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Virtual Library Assistant Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Virtual Library Assistant information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$10

$22

$31

How much do virtual library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for virtual library assistant in Columbia, SC is $22.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.89 and $25.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a virtual library assistant?

A Virtual Library Assistant is a professional who helps library users access resources, answer reference questions, and navigate digital library systems remotely, typically via chat, email, or video call. They assist with catalog searches, digital borrowing, research support, and troubleshooting access to online databases and e-books. This role allows patrons to receive library services without visiting a physical library, making information and resources more accessible to a wider audience.

How does a virtual library assistant typically collaborate with librarians and library patrons in a remote setting?

As a Virtual Library Assistant, you will frequently interact with librarians, library staff, and patrons through digital platforms such as email, chat, and video conferencing. Your responsibilities may include assisting patrons with research requests, troubleshooting access to electronic resources, and supporting librarians in managing digital collections. Communication is key, as you’ll often coordinate with team members to resolve issues or develop new virtual services. Being proactive and responsive helps ensure seamless remote support and a positive experience for all users.

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

To thrive as a Virtual Library Assistant, you need a solid understanding of library science fundamentals, information organization, and customer service, often supported by coursework or experience in library settings. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital cataloging tools, and online reference platforms is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and digital literacy skills help you assist users remotely and manage multiple inquiries efficiently. These skills ensure users receive timely, accurate support and that digital resources are managed effectively in a virtual environment.

What is the difference between Virtual Library Assistant vs Library Clerk?

AspectVirtual Library AssistantLibrary Clerk
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer library science courseworkHigh school diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentRemote, online platformsOn-site in libraries or public facilities
Employer & Industry UsageLibraries, educational institutions, online servicesPublic, academic, or special libraries
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for customer service and administrative tasksCompared for in-person assistance and clerical duties

The Virtual Library Assistant typically works remotely, handling online customer inquiries, cataloging, and administrative tasks, while the Library Clerk works on-site, assisting patrons directly and managing physical library materials. Both roles support library operations but differ mainly in work environment and daily responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Virtual Library Assistant jobs in Columbia, SC?

For Virtual Library Assistant jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Virtual Library Assistant jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Virtual Library Assistant jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Virtual Library Assistant jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Virtual Library Assistant job openings:

Student Success Librarian

COLUMBIA COLLEGE

Columbia, SC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY
The Division of Integrated Learning Services at Columbia College invites applications for the Student Success Librarian position beginning September 2026 or earliest available date. The Student Success Librarian will advance the Division of Integrated Learning Services (ILS) by developing strategic outreach and academic engagement to support the library, career services, accessibility services, and the academic advising team, while promoting partnerships across Columbia College. The Student Success Librarian will provide support for ILS by working collaboratively in assessing, planning, and promoting all student success services to undergraduate, graduate, and online students at Columbia College. The Student Success Librarian will provide support services in the library by managing the electronic resources, providing instruction on electronic resources and other materials to increase students' and faculty knowledge on services provided by the ILS division. The ideal candidate will be able to multi-task, have an interest in working with students, and feel comfortable building partnerships across Columbia College.
The position reports to the Dean of Library, Learning, & Student Success while working collaboratively with other members of the ILS and Learning Commons faculty and staff. Participation in evening and weekend shifts is required, as needed. This position is a twelve-month full-time faculty appointment.
The candidate is expected to have flexibility scheduling to meet the needs of the College. Faculty members are expected to participate in faculty governance and academic program activities, and to engage in service as well as scholarship and professional development.
Columbia College is a liberal arts college that is committed to creating a learning community that values diversity and inclusion. We seek candidates who will be innovative in teaching, leadership, and research while building collaborative relationships in the college and profession.
Columbia College offers a competitive benefits package.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Library Electronic Services Management (45%)

  • Manage the Library's electronic and print collections in collaboration with librarians and faculty to ensure alignment with Columbia College's academic programs and support services.
  • Manage the purchasing and renewal process for electronic resources including collection development of print and electronic books.
  • Manage the cataloging of library materials in collaboration with ILS Coordinator and the Library Assistant.
  • Provide instruction and consultation to undergraduate, graduate, and online students, faculty, and staff on the use of electronic resources and library materials.
  • Collaborate with the Educational Technology Librarian and Columbia College Instructional Designer in developing learning materials for using electronic resources, library materials, and other student support services materials for in-person and virtual learners.
  • Provide in-person and virtual reference services to students, faculty, and staff.
  • Manage all aspects of the Partnership Among South Carolina Academic Libraries (PASCAL) shared library services platform (currently Alma/Primo VE).
  • Maintain strong working relationships with PASCAL staff and colleagues in the consortium.
  • Monitor information from PASCAL, participate in webinars and other educational activities, and share with library faculty/staff of important information.
  • Maintains all assessments for statistical reporting, such as ACRL, and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) with particular attention to assessing outcomes for undergraduate and graduate students understanding of how to effectively search for reliable sources.
  • Apply data, assessment, and user feedback to evaluate effectiveness of library collections for both print and electronic resources, services, and programs.
  • Serve as the contact for troubleshooting and reporting issues related to managing authentication and linkage with discovery tools, such as Primo VE and Open Athens.
  • Develop policies and procedures relevant to electronic resources use; maintain current knowledge of licensing agreements.
  • Collaborate with the library staff and student success in designing, building, maintaining, and updating the library's web presence on LibGuides and assist with social media.
  • Perform other library duties as assigned and needed, such as, administrative support and account management for SpringShare applications including LibGuides, LibAnswers, LibCal, and LibWizard and leadership for weeding and deaccession materials.
  • Participate in answering all reference questions.
  • Work with library staff in monitoring online chat.
  • Rotate as needed at the reference desk and evening services.

Student Support: (40%)
  • Partner and collaborate with accessibility services, academic services, career services, and library services to develop and strengthen working relationships to promote a synchronized focus on all aspects of undergraduate, graduate, and online student success.
  • Serves as the liaison in connecting and promoting library resources throughout ILS.
  • Collaborate with student success involvement with orientation by coordinating opportunities for ILS areas to share services and resources.
  • Apply data, assessment, and user feedback to evaluate effectiveness of student success, including career services, accessibility, and academic advising.
  • Engage in professional learning and research related to best practices for ILS to support undergraduate, graduate, and online students' awareness of all services.
  • Work with the Dean of Library, Learning, & Student Success to evaluate the overall impact of an integrated division in providing services and support for all students.
  • Work with the Dean of Library, Learning, & Student Success in sharing the ILS model in higher education.
  • Work with the Dean of Library, Learning, & Student Success to identify funding resources to expand ILS.
  • Participate in community life and activities of Columbia College, including student events.
  • Support student success in designing, building, and maintaining a web presence on social media.
  • Perform other duties as required to support career services, accessibility services, and academic advising.

Additional Responsibilities: (10%)
  • Assist with supporting and creating online activities when applicable.
  • Serve on campus committees and task forces as assigned.
  • Engage in learning more about student support services.
  • Engage in professional development through various means, such as:
    • Attending and presenting at local, state and/or regional conferences, workshops, webinars, etc. as budget permits.
    • Staying current on professional literature and webinars.
    • Conducting research for program development and presenting results.

Other (5%):
  • Assist with Accessibility Services as needed, such as helping with testing students.
  • Performs other duties as assigned, within the general scope of the position description.
  • Participates in community life and activities of Columbia College.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO PERFORM WORK:
  • Master's Degree from an American Library Association (ALA) accredited master's program (MLS/MLIS).
  • Minimum of one year of overseeing and providing instruction on using electronic resources in academic libraries.
  • Minimum of 1-2 years of professional experience in an academic library.
  • Knowledge of current practices and pedagogy for electronic resources delivery and management.
  • Knowledge of or interest in current practices and emerging trends in student success, including outreach, student engagement, and belonging.
  • Ability to develop collegial relationships with colleagues, administrators, staff, faculty, and students across campus.
  • Enthusiasm for learning how to provide integrated support services for all students at Columbia College.
  • Enthusiasm for the learning culture of liberal arts institutions and for the mission of Columbia College.
  • Demonstrated experience providing collaborative leadership.
  • Demonstrated experience using best pedagogical practices for active learning preferred.
  • Evidence of effective organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Excellent interpersonal, oral, written, collaboration, and presentation skills for communicating in multiple formats with a wide range of constituencies required.
  • Competence with business math and written and verbal communication suitable in a business or professional setting.
  • Skill in the use of Microsoft Office Suite, utilizing Outlook, Word, Excel and Microsoft Teams, or related software.

MLIS/MLS is required for this position. All required documents must be completed for the application to be reviewed. Columbia College is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
  • Ability to learn innovative technology.
  • Ability to work independently with little direction.
  • Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize work.
  • Ability to meet schedules and timelines.
  • Ability to understand and follow oral and written directions.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Requires sedentary work that involves walking, standing, lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling some of the time and involves exerting up to 10 pounds of force on a recurring basis or routine keyboard operations.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work environment risks exposure to no known environmental hazards.
Applications
To apply, a candidate must submit the following materials through the online submission portal (all in one pdf file except for the cover letter, which may be uploaded as a separate document):
  • A cover letter describing teaching interests/experiences.
  • An up-to-date curriculum vitae
  • A teaching statement that includes teaching philosophy and methodology
  • A statement regarding research and other scholarly endeavors
  • Names and contact information for three references, and
  • Copies of graduate transcripts. Unofficial copies of transcripts will suffice for the initial application stage.

Review of completed applications will begin July 2026 and continue until the position is filled.
Inquiries may be directed to Dean of Library, Learning & Student Success, Dr. Monika Rhue, at mrhue@columbiasc.edu.
About Columbia College
Columbia College was founded in 1854 as Columbia Female College by the Methodist Conference of South Carolina. Today, Columbia College offers a personalized liberal arts education that is open and inclusive to all. The College provides educational opportunities that develop students' capacity for critical thought and expression, lifelong learning, and acceptance of personal responsibility.
Columbia College empowers students to change the world with Courage for Innovation, Commitment to Social Justice, Confidence through Service, and Competence in Leadership. In furtherance of its mission, the College is responsive to the needs of students, the communities to which it belongs, and the greater global society.
Columbia College encompasses the historic undergraduate day college as well as evening, online, and graduate programs. Total enrollment is approximately 1850. The College is noted for faculty who foster academic excellence through collaborative teaching and learning; a vital learning community in which character, ethics, and values are cultivated; the study of leadership enhanced by opportunities for practical application; programs that capitalize on advances in technology; and learning environments that extend beyond the classroom.
EOE M/F/D/V