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Online Reference Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Library of Congress

Reference Librarian

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$70K - $91K/yr

The librarian is responsible for facilitating research and reference instruction and support onsite ... Increases access to and convenience of online resources and services by assisting in preparing ...

Westcliff University

Reference Librarian

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

The Reference librarian reports to the Director of the Law Library. Requirements: Key ... Contributing to collection development for both online and print resources * Provide an occasional ...

Westcliff University

Reference Librarian

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

The Reference librarian reports to the Director of the Law Library. Requirements Key ... Contributing to collection development for both online and print resources * Provide an occasional ...

Westcliff University

Reference Librarian

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

The Reference librarian reports to the Director of the Law Library. Requirements Key ... Contributing to collection development for both online and print resources * Provide an occasional ...

Howard University

Reference Librarian

Washington, DC · On-site

$48K - $58K/yr

... online resources. o Answer basic reference questions and escalate more complex inquiries to senior librarians as needed. o Develop faculty research support skills. • Library Instruction and ...

Howard University

Reference Librarian

Washington, DC · On-site

... online resources. o Answer basic reference questions and escalate more complex inquiries to senior librarians as needed. o Develop faculty research support skills. • Library Instruction and ...

Marylandconnect

JR100911 Online Reference & Instruction Librarian (Open) Department: Library, JM Position Type: Non-Regular Fixed Term (Fixed Term) Open Date: 05-19-2025 Close Date: $60,000 - $65,000 The Online ...

Howard

Reference Librarian

Library, PA

... other online resources. o Answer basic reference questions and escalate more complex inquiries to senior librarians as needed. o Develop faculty research support skills. Library Instruction and ...

Howard

Reference Librarian

Library, PA

$48K - $58K/yr

... other online resources. o Answer basic reference questions and escalate more complex inquiries to senior librarians as needed. o Develop faculty research support skills. Library Instruction and ...

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All JobsOnline Reference Librarian Jobs

Online Reference Librarian information

See salary details

$26K

$62.1K

$100.5K

How much do online reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for online reference librarian in the United States is $62,056.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $72,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Online Reference Librarian, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Online Reference Librarian, you need strong research skills, knowledge of information resources, and a degree in library science (typically an MLS or MLIS). Proficiency with digital library databases, online catalog systems, and virtual reference platforms is essential. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and customer service orientation set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure users receive accurate, timely information and support in navigating digital resources effectively.

How does an Online Reference Librarian typically collaborate with faculty and students in a virtual environment?

Online Reference Librarians work closely with faculty and students by providing real-time research assistance through chat, email, and video consultations. They often collaborate with faculty to develop tailored research guides and support curriculum needs, while also hosting virtual workshops on information literacy. Regular communication with students ensures timely help with finding resources, citing materials, and navigating digital databases. This collaborative approach helps foster a supportive, resource-rich virtual learning environment.

What does an Online Reference Librarian do?

An Online Reference Librarian provides research assistance and information services to library users through digital platforms such as email, chat, and virtual consultations. They help patrons find credible sources, navigate databases, and answer questions related to academic or personal research. Online Reference Librarians also create and maintain digital guides, recommend resources, and may assist with information literacy instruction. Their role is essential in connecting users to reliable information, regardless of their physical location.

What is the difference between Online Reference Librarian vs Public Librarian?

AspectOnline Reference LibrarianPublic Librarian
CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS)Master's degree in Library Science (MLS)
Work EnvironmentVirtual/remote settings, digital platformsPhysical library locations, community centers
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, online services, government agenciesPublic libraries, community organizations
Primary FocusProviding online research assistance and digital resourcesServing community patrons, managing library collections

Online Reference Librarians primarily assist users through digital platforms, focusing on online research and virtual support. Public Librarians work directly with community members in physical library settings, managing collections and providing in-person assistance. Both roles require similar credentials but differ mainly in work environment and daily responsibilities.

More about Online Reference Librarian jobs
What cities are hiring for Online Reference Librarian jobs? Cities with the most Online Reference Librarian job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Reference Librarian jobs? The most popular types of Reference Librarian jobs are:
What states have the most Online Reference Librarian jobs? States with the most job openings for Online Reference Librarian jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Online Reference Librarian jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Online Reference Librarian jobs are:
Online Reference Librarian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Online Reference Librarian job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,056 per year, or $29.8 per hour.
Reference Librarian

Reference Librarian

Library Systems & Services LLC

Washington, DC • On-site

Part-time

PTO

Posted 10 hours ago

Job description

Job Type
Part-time
Description
LAC Federal is seeking a highly qualified Reference Librarian to join our dynamic team. This hybrid position requires an on-site presence of at least 1-2 days per week, from 8:45-5:15, primarily for reference desk coverage as stipulated by contract requirements. The ideal candidate will hold a Master's degree in Library/Information Science or be actively enrolled in a graduate program for this degree. The Reference Librarian will be responsible for helping to provide exceptional reference and research services in the day to day running of the library, including participating in collection development, and contributing to various group projects as assigned by the project manager as well as updating policies and procedures as needed. This role offers a unique opportunity to work in a collaborative environment and make a significant impact on our library services.
Responsibilities:
  • Provide reference services to patrons, including but not limited to research assistance, topical literature reviews, and general questions received via phone, email or in-person.
  • Reference Desk Coverage: Provide in-person and remote reference and research assistance during designated hours.
  • Actively participate in collection development activities including selecting and weeding materials as we as recommend and evaluate print and/or digital resources appropriate for the collection.
  • Participate in collaborative projects such as an annual bibliometrics research, develop content for internal library website and other assigned tasks.
  • Literature Searches: Conduct systematic literature searches and respond to complex reference inquiries.
  • Other Duties: Perform additional duties as assigned by the project manager to support the library's mission and goals.

Requirements
Educational Requirements:
  • Master's degree in Library/Information Science from an institution accredited by the American Library Association, or currently enrolled in such a program.

Required Experience:
  • At least 2 years of experience providing reference and research services in a special or federal library.

Skills and Knowledge:
  • Proficiency in using print and online resources and tools for reference and research purposes. Experience using Ebsco, Scopus, Web of Science, Nexis and/or Westlaw preferred.
  • Proficiency/working knowledge of MS office, Outlook, Teams. Experience with Sharepoint, OCLC and Sirsi preferred.
  • Experience in selecting print and electronic resources for library collection development.
  • Ability to respond to complex reference questions and conduct systematic literature searches.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Self- starter must be able to work independently as well as part of a team.

Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to move from place to place within the location, lifting of items weighing up to (25) pounds and occasional up to 35 pounds such as files, books, stacks of paper, and other materials.
  • Ability to sit for long periods of time and to maintain focus on projects such as computer screens or detailed paperwork.

Benefits
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)

EEO Statement
The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Nothing in this job specification restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently.
Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.

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