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Virtual Reference Librarian Jobs in Massachusetts

Apply and evolve our standardized approach to symbol sizing, footprint conventions, reference ... virtual care and employee assistance resources. * Meaningful time off to rest and recharge: 23 days ...

Supervisor, Access Services

Babson Park, MA · On-site

$30.96 - $34.40/hr

OverviewThe Supervisor, Access Services oversees daily operations at the Horn Library Information ... Wellbeing programs, virtual fitness platform, and employee assistance program. All questions or ...

C++ Tutor

Waltham, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... references, templates, Standard Template Library, inheritance and polymorphism, exception handling, file I/O, and multithreading. Ability to explain dynamic memory allocation, virtual functions ...

C++ Tutor

Somerville, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... references, templates, Standard Template Library, inheritance and polymorphism, exception handling, file I/O, and multithreading. Ability to explain dynamic memory allocation, virtual functions ...

C++ Tutor

Quincy, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... references, templates, Standard Template Library, inheritance and polymorphism, exception handling, file I/O, and multithreading. Ability to explain dynamic memory allocation, virtual functions ...

C++ Tutor

Lawrence, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... references, templates, Standard Template Library, inheritance and polymorphism, exception handling, file I/O, and multithreading. Ability to explain dynamic memory allocation, virtual functions ...

C++ Tutor

Lynn, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... references, templates, Standard Template Library, inheritance and polymorphism, exception handling, file I/O, and multithreading. Ability to explain dynamic memory allocation, virtual functions ...

C++ Tutor

Lowell, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... references, templates, Standard Template Library, inheritance and polymorphism, exception handling, file I/O, and multithreading. Ability to explain dynamic memory allocation, virtual functions ...

C++ Tutor

Newton, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... references, templates, Standard Template Library, inheritance and polymorphism, exception handling, file I/O, and multithreading. Ability to explain dynamic memory allocation, virtual functions ...

C++ Tutor

Northampton, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... references, templates, Standard Template Library, inheritance and polymorphism, exception handling, file I/O, and multithreading. Ability to explain dynamic memory allocation, virtual functions ...

C++ Tutor

Boston, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... references, templates, Standard Template Library, inheritance and polymorphism, exception handling, file I/O, and multithreading. Ability to explain dynamic memory allocation, virtual functions ...

C++ Tutor

Cambridge, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... references, templates, Standard Template Library, inheritance and polymorphism, exception handling, file I/O, and multithreading. Ability to explain dynamic memory allocation, virtual functions ...

Virtual Reference Librarian information

See Massachusetts salary details

$28.4K

$67.8K

$109.8K

How much do virtual reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for virtual reference librarian in Massachusetts is $67,773.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,100.00 and $79,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a virtual reference librarian?

Virtual Reference Librarians are information professionals who assist patrons remotely, typically through online chat, email, video calls, or other digital platforms. They help users locate information, answer research questions, and provide guidance on using library resources without requiring in-person visits. Virtual Reference Librarians play a crucial role in making library services accessible to a broader audience, including those who may not be able to visit the library physically. Their expertise ensures that users receive timely and accurate information regardless of their location.

What does a virtual reference librarian do?

As a virtual reference librarian, you work at a library searching online references on a digital database to help recommend specific items or collections to patrons. You research answers to their questions, respond to telephone calls or emails, and use video chat to communicate and follow up with patrons. Other responsibilities may include creating new reference collections, determining which services to offer at the library, and taking on additional duties as necessary. Occasionally, you may determine whether or not people have the right to access certain information and restrict information as required by local or state legislation.

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

To thrive as a Virtual Reference Librarian, you need expertise in information retrieval, research methods, and a degree in library or information science. Familiarity with digital library platforms, online databases, virtual reference software, and cataloging systems is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and customer service skills help create positive user experiences in an online environment. These skills are vital for efficiently connecting patrons with accurate information and resources in a virtual setting.

How does a virtual reference librarian typically collaborate with faculty and students in an online academic environment?

A Virtual Reference Librarian frequently partners with faculty to support curriculum development by providing resource recommendations, creating research guides, and offering virtual instruction sessions. They also work closely with students through online chat, email, and video consultations to assist with research strategies, citation guidance, and database navigation. Collaboration often involves participating in virtual workshops and integrating library resources into learning management systems, ensuring that both faculty and students have seamless access to library support regardless of location.

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

AspectVirtual Reference LibrarianReference Librarian
CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS)Master's degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS)
Work EnvironmentOnline platforms, remote workPhysical libraries, on-site or hybrid
Employer & IndustryPublic, academic, or special libraries offering virtual servicesPublic, academic, or special libraries with physical locations
Search & Comparison IntentOnline research, digital reference servicesIn-person reference assistance, physical resource management

The Virtual Reference Librarian primarily provides online research assistance through digital platforms, working remotely. In contrast, the Reference Librarian typically offers in-person reference services within physical library spaces. Both roles require similar credentials but differ mainly in work environment and service delivery methods.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Virtual Reference Librarian jobs in Massachusetts?

For Virtual Reference Librarian jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Virtual Reference Librarian jobs in Massachusetts look for?

The top searched job categories for Virtual Reference Librarian jobs in Massachusetts are:

What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Virtual Reference Librarian jobs?

Cities in Massachusetts with the most Virtual Reference Librarian job openings:

Infographic showing various Virtual Reference Librarian job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 52% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 46% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,773 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Research and Learning Services Librarian

Holyoke Community College

Holyoke, MA • On-site

$36.55/hr

Part-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

About Holyoke Community College: Holyoke Community College is housed on a multi-million-dollar, 135-acre campus, equipped with state-of-the art technology in specialized learning facilities. HCC serves over 9,000 students annually, and provides a variety of recreational and cultural activities, from sports programs to music festivals, for students and community members alike. The college's strongest assets continue to be an innovative spirit, a sincere concern for students and a commitment to strive for even greater success.

These are the values which have created a tradition of excellence spanning more than six decades, and which are enabling Holyoke Community College to meet today's challenges. Mission: Educate. Inspire.

Connect. Values: Kindness, Inclusion, Trust, Innovation & Collaboration Kindness, inclusion and trust are the foundation of the work that we do together. Innovation and collaboration enable us to explore and implement the ideas that will shape our future.

The Research and Learning Services Librarian is a part-time professional librarian position responsible for providing research assistance, reference services, library instruction, outreach, and engagement activities that support student learning and academic success. The position works collaboratively with students, faculty, staff, and community users to connect learners with library resources, services, technologies, and learning opportunities. Reporting directly to the Dean of Library Services, the Research and Learning Services Librarian collaborates with library faculty and staff to deliver responsive, student-centered services and contributes to assessment, planning, and continuous improvement efforts that advance the mission and goals of the Library and the College.

This is a part-time, annually renewable position scheduled to work up to 18.5 hours per week during the academic year. The position is expected to work approximately 32 weeks per year, generally coinciding with the fall and spring semesters. Continued appointment is contingent upon institutional needs, available funding, and satisfactory performance

Public Services and Research Support Provides research assistance, reference services, referrals, and general library support to students, faculty, staff, and community users through in-person and virtual interactions. Serves as the primary librarian for reference and public services during assigned hours and contributes to the effective operation of library service points. Assists users in identifying, accessing, evaluating, and effectively using library resources, technologies, and services.

Collaborates with library staff and student employees to provide responsive, student-centered service. Maintains current knowledge of library resources, services, technologies, and policies to support user needs. Instruction and Student Learning Plans and delivers library instruction sessions, workshops, and other learning activities that support information literacy, research skills, and student success.

Collaborates with faculty, librarians, and campus partners to support instruction, student learning, and research success initiatives. Develops instructional materials, research guides, tutorials, and other learning resources. Contributes to the assessment and continuous improvement of instructional services and learning activities.

Outreach and Engagement Participates in outreach, engagement, and programming efforts that connect students with library resources, services, and learning opportunities. Supports initiatives that promote awareness and use of library collections, services, spaces, and technologies. Collaborates with librarians, faculty, staff, and campus partners to advance student engagement and success.

Professional Contributions and Library Operations Participates in assessment, planning, and continuous improvement activities that support the mission and goals of the Library and the College. Attends library and college meetings, trainings, and professional development activities as appropriate. Contributes to special projects, strategic initiatives, and other library activities as assigned.

Maintains awareness of trends, developments, and emerging practices in academic librarianship and higher education. Performs other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications: Master's degree in Library Science; One year experience providing reference and research assistance; One year experience providing library instructional sessions.

Equivalency Statement: We welcome and encourage applicants who do not meet the qualifications as stated above, to put in writing precisely how their background and experience have prepared them for the responsibilities of this position. It is preferred that this document be uploaded separately from the resume, cover letter, and references. Preferred Qualifications: One year or more experience with Archives Management Part-Time, Non-Benefited Position (MCCC Position) Hourly Rate: $36.55 Hours: 18.5 hours/week Funding Source: State Disability Accommodations: Holyoke Community College is committed to the full inclusion of individuals with disabilities and will ensure the availability of reasonable accommodations

If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact the Office of People and Talent at (413) 552-2554. Background Check: Employment is contingent upon the successful completion and review of a background check which will include CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) and SORI (Sex Offender Registry Information). All candidates must have legal authorization to work in the United States.

HCC is not sponsoring H1B Visa. Holyoke Community College is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, age, veteran status, genetic information, gender identity or sexual orientation in its programs and activities as required by Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and other applicable statutes and college policies. The College prohibits sexual harassment, including sexual violence.

Inquiries or complaints concerning discrimination, harassment, retaliation or sexual violence shall be referred to the College's Affirmative Action and/or Title IX Coordinator, the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination, the Equal Employment Opportunities Commission or the United States Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights.