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Virtual Reference Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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Virtual Reference Librarian information

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$26K

$62.1K

$100.5K

How much do virtual reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 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.

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:
Librarian, Reference & Collection Development

Librarian, Reference & Collection Development

College of the Mainland

Texas City, TX โ€ข On-site

$72K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Posting Number
AS507P
Position Title
Librarian, Reference & Collection Development
Contract Length
12 months
Class Summary
Responsible for performing various professional duties in support of library services for students, faculty and staff.
Candidates Eligible to Apply
Internal/External
Position Type
Exempt Staff
Employment Status
Full Time
Position Funding Type
Regular
Posting Detail Information
Minimum Education/Training/Experience
ALA accredited Master's Degree in Library Science.
Preferred Education/Training/Experience
Two years' experience in library reference services in a college setting.
Minimum Knowledge & Skills
- Principles and practices of library services in a variety of areas;
- Familiarity with Integrated library systems (ILS);
- Familiarity with customer service;
- Training/experience using databases, catalogs, Internet for research;
- Highly developed interpersonal and communication skills;
- Record keeping procedures;
- Prioritizing work and performing multiple tasks;
- Knowledge of word processing software.
Preferred Knowledge & Skills
- Instructing students, staff and faculty in the use of library resources;
- Experience with LibGuides and LibAnswers;
- Experience with collection development;
- Experience with promoting library services via social media;
- Experience using Integrated library systems (ILS), ALMA/PRIMO preferred;
- Preparing a variety of reports;
- Knowledge of spreadsheet and database software.
Licensing/Certification Requirements
none
Job Duties
Provides reference services for students, faculty and staff in person and online, including virtual reference such as LibAnswers.
Provides library instruction to students, faculty and staff in person and online in library instruction classes and the library web site such as LibGuides, collaborating with faulty as needed.
Coordinates the development and inventory of the library's book and eBook collections; prepares and manages the book budget; maintains and analyzes statistics on usage and align spending with need; promotes the book and eBook collection through the library site, book displays, emails and social media; solicits faculty suggestions for the collection.
Coordinates library services for Distance Education students in the course management system, collaborating with faulty as needed, surveys online students on library services and resources.
Promotes library resources to faculty, staff and students through various methods including direct outreach, event planning, contributing to the library newsletter, social media and other opportunities as they arise.
Coordinates the annual survey of user satisfaction of library services and materials.
Works with the Acquisition Library Technician.
Participates in writing and managing grants when relevant and appropriate.
Participates in professional development and continuing education activities.
Participates in library organizations and serves on college committees as appropriate.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Required to work every other Saturday (9 am - 1 pm) and occasional nights.
Physical Requirements
- Some or limited physical effort required.
- No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
- Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
Minimum Salary Range
$53,532
Mid Point Salary Range
Maximum Salary Range
$72,269
Posting Open Date
01/15/2026
Posting Close Date
Posting Will Be Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicant
Our goal at College of the Mainland is to attract a highly qualified and high-performing workforce by providing fair and equitable compensation. Each position is assigned a pay class and corresponding salary range. The midpoint is normally the highest salary at which candidates are hired.
Please NOTE: All applications must contain complete job histories, which include job title, dates of employment (month/year), name of employer, supervisor's name and phone numbers and a description of duties performed. If this information is not submitted, your application may be considered incomplete. Applications with "See attached" or "See resume" will not be accepted in lieu of a complete application. Omission of data can be the basis for disqualification; you may state "unknown" for any incomplete fields. A scanned copy of unofficial transcript(s) must be attached to the online application.
EEO Statement
College of the Mainland is an affirmative action/equal opportunity institution and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, disability or veteran status.
College of the Mainland does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the recruitment and admission of students, the recruitment and employment of faculty and staff, and the operation of its programs and activities, as specified by federal laws and regulations within Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and 1992.
Quick Link to Share for Direct Access to Posting
https://jobs.com.edu/postings/4438