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Collection Development Librarian Jobs in Chicago, IL

Sidley

Library & Research Services Analyst

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$70K - $110K/yr

The Library & Research Services Analyst will provide high-quality, in-depth legal and non-legal ... Advise on collection development including new databases, websites and print material. * Keep up to ...

Chicago Botanic Garden

Library Assistant

Glencoe, IL · On-site

$18 - $21.15/hr

... growth, personal development, and provide the flexibility needed to balance personal and ... Maintain Stacks and Storage locations by shelving books, shelf reading, and edging collection

Chicago Botanic Garden

Library Assistant

Glencoe, IL · On-site

... growth, personal development, and provide the flexibility needed to balance personal and ... Maintain Stacks and Storage locations by shelving books, shelf reading, and edging collection

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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

$97.3K

How much do collection development librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for collection development librarian in Chicago, IL is $69,989.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,700.00 and $79,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Collection Development Librarian, and why are they important?

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.

What Is the Role of 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.

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.

More about Collection Development Librarian jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Collection Development Librarian jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Collection Development Librarian jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Collection Development Librarian jobs in Chicago, IL? For Collection Development Librarian jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Collection Development Librarian jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Collection Development Librarian jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Collection Development Librarian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Collection Development Librarian job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,989 per year, or $33.6 per hour.

Part Time Youth Services Specialist

Job Openings - New Lenox Public Library District

New Lenox, IL

$18.64 - $23.30/hr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Provides reference and readers advisory services specializing in children's literature and pop culture while promoting media literacy.

  • Presents programming to children ages birth through eighth grade and their families.

  • Participates in collection development, maintenance, and displays per manager guidance.

Job description

Job Openings >> Part Time Youth Services Specialist
Part Time Youth Services Specialist
Summary
Title: Part Time Youth Services Specialist ID: 1029 Location: New Lenox, IL Department: Youth Services Salary Range: $18.64 - $23.30
More about this job >
Description
The New Lenox Public Library is looking for a friendly, collaborative, and enthusiastic self-starter to join our Library team. This part-time Youth Services Specialist role will provide service to children and their families, caregivers, and educators through reference interactions, readers' advisory, programming, and more. If you love working with kids and learning new things, sing "Baby Shark" in your sleep, and enjoy giving great book recommendations to get kids excited about reading, this position is for you!


QUALIFICATIONS

  • Associates degree from accredited institution or LTA certificate or relevant experience
  • Public library experience working with patrons of all ages preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Strong organizational skills
  • Familiarity with both fiction and non-fiction literature for youth
  • Knowledge of digital services offered
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Interacts directly with the public and staff to provide friendly, high-quality customer service
  • Public service desk time accounts for approximately 50 percent of scheduled hours
  • Provides reference and readers advisory services specializing in children's literature and pop culture while promoting media literacy
  • Participates in collection development, maintenance, and displays per manager guidance
  • Presents programming to children ages birth through eighth grade and their families
  • Attends outreach events as needed
  • Organizes and maintains the department's supplies and storage closets and re-orders materials as needed

REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL EMPLOYEES

  • Ensures that library spaces are a clean, safe, and welcoming space for all patrons
  • Demonstrates creativity, initiative, and ability to work independently to achieve personal, department, library focused goals
  • Comfortable with technology, which may include e-readers, ILS systems, databases, Canva and Google/Microsoft Suites
  • Supports Library-wide initiatives, programming and outreach
  • Participates in continuing education and training, including bi-annual Staff Days
  • Maintains an atmosphere conducive to connecting, creating, and exploring
  • Supports onboarding experience for new staff members
  • Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with Staff and Patrons
  • Keeps up to date with best practices by researching and attending workshops, trainings and relevant Continued Education opportunities
  • Displays high level of confidentiality in regards to sensitive information
  • Cross trains in all departments of the Library to serve as a backup for Library Staff
  • Access to transportation and ability to travel
  • Performs other duties as assigned

WHAT WE OFFER

  • Salary Range: $18.64 - $23.30 per hour (midpoint); internal equity is used in determining the rate of pay
  • Paid vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays
  • Additional paid leave time accrued at a rate of 1 hour per 40 hours worked
  • Participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF)
  • Tuition assistance program
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
This part-time, non-exempt position is scheduled for 20 hours per week and includes working Tuesday & Thursday evenings and alternating Saturdays. The selected candidate will report to the Youth Services Manager.
The New Lenox Public Library District enhances the quality of life in our community by fostering lifelong discovery, education, and opportunity. The library serves a population of approximately 41,000 residents. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Apply Now
 
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