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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

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 ...

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 ...

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 1, 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 are Virtual Reference Librarians?

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.

Part-Time Librarian

Macomb Community College

Clinton Township, MI • On-site

$34.46 - $45.62/hr

Part-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : Campus - To be determined by department, MI
Job Type: Part-Time
Job Number: 202301261
Department: Learning Resources and Library
Division: Library
Opening Date: 07/24/2026
Closing Date: 8/2/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Bargaining Unit: PT
Salary Range: $34.46-$45.62 per hour
Position Level: NA
Supervision: Reports to the Dean of Learning Resources
Job Function
Reference and Instructional Services
Job Responsibilities
An opportunity to join a premier community college as a part time Librarian in our Learning Resources and Libraries area. Primary responsibilities will be to:
• offer in-person, telephone, and virtual reference assistance to students, faculty, staff, and community members
• provide assistance and troubleshooting for basic computer and software issues
• teach introductory library information literacy and research skills to classes
• develop online subject guides and teaching aids to support the curriculum
• participate in collection development and collection maintenance projects
Assignment to South Campus or Center Campus Library Reference Desk, depending upon candidate availability as to hours and/or location. Standing, sitting, and movement between floors, depending upon the frequency and nature of on-site user requests.
Education
Master's degree in Library Science
OR
Equivalent American Library Association (ALA) accredited degree is required.
Qualifications
Experience providing customer service in an academic, secondary school, public library setting is required. Teaching experience in a secondary school or college setting is preferred.
This position is not eligible for benefits.

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