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Virtual Reference Library Jobs in Baltimore, MD (NOW HIRING)

... digital reference materials * Refine chatbot conversations, response flows, fallback messaging ... Support cleanup, maintenance, and optimization of content libraries, documentation repositories ...

C++ Tutor

Laurel, MD · Remote

$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

Bowie, MD · Remote

$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 ...

... 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

Baltimore, MD · Remote

$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 Library information

See Baltimore, MD salary details

$65.6K

$68.5K

$71K

How much do virtual reference library jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for virtual reference library in Baltimore, MD is $68,539.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,600.00 and $68,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 a strong background in information science, research skills, and a library science degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with online databases, digital catalog systems, and virtual communication platforms is essential for providing remote assistance. Excellent interpersonal communication, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability are key soft skills that enhance user engagement and support. These competencies ensure accurate information delivery and effective user support in a digital environment.

How does a Virtual Reference Librarian typically collaborate with other library staff and departments while working remotely?

As a Virtual Reference Librarian, collaboration with colleagues is essential and primarily takes place through digital platforms such as email, chat, and video conferencing tools. You may regularly coordinate with subject specialists, technical services, and IT staff to resolve patron inquiries, develop instructional materials, or update digital resources. Effective communication and timely information sharing are key to ensuring consistent and high-quality service to patrons. Virtual team meetings and shared project management tools help maintain alignment and foster a supportive remote work environment.

What is a Virtual Reference Library?

A Virtual Reference Library is an online collection of reference materials such as encyclopedias, dictionaries, guides, and databases that can be accessed remotely via the internet. It is designed to help users find reliable information quickly without needing to visit a physical library. Virtual Reference Libraries are commonly used by students, researchers, and the general public for research, homework, and general knowledge inquiries. Many libraries and educational institutions subscribe to these services to provide convenient, 24/7 access to authoritative resources.

What is the difference between Virtual Reference Library vs Library Technician?

AspectVirtual Reference LibraryLibrary Technician
Required CredentialsMLS or MLIS degree often preferredAssociate's degree in library technology or related field
Work EnvironmentOnline platforms, remote workPhysical library settings, on-site
Employer & Industry UsageLibraries, educational institutions, online info servicesPublic, academic, or special libraries
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in digital info servicesJob responsibilities and qualifications

Virtual Reference Library professionals primarily provide online information assistance, often working remotely, while Library Technicians work in physical library environments assisting with daily operations. Both roles support library services but differ in work setting and required credentials.

What are popular job titles related to Virtual Reference Library jobs in Baltimore, MD? For Virtual Reference Library jobs in Baltimore, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Virtual Reference Library jobs in Baltimore, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Virtual Reference Library jobs in Baltimore, MD are:
What cities near Baltimore, MD are hiring for Virtual Reference Library jobs? Cities near Baltimore, MD with the most Virtual Reference Library job openings:
Infographic showing various Virtual Reference Library job openings in Baltimore, MD as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 52% Physical, and 48% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,539 per year, or $33 per hour.
Metadata Librarian

$62.50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


University Of Maryland, Baltimore rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

210th of 529 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Description
POSITION SUMMARY:
The seeks a Metadata Librarian to develop and manage metadata that will maximize the discovery of library content, including print and digital collections. The position supports the HSHSL's adherence to best practices in metadata methods, ensuring interoperability, accuracy, and accessibility of content across bibliographic and repository systems.
As a member of the library faculty, the Metadata Librarian serves on library-wide committees and task forces and is expected to demonstrate continued scholarly and professional development. This position collaborates with faculty and staff within the HSHSL, colleagues across UMB, and partners within the University System of Maryland and Affiliated Institutions (USMAI) consortium.
Located in the Resource Development and Access (RDA) Division, this position reports to the Head of the Repository and Metadata Management Department and contributes to planning and achieving department and division's goals.
UMB and the HSHSL are deeply committed to building a community of excellence by embracing our . The HSHSL welcomes applications from all backgrounds including underrepresented minorities, persons with disabilities, sexual minority groups and other candidates invested in creating and enriching an inclusive environment through their work and interactions.
Entry level candidates are encouraged to apply.
POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Catalogs and curates content for the UMB Digital Archive and UMB Data Catalog.

  • Supports accessibility standards, including reviewing Digital Archive submissions for accessibility, communicating requirements to submitters, and coordinating or performing remediation of documents.

  • Performs original cataloging and metadata enhancement of print materials, including monographs, leisure books, and historical collections in the Ex Libris Alma/Primo system.

  • Documents and maintains metadata standards and procedures for digital collections and print cataloging, e.g. Dublin Core, MARC, RDA, AACR2, LCSH, MeSH.

  • Serves as an Alma Administrator and participates in USMAI groups related to integrated library system and discovery layer maintenance.

  • Manages the lifecycle of print materials, including transfers and withdrawals.

  • Stays current with emerging metadata standards and tools to enhance library services and projects.

  • Serves as a liaison with internal and external partners on collaborative metadata projects.

  • Leads and contributes to library-wide projects related to metadata and resource description.

  • Provides outreach and consultation to promote awareness and effective use of the department's resources, including the UMB Digital Archive, UMB Data Catalog, and library catalog.

REPORTING/WORK SCHEDULE:
This position is located within the Resource Development and Access (RDA) division and reports to the Head of Repository and Metadata Management.
UMB and HSHSL support flexible work environments and the development of a vibrant university campus community. Onsite engagement is required. This position allows for hybrid telework arrangements.
STATUS:
This is a permanent status-eligible, full-time, non-tenure track faculty position. Librarians are expected to progress successfully along the promotion and permanent status track and participate fully as members of the Library's faculty. For more information, see the University's " ".
APPLICATION PROCESS:
Review of applications begins immediately and continues until the position is filled. Best consideration will be given to completed applications received by June 7, 2026
Include the following three documents as part of the application package:
1. A curriculum vitae;
2. A cover letter that describes your interest in the position. The cover letter should also include a statement describing your experience with and commitment to UMB's core values and how your work will further UMB and the HSHSL's commitment to the core values;
3. Three references with the names, professional titles, relationships to applicant, and contact information, including email.
Online Information Session
The HSHSL is hosting virtual information sessions for interested applicants. Please consider joining one of these sessions to learn more about the position and meet the supervisor, Sarah Weirich, who will answer questions about the position.
To attend a session, please complete the to receive a Zoom link prior to the session.
Join one of HSHSL's info sessions via Zoom
  • May 27, 2026, 11 AM - 12 PM

SALARY: $62,500 minimum, commensurate with experience. Other compensation associated with this position may include a relocation allowance.
BENEFITS/TUITION REMISSION:
Generous benefits include choice of retirement, medical, and dental plans; 22 days of annual leave; 15 days of sick leave; 3 personal days and 14 holidays. Regular employees, as well as their spouses and dependent children, may receive tuition remission for most programs at many campuses of the University System of Maryland.
ENVIRONMENT:
The University of Maryland, Baltimore campus is located in downtown Baltimore, blocks from Orioles Park at Camden Yards, M&T Stadium, the Hippodrome Theater, the Baltimore Convention Center, and the Inner Harbor. The largest city in Maryland, Baltimore is vibrant and diverse with access to a variety of communities, neighborhoods, and cultural centers. Baltimore City and the surrounding metropolitan area are noted for high quality-of-life indicators offering historic parks, great neighborhoods and art collections, museums, theaters, and music venues.
The HSHSL is one of the largest health sciences libraries in the United States, both in terms of physical space and collection size. With a record of innovative services and programs, the HSHSL has been a leader both regionally and nationally in health sciences librarianship and education. The HSHSL employs 56 full-time employees, including 25 faculty librarians. Opened in 1998, the library serves as a hub for collaboration and learning on the UMB campus. Since 1983, the HSHSL has been the home of the Network of the National Library of Medicine (NNLM), Region 1 and is the current location of the NNLM Web Services Office.
The HSHSL serves the schools of dentistry, graduate studies, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and social work, and is open to other campus students including those from the school of law. The library supports approximately 6,700 students in six nationally ranked professional schools and interdisciplinary graduate studies programs. The University offers 97 doctoral, master's, baccalaureate, and certificate programs. UMB is a 65-acre research and technology complex consisting of 57 buildings, including the University of Maryland BioPark, the University of Maryland Medical Center, and the Department of Veterans Affairs Hospital. , including its mission, vision, and core values.
UMB is committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workforce and is proud to be an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, ancestry or national origin, sex, pregnancy or related conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, physical or mental disability, marital status, protected veteran's status, or any other legally protected classification.
If you anticipate needing a reasonable accommodation for a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), during any part of the employment process, please submit a .
You may also contact . Please note that only inquiries concerning an ADA request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.
The University of Maryland, Baltimore prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to the Title IX Coordinator. Read the for more information.
The University of Maryland, Baltimore does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, physical or mental disability, marital status, protected veteran's status, or age in its programs and activities. Specifically, Title IX prohibits discrimination based on sex in UMB's programs and activities.
Qualifications
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
  • Master's degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited program.

  • Knowledge of MARC and non-MARC metadata formats, standards, and schemas (e.g., Dublin Core).

  • Knowledge of authority control and metadata quality practices.

  • Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.

  • Ability to manage multiple projects independently and collaboratively.

PREFERRED:
  • Experience with digital repository platforms (e.g., DSpace).

  • Experience with metadata development and management in an academic, research, or special collections library.

  • Experience with cataloging utilities (e.g., OCLC Connexion) and integrated library systems.

  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and in a team environment.

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