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Virtual Reference Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

County of Chester

Librarian

West Chester, PA

$28.31/hr

Provide general reference and advisory services. Assist in collection development and maintenance. Plan, produce and promote library programs, presenting in-house and/or virtual programs as well as ...

County of Chester

Librarian

West Chester, PA

$28.31/hr

Provide general reference and advisory services. Assist in collection development and maintenance. Plan, produce and promote library programs, presenting in-house and/or virtual programs as well as ...

Northwell

Librarian - Medical Library

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$66K - $86K/yr

Provides reference and education services at assigned libraries via virtual as well as on-site consultations. Conducts expert literature searches to meet information needs; provides instruction in ...

County of Chester

Librarian

West Chester, PA

$28.31/hr

Provide general reference and advisory services. Assist in collection development and maintenance. Plan, produce and promote library programs, presenting in-house and/or virtual programs as well as ...

County of Chester, PA

Librarian

West Chester, PA · On-site

$28.31/hr

Provide general reference and advisory services. * Assist in collection development and maintenance. * Plan, produce and promote library programs, presenting in-house and/or virtual programs as well ...

MCPHS University

Circulation Supervisor

Boston, MA · On-site

Interpret library policies for patrons * Support Virtual Reference service Facilities (10%) * Coordinate maintenance of physical appearance of library facility * Collaborate with other Library ...

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How much do virtual reference librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 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 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 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 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.

More about Virtual Reference Librarian jobs

What cities are hiring for Virtual Reference Librarian jobs?

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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?

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For Virtual Reference Librarian jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Virtual Reference Librarian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Virtual Reference Librarian job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, and 46% Part Time. Highlights an 85% In-person, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,056 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Adjunct - Reference/Instruction Librarian

Cincinnati, OH

Cincinnati State Technical & Community College
Education Programs Administration • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Cincinnati State Technical & Community Collegeexternal

$25/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Adjunct- Reference and Instruction Librarian
This posting is part of an ongoing recruitment effort. Applications are accepted year-round, and qualified candidates will be contacted as positions become available.
The Johnnie Mae Berry Library at Cincinnati State Technical and Community College is seeking applicants for a part-time reference and instruction librarian. Our librarians help students develop skills needed for finding, evaluating, and integrating credible academic resources into their assignments. This is an onsite position located at Cincinnati State’s Main Campus in the Clifton neighborhood.
Essential Duties:
  • Provide in-person and virtual research assistance
  • Teach in-person and virtual instruction sessions
  • Create and maintain multimedia learning objects and web resources, including video tutorials and static guides.
  • Assist with collection management
  • Other duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Master's Degree in Library Science (will consider qualified candidate enrolled in an ALA-approved program within 15 credit hours of completion)
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience creating multimedia learning objects, including video and static tutorials
  • Experience with basic HTMLhtml and CSS for use in Springshare products (e.g., LibGuides) and other web resources
Desired Competencies:
  • Innovation: Seeks out and incorporates new methods and principles. Demonstrates strong technology skills and a willingness to learn new skills quickly.
  • Professionalism: Courtesy and collegiality in changing environments. Interacts respectfully. Seeks, accepts, and incorporates feedback and direction. Flexible, friendly, reliable, and able to establish rapport with faculty, staff, and students. Handles and responds to concerns, complaints, and challenging situations. Excellent oral and written communication which foster positive relationships and partnerships.
  • Project management: Effective time management, organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to balance priorities, working independently and in teams.
  • Decision-making: Demonstrated ability and confidence to exercise good judgement.
Work hours:
  • Typical work week is 20-25 hours per week, not to exceed 29 hours. Schedules are set each semester.
  • Flexibility is highly desired as the preferred candidate may be asked to work earlier or later hours depending on staffing and instruction needs.
Compensation: $25/hour
Contractual Affiliation: N/A
Exempt Classification: Non-Exempt
Status: Part time/Adjunct
Cincinnati State is an E-Verify employer:
If you're hired, you must complete a Form I-9, which verifies your identity and your legal right to work in the U.S.
You'll need to provide original, acceptable documents—no photocopies—to complete the I-9 process.
A list of acceptable documents can be seen here: USCIS I-9 website
STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT
The institution declares that it will educate students by means of free, open, and rigorous intellectual inquiry to seek the truth.
The institution declares that its duty is to equip students with the opportunity to develop the intellectual skills they need to reach their own, informed conclusions.
The institution declares its commitment to not requiring, favoring, disfavoring, or prohibiting speech or lawful assembly.
The institution declares it is committed to create a community dedicated to an ethic of civil and free inquiry, which respects the autonomy of each member, supports individual capacities for growth, and tolerates the differences in opinion that naturally occur in a public higher education community.
The institution declares that its duty is to treat all faculty, staff, and students as individuals, to hold them to equal standards, and to provide them equality of opportunity, with regard to those individuals' race, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

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