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Virtual Reference Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Carnegie Library

Librarian-Children's

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$24/hr

Knowledge of media mentorship practices, current technologies, electronic resources and virtual ... reference and readers advisory using print and electronic resources; * Providing high quality ...

Prince William County, VA

Librarian, Part-Time

VA · On-site

$33.80 - $47.65/hr

Collection maintenance of adult and reference materials, including weeding and rebalancing of ... Proficiency with the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams) and virtual meeting ...

usahs

Assistant Librarian

San Marcos, CA

Provide research and reference support under the guidance of a Librarian or Associate Librarian. * Assist with online chat, email, and virtual reference services as assigned. * Support a welcoming ...

Tennessee Board of Regents

Librarian

Nashville, TN · On-site

$48K - $60K/yr

Librarian POSITION SUMMARY This position coordinates electronic resources and cataloging ... Instruction, both class, virtual, and reference desk is expected. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS/JOB ...

The Tennessee Board of Regents

Librarian

Nashville, TN · On-site

$48K - $60K/yr

Librarian POSITION SUMMARY This position coordinates electronic resources and cataloging ... Instruction, both class, virtual, and reference desk is expected. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS/JOB ...

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$100.5K

How much do virtual reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for virtual reference librarian in the United States is $62,056.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $72,500.00 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 cities are hiring for Virtual Reference Librarian jobs? Cities with the most Virtual Reference Librarian job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Reference Librarian jobs? The most popular types of Reference Librarian jobs are:
What states have the most Virtual Reference Librarian jobs? States with the most job openings for Virtual Reference Librarian jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Virtual Reference Librarian jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Virtual Reference Librarian jobs are:
Virtual Reference Librarian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Virtual Reference Librarian job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,056 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Librarian-Children's

Carnegie Library

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Librarian-Children's, FT
How to apply: Submit a resume and cover letter with application by June 16, 2026
Job Summary: At Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh we believe in the richness of diversity and we build community, enable learning, provide access and value people. Our vision is that through Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh the people of our region will develop the literacies and connections that support individual achievement and strengthen the power of the community.
CLP - Hill District's Children's Librarian helps create a continuum of service to inspire and facilitate lifelong learning by supporting the developmental needs of children 0-11 as well as their parents and caregivers. Our Children's Librarian acts as a mentor and connects children and families to resources and opportunities to reflect their interests, respond to their needs and support their healthy growth and development. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated a passion for community engagement, experience working collaboratively, and a passion for serving children and families.
Location: CLP-Hill District, Pittsburgh, PA
Work Hours: 37.5 hours per week; days, evenings and weekends required.
Compensation: $24.00 per hour
Number of Vacancies: 1
Hiring Supervisor: Sharlene Dominick-Library Services Manager
Unit: This position is represented by the United Steelworkers union.
Education and Physical Requirements:
  • MLS or MLIS from an ALA accredited school;
  • Valid PA Driver's license and reliable transportation required;

Skills, Knowledge, Abilities & Experience:
  • Previous experience working with children is required;
  • Previous experience planning and presenting programs for children ages birth to 11 years preferred;
  • Outgoing, dynamic and highly organized individual with a passion for working with children and families and building relationships in the community;
  • Possesses strong leadership skills; ability to work independently and as part of a team to manage assignments and responsibilities effectively in a busy urban library with a diverse public and staff;
  • Demonstrated knowledge and an innovative vision of library services to children and families, especially in regards to equity, diversity and inclusion;
  • Understanding of child development and the ability to apply this knowledge to create developmentally appropriate library experiences;
  • Understanding of the importance of family engagement and ability to apply best practices in family engagement;
  • Knowledge of media mentorship practices, current technologies, electronic resources and virtual services including social media;
  • Familiarity with collection development and ability to recognize current reading, viewing, and listening interests of children and families;
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team to manage assignments and responsibilities effectively in a busy urban library with a diverse public and staff;
  • Commitment to providing high quality customer service in accordance with CLP's Philosophy of Service;
  • Excellent communication skills; written and oral;

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
  • Working closely with the Library Services Manager, Library Services Supervisor and youth-serving staff to execute the vision of Children's Services at CLP-Hill District;
  • Working to develop, implement, evaluate, and promote programs that reduce inequitable outcomes for children; including programs in the library, at outreach locations like local schools and non-traditional settings to meet community needs;
  • Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with individuals and agencies serving children and families;
  • Working to develop rapport with library customers and helping to fulfill their informational and recreational needs by providing quality reference and readers advisory using print and electronic resources;
  • Providing high quality customer service to all customers in accordance with CLP's Philosophy and Standards of Service;
  • Participating in system-wide initiatives, programs, committee work and project management;
  • Implementing and facilitating the priorities identified in conjunction with the Coordinator of Children's Services & Family Engagement and CLP-Homewood's Library Services Manager;
  • Communicating with, collaborating with and supporting children and family-serving staff at CLP-Hill District and Children's Specialists at all CLP locations;
  • Modeling best practices and empowering all location staff to connect with and serve youth to ensure a continuum of service;
  • Continuing to cultivate a timely and dynamic children's collection that is representative of the community's needs in consultation with the Coordinator of Children's Collections.
  • Managing the children's space, including space upkeep and inventory, creating engaging displays;
  • Providing meaningful experiences for volunteers;
  • Assisting with day-to-day operations of the branch, including circulation, registration, and shelving.

Clearance Requirements:
  • PA State Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance, FBI Fingerprint Criminal Records Check and Mandated Reporter Training upon offer of employment.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, ancestry, age, disability status, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, political affiliation or any other protected characteristic in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Pay Range: $24 per hour

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