OPT Reference Librarian Jobs
Reference Librarian roles qualify for OPT when your degree is in library science, information science, or a related field. Most positions are in universities, public libraries, and research institutions, many of which have experience sponsoring international staff and extending STEM OPT where applicable.
See All OPT Reference Librarian JobsOverview
Showing 4 of 4+ Reference Librarian jobs
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
See all Reference Librarian Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Reference Librarian roles.
Get Access To All JobsDescription:
LAC Federal is seeking a Reference Librarian to provide high-quality reference, research assistance, and instructional support to students, faculty, staff, and community patrons through online platforms and at the library service desk. In this role, the Reference Librarian will guide users in effectively navigating library resources, including the online catalog, electronic databases, and print and non-print collections.
Additionally, the Reference Librarian may be responsible for other assigned duties such as gathering and analyzing usage statistics, delivering library instruction sessions, conducting student research consultations, and performing occasional circulation desk functions. Schedule flexibility is required, as the candidate must be available for hours of operation during the spring and summer semesters, including the library’s evening hours. On rare occasions, if the building needs to close but services are still needed, the employee is expected to work remotely.
Employment Type: Part Time/16 hours per week. Length of Contract is from May 4, 2026 – June 30, 2026
Schedule: Schedule will adjust depending on semester schedule:
- May 4, 2026 – May 15, 2026
- Monday-Thursday 4:00 - 8:00pm
- May 18 - 22, 2026: Intersession – coverage not needed
- May 25, 2026: Memorial Day – coverage not needed
- May 26, 2026 - June 30, 2026
- Monday – Thursday 3:00-7:00pm
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver reference and research services to library users both in-person and virtually.
- Assist patrons in the effective use of library technologies, databases, and research tools.
- Provide individualized research support to students through consultations.
- Conduct instructional sessions for classes, faculty, and other library users to promote information literacy and enhance research skills.
- Maintain knowledge of library collections, both print and digital, to support user needs.
- Capture and report library usage statistics as directed.
- Collaborate with library staff to enhance services and contribute to special projects as assigned, such as creating and/or updating library guides and instructional resources.
- Support circulation functions as needed.
- Stay current with trends and emerging technologies related to academic library reference services.
- Participate in professional development activities to maintain and improve knowledge and skills relevant to the role.
Requirements
- Minimum of one (1) year of recent experience providing reference services in a public, research, or academic library setting; academic library experience preferred.
- Proficiency with electronic information systems, research databases, and Microsoft Office applications.
- Familiarity with technologies used in academic libraries for reference and instructional purposes.
- Strong knowledge of library practices and procedures, including reference and instructional services.
- Experience with Primo Discovery Service by Ex Libris strongly preferred.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and responsibilities in a dynamic service environment.
- Strong commitment to customer service and student success.
- Master’s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or equivalent from an ALA-accredited program preferred.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while providing reference and circulation support at a service desk and during instructional sessions.
- Frequent use of computers and digital systems, including typing, viewing screens for prolonged periods, and navigating online databases and library technologies.
- Ability to lift and move library materials (e.g., books, files, small equipment) up to approximately 15–20 pounds and perform light physical tasks such as shelving or organizing materials as needed.
Benefits
- Not Benefit Eligible
EEO Statement
The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Nothing in this job specification restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently.
Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.
Description:
LAC Federal is seeking a Reference Librarian to provide high-quality reference, research assistance, and instructional support to students, faculty, staff, and community patrons through online platforms and at the library service desk. In this role, the Reference Librarian will guide users in effectively navigating library resources, including the online catalog, electronic databases, and print and non-print collections.
Additionally, the Reference Librarian may be responsible for other assigned duties such as gathering and analyzing usage statistics, delivering library instruction sessions, conducting student research consultations, and performing occasional circulation desk functions. Schedule flexibility is required, as the candidate must be available for hours of operation during the spring and summer semesters, including the library’s evening hours. On rare occasions, if the building needs to close but services are still needed, the employee is expected to work remotely.
Employment Type: Part Time/16 hours per week. Length of Contract is from May 4, 2026 – June 30, 2026
Schedule: Schedule will adjust depending on semester schedule:
- May 4, 2026 – May 15, 2026
- Monday-Thursday 4:00 - 8:00pm
- May 18 - 22, 2026: Intersession – coverage not needed
- May 25, 2026: Memorial Day – coverage not needed
- May 26, 2026 - June 30, 2026
- Monday – Thursday 3:00-7:00pm
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver reference and research services to library users both in-person and virtually.
- Assist patrons in the effective use of library technologies, databases, and research tools.
- Provide individualized research support to students through consultations.
- Conduct instructional sessions for classes, faculty, and other library users to promote information literacy and enhance research skills.
- Maintain knowledge of library collections, both print and digital, to support user needs.
- Capture and report library usage statistics as directed.
- Collaborate with library staff to enhance services and contribute to special projects as assigned, such as creating and/or updating library guides and instructional resources.
- Support circulation functions as needed.
- Stay current with trends and emerging technologies related to academic library reference services.
- Participate in professional development activities to maintain and improve knowledge and skills relevant to the role.
Requirements
- Minimum of one (1) year of recent experience providing reference services in a public, research, or academic library setting; academic library experience preferred.
- Proficiency with electronic information systems, research databases, and Microsoft Office applications.
- Familiarity with technologies used in academic libraries for reference and instructional purposes.
- Strong knowledge of library practices and procedures, including reference and instructional services.
- Experience with Primo Discovery Service by Ex Libris strongly preferred.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and responsibilities in a dynamic service environment.
- Strong commitment to customer service and student success.
- Master’s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or equivalent from an ALA-accredited program preferred.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while providing reference and circulation support at a service desk and during instructional sessions.
- Frequent use of computers and digital systems, including typing, viewing screens for prolonged periods, and navigating online databases and library technologies.
- Ability to lift and move library materials (e.g., books, files, small equipment) up to approximately 15–20 pounds and perform light physical tasks such as shelving or organizing materials as needed.
Benefits
- Not Benefit Eligible
EEO Statement
The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Nothing in this job specification restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently.
Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.
See all OPT Reference Librarian Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Reference Librarian Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Reference Librarian
Target academic and research libraries first
Universities and research institutions hire Reference Librarians most consistently and are more familiar with OPT work authorization than smaller public libraries. Large university systems often have dedicated HR processes for international employees, making authorization conversations smoother.
Lead with your MLS or MLIS degree
Most Reference Librarian postings require an ALA-accredited Master of Library Science or Master of Library and Information Science. Naming your specific degree and accreditation status upfront removes any ambiguity about your qualifications and signals you meet the core requirement immediately.
Clarify your OPT timeline early in outreach
Reference Librarian hiring moves slowly in academic institutions. Disclose your OPT end date before the interview stage so employers can assess whether timelines align and whether H-1B visa sponsorship is realistic before investing in the process.
Highlight subject specializations that are hard to fill
Libraries actively recruit Reference Librarians with specialized knowledge in STEM, law, medicine, or business. If your academic background aligns with a high-demand subject area, emphasize it in applications to differentiate yourself and increase sponsorship motivation.
Ask about the library's history with visa sponsorship
Some public library systems have never sponsored a work visa, while university libraries do it regularly. Ask HR directly whether the institution has sponsored international employees before so you can gauge feasibility without wasting time in lengthy interview processes.
Pursue roles with continuing education or instruction duties
Reference Librarian positions that include instruction, curriculum support, or faculty liaison responsibilities are often classified as more specialized roles. This positioning strengthens both your candidacy and any future petition for H-1B status as a specialty occupation.
Reference Librarian OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Reference Librarian role qualify as a specialty occupation for OPT?
Yes, Reference Librarian positions at academic and research institutions typically qualify because the role requires a directly related degree, usually an ALA-accredited MLS or MLIS. Your OPT must be authorized in library science or information science, and the job duties must align with your field of study for the work to be valid.
Do Reference Librarian jobs qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Most Reference Librarian roles do not qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension because library science is not on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program list. However, if your degree is in an information science or data-focused program that carries a STEM CIP code, check with your DSO, as some programs qualify.
How do I find Reference Librarian employers open to OPT candidates?
Migrate Mate lists Reference Librarian openings filtered for OPT-friendly employers, saving you the work of screening postings manually. University library systems at large public and private institutions are the most reliable segment to prioritize, as they hire internationally on a recurring basis and typically have institutional knowledge of the sponsorship process.
Can I work as a Reference Librarian at a public library on OPT?
Yes, public library positions are valid OPT employment as long as the role is directly related to your degree field and you have a current, valid EAD. The practical challenge is that many municipal or county library systems have limited experience with international hiring, so expect more friction around authorization questions compared to academic institutions.
What happens if my OPT expires before a Reference Librarian employer can sponsor my H-1B?
If OPT expires before an H-1B is approved, you cannot legally continue working. Reference Librarian hiring timelines at universities can run three to six months, so starting employer conversations well before your OPT end date is critical. Some employers will file a cap-subject H-1B petition for the October 1 start date while you complete OPT work authorization.