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Entry Level Chicago Public Library Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Chicago

LIBRARIAN I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$67K/yr

... entry-level professional library work in a public service division or unit at the Chicago Public Library and performs related duties as required. ESSENTIAL DUTIES * Assists library patrons in using ...

City of Chicago

LIBRARIAN I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$67K/yr

... entry-level professional library work in a public service division or unit at the Chicago Public Library and performs related duties as required. ESSENTIAL DUTIES • Assists library patrons in using ...

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How much do entry level chicago public library jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level chicago public library in the United States is $64,190.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $78,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry-level positions at the Chicago Public Library?

Entry-level positions at the Chicago Public Library are jobs that typically require little to no prior professional library experience. These roles may include Library Page, Library Clerk, or Library Assistant, and often involve tasks such as shelving books, assisting patrons with finding materials, and basic administrative duties. Entry-level positions provide valuable experience and opportunities for advancement within the library system. They are ideal for individuals interested in learning more about library operations and public service.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an entry-level position at the Chicago Public Library, and why are they important?

To thrive in an entry-level position at the Chicago Public Library, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic computer literacy, and strong organizational skills. Familiarity with library catalog systems, Microsoft Office Suite, and possibly library-specific software such as Sierra or Polaris is beneficial. Excellent customer service, communication, and teamwork skills help you effectively assist patrons and collaborate with colleagues. These skills ensure efficient library operations, positive user experiences, and support the library's mission of accessible public services.

What is the difference between Entry Level Chicago Public Library vs Library Assistant?

AspectEntry Level Chicago Public LibraryLibrary Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may prefer relevant courseworkHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require additional certifications
Work EnvironmentPublic library setting, assisting patrons, organizing materialsPublic library or educational environment, supporting library operations
Employer & Industry UsageChicago Public Library system, government-fundedPublic and private libraries, educational institutions
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Chicago Public Library vs Library Assistant

Both roles involve working in a library environment, assisting patrons, and organizing materials. The main difference is that "Entry Level Chicago Public Library" refers specifically to positions within the Chicago Public Library system, often requiring familiarity with their procedures, while "Library Assistant" is a broader term used across various libraries and may have slightly varied requirements depending on the employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level staff at the Chicago Public Library, and how can they be addressed?

Entry-level staff at the Chicago Public Library often encounter challenges such as managing diverse patron needs, learning to navigate the library's cataloguing and circulation systems, and balancing multiple responsibilities like shelving, assisting visitors, and supporting library programs. Adapting to a fast-paced public service environment can take time, but new hires typically receive structured training and ongoing support from experienced colleagues. Building strong communication skills and being proactive in seeking guidance can help ease the transition and foster professional growth within the library system.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Chicago Public Library jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Chicago Public Library job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Chicago Public Library jobs? The most popular types of Chicago Public Library jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Chicago Public Library jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Chicago Public Library jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Chicago Public Library jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Chicago Public Library jobs are:
Entry Level Chicago Public Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Chicago Public Library job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,190 per year, or $30.9 per hour.
LIBRARIAN I

LIBRARIAN I

City of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$67K/yr

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

LIBRARIAN I Job Number: 416188
Description

BID/JOB ANNOUNCEMENT

Librarian I

Chicago Public Library

Library operations and Patron Experiences

Number of Positions: 13

(Additional vacancies possible pending budget approval)

Starting Salary starts at $67,284

This position is open to the public and all current City employees covered under the City's collective bargaining agreement with AMERICAN FEDERATION OF STATE, COUNTY, AND MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES (AFSCME) - BARGAINING UNIT 1, 3, 4 & 5. Only employees in City job titles in this bargaining unit are eligible to bid.

BID INSTRUCTIONS: Apply on the bid site: https://chicago.taleo.net/careersection/103/jobsearch.ftl?lang=en AND

1. Check the box on your profile titled "Currently employed by the City of Chicago"

2. Enter your employee ID (located on your pay stub labeled 'payee/employee number')

3. Select your correct bargaining unit

FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS WILL RESULT IN A REJECTED BID APPLICATION

Applications for this position will be accepted until 11:59pm CDT on 07/14/2026

Under supervision, performs entry-level professional library work in a public service division or unit at the Chicago Public Library and performs related duties as required.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

* Assists library patrons in using facility resources (e.g., catalog of library materials, indexes, reference materials)

* Assists in developing and administering library programs and services (e.g., adult book discussion, library orientation, bibliographic instruction, children's programs)

* Prepares reading lists, bibliographies and annotations for library collections

* Responds to questions and requests for information regarding library collections

* Oversees library collections and makes recommendations for the acquisition of new materials and collections

* Performs collection maintenance activities including shelving and purging of library materials

* Conducts research on bibliographic data using library databases and the Internet

* Promotes library programs, services and exhibits (e.g., designing flyers or displays, visiting area schools and community organizations)

* Compiles and maintains records and reports of library activities and inventories

* Processes interlibrary loans, reserves and holds

* Classifies and catalogs books and other library materials

* Assists in writing grants or seeking outside support for library programs

* May supervise the work of Library Associates, Library Pages and clerical staff

NOTE: The list of essential duties is not intended to be inclusive; there may be other duties that are essential to particular positions within the class.

Location: Various (Multiple vacancies system wide)

Days Off: Two days off per week

Shift: Will be required to work some evenings and weekends.

Hours: 37.5 Hours per week to be scheduled during normal business hours.

THIS POSITION IS IN THE CAREER SERVICE

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Education, Training, and Experience

Graduation from an accredited American Library Association college or university with a Master's degree in Library Science or an approved foreign credential evaluation.

Selection Criteria

This position requires applicants to complete an interview which will include assessment as part of the interview. The interviewed candidate(s) possessing the qualifications best suited to fulfill the responsibilities of the position, based on the interview process will be selected.

For information about City of Chicago employee benefits, please click here

For information about City of Chicago salaries and job titles, please click here

Application Evaluation: Initial evaluation will be based on the information provided on the application and the documents submitted. Department of Human Resources staff will review applications after the final posting date. Staff will follow all required employment/hiring plan provisions, federal, state, and local laws, and collective bargaining agreements when applicable. Staff will apply hiring preferences as required by the municipal code. Placement on an eligibility list is not an offer or guarantee of an interview nor employment with the City of Chicago

Commitment to Diversity: To further our commitment to hiring applicants with diverse experience, the City of Chicago has adopted ordinances 2-74-020 and 2-74-075. The ordinances provide a preference to applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and who are veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States, residents of Socio-Economically Disadvantaged Areas (SEDA), and/or Chicago Public School (CPS) high school graduates. These hiring preferences do not apply to bidders. For positions covered by a collective bargaining agreement, bidders will be considered before external candidates. The learn more about our hiring processes, please click here.

ALL REFERENCES TO POLITICAL SPONSORSHIP OR RECOMMENDATION MUST BE OMITTED FROM ALL APPLICATION MATERIALS SUBMITTED FOR CITY EMPLOYMENT.

The City of Chicago in an Equal Employment Opportunity, Military Friendly, and Fair Chance Employer.

City of Chicago

Brandon Johnson, Mayor

Job Posting: Jun 16, 2026, 9:27:28 AM |
Closing Date (Period for Applying) - External
: Jul 15, 2026, 4:59:00 AM
BU: 05 | Salary: $67,284 Pay Basis:Yearly

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