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Ala Library Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Triton College, IL

Librarian

River Grove, IL · On-site

$27/hr

Master's degree of Library and Information Science from an ALA-approved program. Experience: Previous experience working in a library providing reference services or research support. Skills:

Addison Public Library

Adult Services Specialist

Addison, IL · On-site

$26.20 - $32.74/hr

Enrollment in an ALA-accredited library science graduate program may be considered in place of the degree requirements. * Preference will be given to qualified candidates who are bilingual in English ...

Wheaton College

Assistant Professor-Library

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$63K - $75K/yr

A master of library science or equivalent degree from an ALA-accredited program or foreign equivalent. * Ability to understand and contribute substantially to the academic lives of Wheaton's faculty ...

Wheaton College

Assistant Professor-Library

Wheaton, IL

$63K - $75K/yr

A master of library science or equivalent degree from an ALA-accredited program or foreign equivalent. * Ability to understand and contribute substantially to the academic lives of Wheaton's faculty ...

TCS Education System

University Librarian

Chicago, IL · On-site

An American Library Association (ALA) or international equivalent accredited Master's degree. * At least five years of academic library experience with evidence of progressive growth in scope of ...

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All JobsAla Library JobsAla Library Jobs in Chicago, IL

Ala Library information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.9K

$67.2K

$105.6K

How much do ala library jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for ala 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 are some typical challenges faced by library professionals working in an ALA-accredited library, and how can they be addressed?

Library professionals in ALA-accredited libraries often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly evolving technology, balancing traditional library duties with digital resource management, and meeting the diverse needs of patrons. Addressing these challenges involves ongoing professional development, collaboration with colleagues to share best practices, and staying current with trends in librarianship. Many libraries foster a supportive team environment, encouraging staff to attend workshops and engage in cross-departmental projects to continuously improve services and skills.

What is an ALA Librarian?

An ALA Librarian is a library professional who is a member of the American Library Association (ALA), the oldest and largest library association in the world. ALA Librarians work in various settings, such as public, academic, or special libraries, and are dedicated to promoting access to information, literacy, and library services. Membership in the ALA often provides librarians with networking opportunities, professional development, advocacy resources, and support for maintaining high standards in librarianship.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Library Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Assistant, you need strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring an associate’s degree or relevant library coursework. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), cataloging software, and digital research tools is often required. Exceptional customer service, communication, and teamwork skills help Library Assistants effectively support patrons and collaborate with colleagues. These skills ensure efficient library operations, positive user experiences, and accurate resource management.

What is the difference between Ala Library vs Library Technician?

AspectAla LibraryLibrary Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant certificationAssociate's degree in library technology or related field
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special librariesPublic, academic, or special libraries
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting patrons, organizing materials, managing collectionsSupporting librarians, cataloging, customer service
Industry UsageCommonly used term for library staff rolesMore specific role within library staff

Both Ala Library and Library Technician roles are integral to library operations, often requiring similar educational backgrounds and working in comparable environments. Ala Library may refer broadly to library staff or specific roles within the library system, while Library Technician is a defined position with specific responsibilities. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are popular job titles related to Ala Library jobs in Chicago, IL? For Ala Library jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ala Library jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Ala Library jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Ala Library jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Ala Library job openings:
Ala Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ala Library job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $67,158 per year, or $32.3 per hour.
Director of Communications

Director of Communications

American Library Association

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

$135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

The American Library Association (ALA) is seeking a full-time Director of Communications to lead the Association's strategic communications, media relations, public awareness, branding, and digital engagement efforts. As the nation's oldest and largest library association, ALA advances the development, promotion, and improvement of library and information services and the profession of librarianship to enhance learning and ensure access to information for all.

ALA's multi-year strategic plan focuses on strengthening libraries, growing the library workforce, advancing innovation, expanding advocacy, and increasing community impact. Developed through a data-driven and collaborative process with broad member engagement, the plan reflects the evolving needs of libraries and the communities they serve.

Reporting directly to the Executive Director and serving as a member of ALA's senior leadership team, the Director of Communications provides strategic vision and leadership for all Association communications activities. This role oversees media relations, public awareness campaigns, brand management, crisis communications, social media strategy, and internal communications while ensuring consistent messaging that advances ALA's mission, priorities, and public impact.

Responsibilities include:

Strategic Communications and Leadership

  • Develop and lead ALA's communications strategy to advance the Association's mission, strategic priorities, and public impact.
  • Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on communications, messaging, media relations, and reputation management.
  • Lead crisis communications planning and response efforts.

Brand Management and Public Awareness

  • Oversee ALA's brand, marketing, public awareness campaigns, and digital communications to ensure consistent and effective messaging.
  • Promote the value of libraries and librarianship through strategic communications initiatives and partnerships.

Media Relations and External Engagement

  • Serve as a primary spokesperson and media strategist for the Association.
  • Build and maintain relationships with media, partners, and stakeholders to enhance ALA's visibility and influence.

 Department Leadership and Collaboration

  • Lead and develop a high-performing communications team while managing departmental operations, budgets, and strategic initiatives.
  • Collaborate across ALA divisions, offices, and member groups to support organizational goals and strengthen internal and external communications.

This is a regular full-time position based in our Chicago office.

ALA staff are currently working on a hybrid schedule. Please note that although we have a generous telecommuting policy for our employees, we do not have any fully remote positions in states outside of our workplace sites.

All offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check and proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

Salary negotiable from $135k based on relevant experience. ALA offers an excellent benefits package that includes flexible work schedules, medical and dental coverage, generous paid vacation, retirement annuity, and a 35-hour work week. Employees may also qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).

Requirements:

Education and Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, Public Affairs, or a related field required.
  • Master's degree preferred.
  • Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible communications leadership experience.
  • Minimum of 5 years of staff management and supervisory experience.
  • Demonstrated success in strategic communications, media relations, branding, marketing, and public awareness campaigns.
  • Experience working in a nonprofit, association, advocacy, membership, or mission-driven organization preferred.
  • Regular travel is required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Comprehensive knowledge of contemporary communications, media relations, marketing, public relations, and digital engagement strategies.
  • Exceptional written, verbal, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Demonstrated expertise in crisis communications and reputation management.
  • Strong strategic planning, project management, budgeting, and leadership skills.
  • Experience managing social media platforms, digital communications tools, and media monitoring systems.
  • Ability to build relationships and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, volunteer leaders, staff, members, and external partners.
  • Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and social justice principles.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities simultaneously.

For Consideration:

Apply online with a cover letter and resume OR send materials to:

American Library Association
Human Resources Department
Ref: Director of Communications
Email: recruitment@ala.org

The American Library Association is an equal opportunity employer:
Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran.

Apply