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Virtual Reference Librarian Jobs in Riverside, CA

Virtual Reference Librarian information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$27.1K

$64.7K

$104.8K

How much do virtual reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for virtual reference librarian in Riverside, CA is $64,741.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,600.00 and $75,600.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Reference Librarian jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Reference Librarian jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Virtual Reference Librarian jobs in Riverside, CA? For Virtual Reference Librarian jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Virtual Reference Librarian jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Virtual Reference Librarian jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Virtual Reference Librarian jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Virtual Reference Librarian job openings:
Librarian, Research and Instruction; Assistant Professor

Librarian, Research and Instruction; Assistant Professor

University of La Verne

La Verne, CA • On-site

$70K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Job Vacancy
Position Information
Functional Title
Librarian, Research and Instruction; Assistant Professor
Position Details
University Overview
Embark on an exciting journey with the University of La Verne, where your career aspirations come to life in a vibrant and welcoming environment. Established in 1891, our diverse and inclusive community is more than just a university-it's a home for passionate individuals like you.
At the University of La Verne, we embody four core values that set us apart-Ethical Reasoning, Diversity and Inclusivity, Lifelong Learning, and Civic and Community Engagement. If you're fueled by these principles and are eager to make a meaningful impact, your journey begins here.
With a rich history spanning 132 years, the University of La Verne boasts a global Leo Family of 89,000+ accomplished alumni. As the #1 private university in California for social mobility according to U.S. News and World Report 2024, and recently recognized as the 33rd Best U.S. College by the Wall Street Journal 2024, we take pride in our commitment to excellence in education.
Join us in shaping the future, where your passion meets purpose. Come be part of something extraordinary and apply today!
Diversity Statement
The University supports a diverse and inclusive environment where students recognize and benefit from the life experiences and viewpoints of other students, faculty, and staff. Diversity is an active and intentional practice that supports difference and multiplicity to expand knowledge, educate capable citizens, develop the whole person, and serve our local and global communities. Promoting and sustaining diversity is a commitment to educational quality and the creation of positive, respectful learning communities.
Job Description Summary
The University of La Verne is seeking a motivated and dedicated Assistant Professor/Research and Instruction Librarian. This is a full-time, 12 month, non-tenure track faculty position with the rank of Assistant Professor and reports to the Dean of the Library and Learning Commons. The selected candidate will contribute to the profession through professional service and scholarly activities, and will participate in faculty governance activities within the Library and University.
Library faculty at Wilson Library are expected to cultivate partnerships and actively establish networks and relationships with faculty, staff and students as well as partner with faculty to integrate the library into the curricula. Library faculty at Wilson Library support research and instruction across disciplines as needed. Additionally, library faculty are expected to maintain a current knowledge of the literature and trends in the field as they relate to research, instruction and resource services.
Key Responsibilities:
Reference and Research Support
  • Provide research assistance to students and faculty in the social and behavioral sciences, and general research support as needed.
  • Participate in the planning and delivery of team-based in-person and virtual research services, including desk reference, chat, text, email, and telephone.

Instruction
  • Provide in-person and virtual library instruction for assigned departments.
  • Develop and maintain online guides and digital learning objects to support courses and disciplinary research.
  • Collaborate with faculty to integrate library resources, research skills, and information literacy into courses across disciplines and assignments.
  • Contribute to general orientation sessions, as needed.

Collection Development
  • Contribute to building and managing a diverse and equitable collection that meets the research and curricular needs of assigned departments.
  • Maintain familiarity with publishing and research trends.
  • Participate in selecting and assessing general and interdisciplinary resources.

Outreach
  • Engage in library liaison activities with assigned academic departments.

Minimum Qualifications
American Library Association accredited Masters in Library and Information Science.
Preferred Qualifications
Undergraduate or second graduate degree in any social or behavioral sciences or related fields or experience supporting social or behavioral sciences or related fields in an academic library; basic familiarity with one or more statistical, qualitative or quantitative analysis software packages. Knowledge of public and proprietary resources for national and international data sets, data management practices, data policies, sharing and reuse, and data citation. General knowledge of current issues in scholarly communication, including open education, copyright, and technological innovation.
Benefits Summary
Applicants, please note that actual compensation is determined by several factors that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to job-related skills, depth of experience, certifications, relevant education or training, and specific work location, among others. The offered wage or salary is only one aspect of an employee's total compensation
Benefits include a comprehensive health and wellness plan, tuition remission program for employee, spouse, and dependent children, a generous contribution to the University's 403B retirement plan, and a generous time off plan.
Employment is contingent upon successful completion and clearance of a background check and employment verification.
Location
La Verne Main Campus
Physical Demands Summary
The physical demands primarily include prolonged sitting, frequent use of hands for typing and mouse work, and extended screen time, which may cause eye strain. Occasional light lifting (e.g., files or office supplies) and minimal movement are typical. Proper posture and periodic breaks are essential to mitigate discomfort or strain associated with these tasks.
Do the essential functions of this job require lifting?
Yes
If yes, list maximum weight and duration
20lbs
Describe work environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to perform.
Duties
Salary Range
Minimum:
$70,304
Maximum:
$77,624
Posting Details
Posting Number
2024-250279FA
Special Instructions to Applicants
The University of La Verne is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas at this time. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship now or in the future.
Open Date
09/18/2025
Close Date
Open Until Filled
No