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Collection Development Librarian Jobs in Chicago, IL

TCS Education System

University Librarian

Chicago, IL · On-site

The University Librarian holds overall responsibility for library operations including collection development and management (to include physical collections and assessment test kits); library ...

ArentFox Schiff LLP

Research Librarian

Chicago, IL · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

... Development, New Business/Conflicts, secretarial, paralegal and Managing Attorney Office ... data collection/input to facilitate integration of subject-specific resources into larger firm ...

ArentFox Schiff LLP

Research Librarian

Chicago, IL · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

... Development, New Business/Conflicts, secretarial, paralegal and Managing Attorney Office ... data collection/input to facilitate integration of subject-specific resources into larger firm ...

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All JobsCollection Development Librarian JobsCollection Development Librarian Jobs in Chicago, IL

Collection Development Librarian information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$43.8K

$70K

$97.4K

How much do collection development librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for collection development librarian in Chicago, IL is $70,044.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,800.00 and $79,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a collection development librarian?

The role of a collection development librarian is to manage, update, and develop collections of books (both print and digital), digital media, and the reference database at a library. As a collection development librarian, you handle the selection, purchase, and tracking of new materials and keep documents on all cataloging details. Your responsibilities include collaborating with staff members, managing a budget, and making recommendations on new resources. Other duties include researching statistics and reporting national trends, technologies, and best practices for data sharing, especially electronic sources. You may also assist the public with finding books or media and teach patrons how to use databases and digital resources. Some positions require managing other employees to ensure they catalog resources properly.

What does a collection development librarian do?

A Collection Development Librarian is responsible for selecting, acquiring, and managing library materials to meet the needs of the library's users. They analyze usage data, review feedback, and stay current with trends to ensure the collection is relevant and diverse. Their duties may also include budgeting for new materials, weeding outdated resources, and collaborating with other librarians and stakeholders. Ultimately, they help shape the library’s offerings to align with institutional goals and community interests.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a collection development librarian?

To thrive as a Collection Development Librarian, you need expertise in collection analysis, knowledge of publishing trends, and a master's degree in library science (MLS/MLIS). Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), collection management software, and usage data analysis tools is commonly required. Strong negotiation, analytical thinking, and communication skills help in vendor relations and meeting diverse community needs. These abilities ensure the library's collections remain relevant, balanced, and responsive to users' evolving interests.

How does a collection development librarian collaborate with other library staff and stakeholders to ensure the collection meets community needs?

Collection Development Librarians work closely with reference librarians, subject specialists, and user groups to assess current collection strengths and gaps. They often participate in regular meetings to gather input on patron needs, review usage statistics, and discuss potential acquisitions. Additionally, they may conduct surveys or community outreach to align collection priorities with evolving interests. This collaborative approach ensures the library’s collection remains relevant, balanced, and responsive to its users.

What is the difference between Collection Development Librarian vs Technical Services Librarian?

AspectCollection Development LibrarianTechnical Services Librarian
Primary FocusSelecting and acquiring library materialsProcessing, cataloging, and maintaining library resources
Required CredentialsMaster's in Library Science (MLS) or equivalentMaster's in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special librariesPublic, academic, or special libraries
Key SkillsCollection analysis, vendor negotiation, knowledge of resourcesCataloging, classification, metadata management

The Collection Development Librarian focuses on selecting and acquiring library materials to meet user needs, while the Technical Services Librarian handles processing, cataloging, and maintaining those resources. Both roles require a Master's in Library Science and often work in similar environments, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

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Collection Development Librarian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Collection Development Librarian job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 76% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,989 per year, or $33.6 per hour.

Part-Time Librarian

City Colleges of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$23.37/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

City Colleges Of Chicago rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

233rd of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

LIBRARIAN - PART-TIME
HARRY S TRUMAN COLLEGE
The Library of Harry S Truman College, one of the City Colleges of Chicago, seeks an innovative, collaborative, customer service-oriented, technologically astute part-time librarian to provide professional services to students, faculty, and staff. This position is responsible for delivering a full range of services, including reference assistance, library and information literacy instruction, and collection development.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Staffs the reference desk, and assists all library users in identifying and locating electronic and print materials, and solving research problems.
  • Provides information literacy instruction to students, faculty and staff in formats suitable to class, group, operational, or individual needs.
  • Must have familiarity with Internet sources and the ability to search online databases.
  • Collaborates with staff and faculty in order to select new resources for the library collection, working within the approved collection development guidelines.
  • Supports the acquisition, cataloging, and circulation of library materials.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Master's degree in Library Science is required.
  • Must be self-directed, innovative and able to assess current operations in an effort to develop practical action programs to improve the functioning of the department.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills required with the ability to effectively interact with personnel at all levels (both inside and outside of the organization).
  • Must be able to work well within a culturally diverse environment with the ability to handle all situations with tact and diplomacy.
  • Must be flexible, innovative and possess excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.

Starting Salary: $23.37/hr. The rate paid is in accordance with City Colleges approved salary scale.
Benefits information is found at https://www.ccc.edu/departments/Benefits/
WORK SCHEDULE:
May require a mix of evening and daytime shifts. Schedule is determined every semester.
City Colleges is an affirmative action equal opportunity employer.
Thank you for your interest in employment with CCC.

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