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Online Reference Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Reference Librarian

Library, PA ยท On-site

$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 ...

Reference Librarian

Washington, DC ยท 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. โ€ข Library Instruction and ...

... online databases and/or printed resources. This individual will staff the Reference Desk, provide outreach planning and implementation, and/or by leading Library Instruction sessions to classes and ...

Academic reference librarian. This part time professional role provides and promotes effective ... Knowledge of library research and online searching. * Strong organizational and analytical skills ...

Academic reference librarian. This part time professional role provides and promotes effective ... Knowledge of library research and online searching. * Strong organizational and analytical skills ...

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Online Reference Librarian information

See salary details

$26K

$62.1K

$100.5K

How much do online reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 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 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 skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an online reference librarian?

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 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:

Infographic showing various Online Reference Librarian job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 63% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,056 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Online Reference & Instruction Librarian

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.

Bowie, MD โ€ข On-site

$60 - $65/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Key responsibilities

  • Provides and promotes library support services to online students, staff, and faculty.

  • Assists patrons with reference questions, research sessions, and using library resources.

  • Oversees all aspects of Online Technical Services, including acquisitions, serials, cataloging, and collection development.


Job description

Job Posting: 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 Reference and Instructional Librarian provides Instruction and research assistance to both online and on-campus students, faculty, and staff by creating online tutorials, self-guided library instruction modules, holding one-on-one research meetings, and purchasing materials. Works independently under the direct supervision/collaboration of the Dean of the Library. An important part of the position is supporting the mission of the University and the Library in advancing academic excellence and student success goals for the distance learning community.

Responsibilities: Distance Services
  • Provides and promotes library support services to all online students, staff, and faculty.
  • Develops and maintains library online presence, online technologies, and instructional materials for online education.
Research/Instructional Services
  • Assists patrons with reference questions, research sessions, and with using and accessing Library tools and information resources.
  • Provides research project consultations with on-campus and online faculty and students.
  • Coordinates and conducts online and face-to-face instructional programs/sessions to promote and ensure library assessment, collection development, and other library services.
Collections Management
  • Oversees all aspects of Online Technical Services, including acquisitions, serials, cataloging, and collection development.
  • Collaborates with faculty and staff to develop collections and resources to support on-campus and online learning programs.
  • Coordinates the development of electronic resources, including electronic databases, e-journals, e-books, and emerging technologies.
  • Prepares monthly summary, statistical and evaluative reports, of all activities.
  • Serves as a library liaison to the online programs of the university, providing recommendations for purchases and resources.
  • Participates as an active member of the Bowie State University faculty.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Minimum three years of professional experience in an academic or research library.
  • Minimum two years of experience directly assisting public, academic, or research library users.
  • Demonstrated ability to instruct residential and online university students in the use of library resources, both electronic and print.
  • Strong commitment to information literacy, customer service, and support of the academic and research needs of students, faculty, and staff.
  • Knowledge of online databases, electronic resources, and integrated library systems (ILS) as applied to the academic library setting.
  • Experience preferred as an embedded librarian, instructional designer, or help desk technician in learning management systems.
  • Experience preferred in developing online tutorials.
  • Proven team player in a highly collaborative environment.
  • Advanced proficiency in subject classification of materials in all formats and the Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Meticulous attention to detail, efficiency, and thoroughness.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with various academic constituencies.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work in a collaborative environment.
  • Proven initiative and self-direction.
Conditions of Employment:
  • Must be available to work evenings and weekends.
Additional Job Information:

Bowie State University shall not discriminate against any individual on the basis of race, color, religion, age, ancestry or national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, marital status or veteran status. All policies, programs, and activities of Bowie State University are and shall be in conformity with all pertinent Federal and state laws of nondiscrimination including, but not limited to: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Equal Pay Act of 1963, the Age Discrimination Act, Sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Federal Executive Order No. 11375, and Article 49B of the Annotated Code of Maryland. This commitment applies in all areas and embraces faculty, staff, and students. Equal opportunity of access to academic and related programs shall be extended to all persons. Bowie State University shall have as its firm objective equal opportunity in recruitment and hiring, rate of pay, all other promotions, training, retention and dismissals, for all employees and applicants for employment. The University will stress equal access for employees and applicants for employment to all programs and services provided by the University both on and off campus. The University will also provide equal opportunity and an atmosphere of nondiscrimination with respect to women and members of minority groups in all its operations. In addition, the University shall promote equal opportunity and equal treatment through a positive and continuing affirmative Action Program. The University makes, and will continue to make, reasonable accommodations to promote the employment of qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans, unless such accommodations would impose an undue hardship on the Universityโ€™s business. In addition, employees and applicants will not be subjected to harassment, intimidation, threats, coercion, or discrimination because they have engaged in, or may have engaged in, activities such as filing a complaint, assisting or participating in an investigation, compliance review or hearing, or opposing any act or practice made unlawful, or exercising any other right protected by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended or the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, as amended.

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