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Academic Library Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Northwestern University

Library Assistant 2

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.42 - $23.40/hr

Experience in an academic library environment. Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities) * Facility using library research databases, integrated library systems such as Alma.

Northwestern University

Library Assistant 2

Evanston, IL · On-site

$18.42 - $23.40/hr

Experience in an academic library environment. Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities) * Facility using library research databases, integrated library systems such as Alma.

Wheaton College

Assistant Professor-Library

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$63K - $75K/yr

Serves as subject librarian to assigned academic disciplines. * Builds relationships with faculty and students, selects library resources, and teaches library instruction classes, * Participates in ...

Saybrook University

University Librarian

Chicago, IL · On-site

Develop and communicate a strategic vision for library and academic support services aligned with the evolving needs of medical health and behavioral health sciences education, research, and patient ...

TCS Education System

University Librarian

Chicago, IL · On-site

Develop and communicate a strategic vision for library and academic support services aligned with the evolving needs of medical health and behavioral health sciences education, research, and patient ...

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All JobsAcademic Library JobsAcademic Library Jobs in Chicago, IL

Academic Library information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.9K

$67.2K

$105.6K

How much do academic library jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for academic library in Chicago, IL is $67,158.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,100.00 and $77,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an academic library?

Academic libraries are specialized libraries located within colleges, universities, and other academic institutions. They primarily serve students, faculty, and staff by providing access to scholarly resources such as books, journals, databases, and research materials. In addition to offering traditional print collections, academic libraries often provide digital resources, research assistance, study spaces, and information literacy instruction. Their main goal is to support the educational and research needs of their academic community.

What are academic library jobs?

Academic library jobs provide administrative support and customer service to students at a college or university. In this role, you may advise students on where to research particular topics, help patrons choose study books, or assist students with accessing resources on the internet. Academic library jobs are usually faculty positions and involve staying up-to-date with new sources of information and book releases. Some roles may require additional training or expertise beyond those of a standard library to handle a university library’s old or rare books, as well as resources stored on unusual mediums like tapes. This position is often advertised under different titles, such as campus librarian or university librarian. Academic libraries typically differ from public school libraries, which tend to have fewer resources and do not usually contain rare items.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an academic librarian, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Academic Librarian, you need a master's degree in library and information science, strong research abilities, and a solid understanding of information organization. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital databases, and citation management tools is typically required. Excellent communication, instructional skills, and a collaborative mindset help librarians effectively support students and faculty. These competencies are crucial for ensuring access to resources, promoting information literacy, and facilitating academic success.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in an academic library setting?

Professionals in academic libraries often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly evolving information technologies, supporting a diverse population of students and faculty with varying research needs, and balancing multiple responsibilities like reference services, instruction, and collection management. Additionally, they may need to collaborate closely with academic departments to develop relevant resources and programs while navigating budget constraints. Effective communication, flexibility, and a commitment to ongoing professional development are key to thriving in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Academic Library vs Public Librarian?

AspectAcademic LibraryPublic Librarian
Required CredentialsMaster's in Library Science (MLS) or Library and Information Science (MLIS)Master's in Library Science (MLS) or Library and Information Science (MLIS)
Work EnvironmentUniversities, colleges, academic institutionsPublic libraries, community centers
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, academiaPublic sector, community service
Common Search & ComparisonAcademic Library vs Public Librarian

Academic librarians primarily work in educational settings, focusing on supporting students and faculty with research and academic resources. Public librarians serve the general community, providing access to information, literacy programs, and community services. While both roles require similar credentials, their work environments and target audiences differ significantly.

More about Academic Library jobs

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Academic Library jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Academic Library job openings:

Academic Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Academic Library job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,158 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Head of Library Technology and Technical Services | Lewis University

Romeoville, IL • On-site

ILLINOIS LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
Libraries and Archives • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about ILLINOIS LIBRARY ASSOCIATIONexternal

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Head of Library Technology and Technical Services | Lewis University

Posted on Aug 28, 2026

Reporting to the Director of the Library, the Head of Library Technology and Technical Services librarian is responsible for managing the library’s technology related initiatives and tools and leads the technical services operations of the library.

Responsibilities:

  • Support and promote the Library Vision, offering diverse and dynamic resources and collections to its learning community in the spirit of academic inquiry and civic engagement.
  • Responsible for coordinating the cataloging of library materials and the metadata for the library’s electronic and digital resources.
  • Oversee original cataloging and supervise technical services operations.
  • Recommend, coordinate, and administer the library’s technology and information systems, services, and e-resources, including bibliographic and serials utility systems, library subscription online databases, link resolver, resource discovery system, research guides, digital repositories and the library’s mobile applications.
  • Investigate new information systems and services and emerging technologies.
  • Serve as the lead contact for interactions with the Office of Technology.
  • Under the direction of the Library Director, and in conjunction with library staff, and the staff of other university units, assist in long-range planning of library information systems and services.
  • Under the direction of the Library Director, recommend library application software, install and configure this software on staff computers, and oversee maintenance of library staff hardware.
  • Administer and implement or modify commercial software applications to meet library specifications.
  • Serve as liaison to IT systems help desks, CARLI and other vendors.
  • Administer the library’s integrated library system (ALMA) and serve as the primary contact to perform patron loads, and update new releases of library’s integrated library system.
  • Provide technical support for the library’s presence in the university’s learning management system in conjunction with the library staff.
  • Responsible for the oversight of cataloging of electronic resources for the library.
  • Administer and coordinate the library’s digital collection initiatives and coordinate the university’s digital repositories including the University Archives and other special collections.
  • Coordinate and maintain technical support for library’s internet presence.
  • Compile and analyze online library resource statistics.
  • Under the direction of the Library Director, assist in the creation and implementation of library policies, procedures and workflow documentation.
  • Attend professional workshops relevant to library matters, as well as any library vendor workshops and meetings.
  • Participate in local, state, and national professional organizations when appropriate.
  • Participate in collection management, research service activities and outreach endeavors as needed.
  • Prepare and conduct library instruction sessions for staff and the Lewis community as needed.
  • Participate in collection management, liaison and research service activities and outreach endeavors as needed.
  • Prepare and conduct library instruction sessions for staff and the Lewis community as needed.
  • Work evenings and weekends as needed.
  • Assist in special projects and/or activities.
  • Other duties as assigned by the director.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • An MLS / MLIS master degree with five or more years of experience managing an integrated library system.
  • Experience in an academic library setting with growing responsibility and supervisory duties.
  • Five years of academic library experience.
  • Working knowledge of online databases, link resolver, finding tools and library resource discovery systems required.
  • Working knowledge of cataloging practices and metadata formats such as; AACRII , RDA , MARC , Dublin Core, etc. is required.
  • Computer application knowledge and experience, a demonstrated high level of proficiency in various computer operating systems, the MSOffice suite, assessment tools, etc.
  • Able to research emerging technologies for deployment of library services.
  • Excellent oral/written communication skills are necessary. Must be able to take initiative and see projects through independently.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Ability to demonstrate flexibility to adapt to new technologies and change.
  • Experience with ALMA/Ex Libris integrated library system.
  • Second language

$56,375 - $65,974

Location

Lewis University
Library
1 University Parkway
Romeoville, IL 60446
United States

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