • Regularly required to see, hear, and speak in order to effectively communicate with patrons.
  • Regularly required to stand, walk, and climb stairs to move about the campus.
  • Regularly required to handle materials, reach overhead, kneel or stoop in order to conduct business.
  • Regularly required to lift 20 or fewer pounds and push book carts weighing up to 250 pounds.

WORKING CONDITIONS
Work Environment
The working environment in which one will typically perform the essential functions of this position is a climate-controlled setting. It is well lighted, and the noise level is moderate. Working environment may include facilitation of events outdoors occasionally.
Driving Requirements
If the employee is required to travel in performing the duties and responsibilities of the position, the use of one's personal vehicle (or LU vehicles) may be required for travel. Proof of a valid driver's license, an acceptable DMV record, LU Driving Approval, and liability insurance is required when driving in the performance of the employee's position.
Time Type
Part time
Location
Onsite
Pay Rate
Starting at $12.77
Student employees are paid at least the current Virginia minimum wage per hour. Pay may vary by position and department based on job responsibilities, required skills, available funding, and market conditions.
The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe it is our moral and legal obligation to meet the responsibility of ensuring that all management practices regarding employees are conducted in a nondiscriminatory manner. In compliance with Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, and other applicable federal and state statutes, all recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting for all job classifications will be administered without regard to race, color, ancestry, age, sex, national origin, pregnancy or childbirth, disability, military veteran status or other applicable status protected by law, including state of employment protected classes. It is, therefore, our policy and intention to evaluate all employees and prospective employees strictly according to the requirements of the job. All personnel related activities such as compensation, benefits, transfers, job classification, assignments, working conditions, educational assistance, terminations, layoffs, and return from layoffs, and all other terms, conditions and privileges of employment will be administered without regard to race, color, ancestry, age, sex, national origin, pregnancy or childbirth, disability, military veteran status or other applicable status protected by law, including all applicable state of employment protected classes. The University is a Christian religious-affiliated organization; and as such, is not subject to religious discrimination requirements. The University's hiring practices and EEO discrimination practices are in full compliance with both federal and state law. Federal law creates an exception to the "religion" component of the employment discrimination laws for religious organizations (including educational institutions), and permits them to give employment practice preference to members of their own religious beliefs.

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