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Virtual Reference Librarian Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

C++ Tutor

Detroit, MI · 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 ...

Varsity Tutors

C++ Tutor

Ann Arbor, MI · 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 ...

Varsity Tutors

C++ Tutor

Kalamazoo, MI · 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 ...

All JobsReference Librarian JobsVirtual Reference Librarian JobsVirtual Reference Librarian Jobs in Michigan

Virtual Reference Librarian information

See Michigan salary details

$22.7K

$54.1K

$87.6K

How much do virtual reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for virtual reference librarian in Michigan is $54,088.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,100.00 and $63,200.00 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 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 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.

More about Virtual Reference Librarian jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Reference Librarian jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Reference Librarian jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Virtual Reference Librarian jobs in Michigan? For Virtual Reference Librarian jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Virtual Reference Librarian jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Virtual Reference Librarian jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Virtual Reference Librarian jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Virtual Reference Librarian job openings:
Virtual Reference Librarian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Virtual Reference Librarian job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,088 per year, or $26 per hour.

Research Librarian and 508 Compliance

asrcfh

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Other

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Agile Decision Sciences (ADS,) a subsidiary of ASRC Federal, is seeking a Reference and Research Librarian to support our nationwide contract providing library and records management services to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  We offer a culture that provides professional development and team collaboration. 

Responsibilities:

  • Deliver in-depth reference and research support services to EPA researchers and staff, including daily provision of virtual reference services and interlibrary loan.
  • Contribute to other library programs and services including research impact, library instruction, marketing and outreach, knowledge management projects, or cataloging.
  • Participate in the development of innovative library services (research impact analysis, data visualization, systematic reviews, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and other potential new areas of service).
  • Complete reporting duties, departmental statistics, and documentation as required by the contract and library operating procedures.

Requirements:

  • MS in Library Science, Information Science, or related field.
  • Minimum 2-4 years of professional experience in a library which includes three (3) years of providing reference and research services.  Candidates should have experience  in scientific research settings; prefer experience with special libraries and/or federal government special library experience.
  • Experience with commonly used research tools and databases in those fields (PubMed, Web of Science, D&B Finance Analytics, etc.).
  • Experience with Alma, EndNote, and other library tools and skills (scholarly publishing, programming, SharePoint management, data visualization, collection management, etc.).
  • Experience formatting documents and checking for 508 compliance.
  • Customer service skills and strong organizational skills with attention to detail as well as the ability to work independently and on teams, communicate effectively with colleagues and customers, prioritize and manage multiple on-going projects, quickly adapt to change, and meet deadlines.
  • Ability to pass a government background investigation which requires Permanent Residency or US Citizenship.

Apply