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Virtual Reference Librarian Jobs in Griffith, IN

C++ Tutor

Oak Lawn, IL · 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

Valparaiso, IN · 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

Chicago, IL · 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 Griffith, IN salary details

$23.4K

$55.8K

$90.4K

How much do virtual reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for virtual reference librarian in Griffith, IN is $55,807.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,500.00 and $65,200.00 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.

What cities near Griffith, IN are hiring for Virtual Reference Librarian jobs? Cities near Griffith, IN with the most Virtual Reference Librarian job openings:
Infographic showing various Virtual Reference Librarian job openings in Griffith, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 42% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 56% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,807 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Research & Instruction Librarian, Science

Chicago State University

Chicago, IL • On-site

$71K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Posting Number
F260039P
Open Date
06/03/2026
Close Date
Faculty Rank
Assistant Professor
Title
Research & Instruction Librarian, Science
Salary
$71,000 - $75,000 Annual
Benefits
This position is eligible for health, dental, life insurance and other benefits through Chicago State University. Click here for a complete list of benefits: https://csu.edu/humanresources/benefits.htm
Is Tenured/ Tenure Track
Yes
Full-time/ Part-time
Full-time
Job Description Summary
The Chicago State University Library seeks an energetic, innovative, service-oriented individual for the position of Research & Instruction Librarian, Science. This is a 12-month, tenure-track library faculty position. Library and Information Science professionals who are interested in science librarianship and working in a user-focused, collaborative environment are encouraged to apply. The Science Librarian reports to the Chair of Library and Instruction Services. The successful candidate will be responsible for building relationships with science faculty, students, and staff to support their information needs. They will serve as departmental liaison to the Department of Biological Sciences; the Department of Computing, Information and Mathematical Sciences & Technology; and the Chemistry, Physics, and Engineering Studies Department. As a subject specialist, they will also be responsible for collection development in the natural sciences. Under the leadership of the Research and Instruction Services Coordinator, the Science Librarian will also provide general and specialized reference and instruction services as part of a collaborative and dynamic team of research and instruction librarians.
Chicago State University (CSU), founded in 1867, is the oldest public university in the Chicago Metropolitan area. CSU is the only four-year U.S. Department of Education-designated Predominantly Black Institution (PBI) in the state of Illinois. The university's four colleges are Arts and Sciences, Business, Education, and Health Sciences & Pharmacy, which collectively support a diverse and non-traditional student population that hails from 28 countries and 36 states. Located on the South Side of Chicago, Chicago State University is an oasis of green in the big city, and the campus is mass transit accessible, with a Metra stop on the edge of campus. The Gwendolyn Brooks Library has a collection of over 500,000 volumes, eighty percent of which are stored in an Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS), which has the nickname ROVER (Retrieval Online Via Electronic Robot). Electronic resources include over 40,000 eBooks, over 150 databases providing access to thousands of journal and newspaper articles, and microform and audiovisual materials. The librarians at the Gwendolyn Brooks Library actively participate in shared governance of the University and are represented by the same union as other faculty and academic support professionals.
The successful candidate will be responsible for the following:
• General and specialized research assistance, guiding library users in identifying, retrieving, and evaluating information in all formats.
• In person and virtual reference services and research consultations
• General and specialized library instruction for undergraduate and graduate classes
• Outreach and other liaison activities to support science students and faculty
• Collection development and maintenance in the natural sciences
• Other duties as assigned
The successful candidate will be an engaged member of the Library faculty who will participate in department, university, and/or professional service activities. They will also participate in research and creative activities. Some evening and occasional weekend hours may be required.
Required Education
MLS or equivalent degree from an ALA-accredited institution
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Required skills and experience:
• Work experience, significant coursework, or demonstrated awareness of natural
science disciplines
• Professional experience in reference and instruction services in an academic library
• Skills and experience to participate in an active and developing library instruction program
• Proven experience with in-person and virtual reference services; proven library instruction experience
• Demonstrated familiarity with emerging trends in reference services, library instruction, information technology, online library resources, and academic librarianship
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
• Excellent oral and written communication, interpersonal, organizational, time management, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• High degree of initiative and ability to identify and implement appropriate changes within a dynamic environment
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity and understanding of the contributions of a diverse workforce
• Strong commitment to professional development and life-long learning
• Ability to meet contractual and unit criteria for performance of primary duties, research, and service
Preferred Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications:
• Applicant currently holds or recently held a position in reference and instruction services
• A minimum of two years of professional experience in reference and instruction services
• Demonstrated experience with reference and instruction in natural science disciplines
• Knowledge and expertise using online resources to support scientific research
• Previous professional experience with collection development in natural science disciplines
• Previous professional experience with outreach and other liaison activities to natural science departments or programs
• Understanding of current and emerging trends in science librarianship
• Bachelor's degree or higher in a natural science field
• Experience working with Springshare LibApps (e.g., LibGuides, LibAnswers, LibWizard, LibInsight)
• Experience with virtual or remote library instruction
• Evidence of involvement in professional organizations relevant to the position
Special Requirements