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Virtual Reference Library Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... virtual reference services as assigned. * Support a welcoming, responsive, inclusive, and student-centered library environment. Instruction and Student Skill Development * Assist librarians with ...

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Virtual Reference Library information

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$66K

$69K

$71.5K

How much do virtual reference library jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for virtual reference library in the United States is $68,978.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $69,000.00 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.

More about Virtual Reference Library jobs
What cities are hiring for Virtual Reference Library jobs? Cities with the most Virtual Reference Library job openings:
What states have the most Virtual Reference Library jobs? States with the most job openings for Virtual Reference Library jobs include:
Infographic showing various Virtual Reference Library job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 53% Physical, and 47% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,978 per year, or $33.2 per hour.
Business Healthcare Librarian (Librarian IV)

Business Healthcare Librarian (Librarian IV)

Mayo Clinic

Rochester, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 28 days ago


Mayo Clinic rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 672 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 864 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Job Description
Are you an experienced Business or Corporate Librarian with a passion for service? Are you interested in medicine and want to help build the global future of healthcare? The Mayo Clinic Libraries are recruiting a full-time Business Healthcare Librarian (Librarian IV) to support the business, management, and governmental information needs of more than 80,000 staff across the Practice, Research, and Education shields of Mayo Clinic. Applicants must provide expert-level virtual reference services and possess broad knowledge of national and international business and governmental information resources. The Business Healthcare Librarian will serve as part of the Reference team, collaborating with other librarians across the entire Mayo Clinic organization. Experience and comfort proactively communicating with, and responding to, service requests from business leaders and senior executives is essential.
This position will address Mayo Clinic's day-to-day business information needs by answering reference questions, gathering data, and delivering concise summaries to library patrons. The incumbent will also develop relationships with Mayo Clinic's business leadership to provide timely, targeted information to support their decisions. This position requires innovative and flexible thinking and the ability to effectively serve both high-level executives and novice learners. Additional duties include collaborating with other library team members for business-focused collection development and supporting high-quality general library services. Opportunities for growth and continuing education are provided, and ongoing development of medical and business reference skills is an expected part of this role.
Applicants should submit a cover letter, resume or CV, and list of three or more professional references.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Although the new librarian may begin employment soon after acceptance of the employment offer, the start date is negotiable. Review of applications will begin immediately.
This position is a combination of remote and on-site work; individual must live within driving distance to any Mayo Clinic campus.
**Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Also, Mayo Clinic DOES NOT participate in the F-1 STEM OPT extension program.
Under minimal supervision, the Librarian IV performs professional level responsibilities encompassing library science, archival work, information management, or information technology. This position may perform work related to public services, technical services, systems, archives, or administration.
Public services responsibilities may include the provision of reference, research and educational services to faculty, staff, students, patients, and others. Technical services responsibilities may include acquisitions, collection development, cataloging, database/electronic resource access and/or serials management in support of the Mayo Clinic Library system. Archives responsibilities may include development, processing, description, digitization, and preservation of archival materials. Staff may also develop catalogs, manage accession/deaccession, and contribute expertise to the institution's strategic plan.
The Librarian IV may independently manage a work unit, a service area with one or more service points or a branch library and may supervise professional and non-professional library staff. As a managing Librarian IV, the position may involve personnel management, budgetary and financial management, library outreach, project management, external consultations, and partnership development. In comparison to the managing Librarian IV, the position may be held by a professional librarian or archivist who is widely recognized at Mayo Clinic for a specialized professional expertise which provides a valued service to others.
Regularly participates in and leads library committees or task forces. Often provides input, develops and applies library plans and policy, and makes decisions to support the Mayo Clinic Library system. May perform other tasks that support services, maintain workload, or provide coverage in the work unit or elsewhere in the Mayo Clinic Library system.
Qualifications
Master's degree from an ALA-accredited institution or equivalent archival degree. Library/archives experience, particularly work experience in a health sciences or scientific research library, institutional archive or museum, technology center, or similar environment. Requires a total of 10 years of relevant, postgraduate professional experience. For institutionally designated management or supervisory positions, at least 1 year of management or supervisory experience required. Basic level knowledge in the following areas: information services, information management, instruction and instructional design, leadership and management, archival management, evidence-based practice and research, and health information professionalism. Expert level knowledge in two or more of the following areas: information services, information management, instruction and instructional design, leadership and management, archival management, evidence-based practice and research, and health information professionalism.
Sustained record of professional association participation. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Demonstrated initiative, good judgment, flexibility, and common sense. Commitment to excellent customer service and quality improvement. Ability to work well in a team-based and self-directed work environment. Willingness to independently accomplish special projects. Commitment to and participation in relevant continuing education.
The ideal candidate will have experience providing business references (AACSB accredited institutions and larger corporations preferred) and/or demonstrated knowledge of legal, business, and governmental information resources.
Preferred Experience and/or Qualifications:
AHIP membership, a similar professional credential or certification, or an additional advanced degree in a subject area pertinent to the position. Mayo Clinic academic appointment. Mayo Clinic Academy of Educational Excellence member. Participation on a Mayo Clinic Education, Research, or Practice Division committee or task force. History of relevant scholarly publications or presentations. Participation on a community service board or committee.
About Us
Why Mayo Clinic
Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans - to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.
Benefits Highlights
  • Medical: Multiple plan options.
  • Dental: Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
  • Vision: Affordable plan with national network.
  • Pre-Tax Savings: HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
  • Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.

About the Team
Just as our reputation has spread beyond our Minnesota roots, so have our locations. Today, our employees are located at our three major campuses in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, Jacksonville, Florida, Rochester, Minnesota, and at Mayo Clinic Health System campuses throughout Midwestern communities, and at our international locations. Each Mayo Clinic location is a special place where our employees thrive in both their work and personal lives. Learn more about what each unique Mayo Clinic campus has to offer, and where your best fit is.
Equal Opportunity
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. Learn more about the "EOE is the Law". Mayo Clinic participates in E-Verify and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

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About Mayo Clinic

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Mayo Clinic is the largest integrated, not-for-profit medical group practice in the world. We're building the future, one where the best possible care is available to everyone — and more people can heal at home. Our relentless research turns into earlier diagnoses and new cures. That's how we inspire hope in those who need it most. At Mayo Clinic, experts work together to solve the most challenging unmet needs of patients. Our history of innovation dates back almost 150 years, when brothers Will and Charlie Mayo pioneered an integrated, team-based approach to medicine. Today, that trailblazing spirit drives innovations like Mayo Clinic Platform — which powers new technologies to change how care is delivered to all.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, MN, US

Year founded

1919