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Entry Level Library Assistant Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

American

Resident Librarian

Campus, IL

$55K - $70K/yr

The purpose of the resident program is to bring entry-level librarians into the profession, to ... assistants. The library's budget is about $20million. The American University Library is an active ...

University of Utah

Hourly Research Assistants

Campus, IL · On-site

$10.92 - $25.20/hr

... library on project information resources and final data collected. 11. Works with research ... Entry-Level position in the Support track. Job Code: S58211 Grade: S14 Research Assistant, II ...

University of Utah

Program Assistants

Campus, IL · On-site

$16.50/hr

... Program Assistant Career Progression Track S00 Track Level S2 - Intermediate, S1 - Entry Level ... Discounts for campus events and the campus store, as well as campus library privileges. * Staff ...

University of Utah

Program Assistants

Campus, IL

$16.50/hr

... Program Assistant Career Progression Track S00 Track Level S2 - Intermediate, S1 - Entry Level ... Discounts for campus events and the campus store, as well as campus library privileges. * Staff ...

University of Utah

Program Assistants

Campus, IL

$16.50/hr

... Program Assistant Career Progression Track S00 Track Level S2 - Intermediate, S1 - Entry Level ... Discounts for campus events and the campus store, as well as campus library privileges. * Staff ...

Ricondo & Associates, Inc.

GIS Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$62K - $88K/yr

The GIS Technician will perform entry-level professional assignments, develop and refine unique ... Manage digital library and metadata of geospatial datasets for various file types and maps. * Build ...

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All JobsEntry Level Library Assistant JobsEntry Level Library Assistant Jobs in Illinois

Entry Level Library Assistant information

See Illinois salary details

$24.2K

$46.3K

$66.4K

How much do entry level library assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level library assistant in Illinois is $46,349.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,200.00 and $50,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do you need for a library assistant?

Entry level library assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Strong organizational skills, good communication, and familiarity with library systems or computers are often preferred. Some positions may require basic customer service experience or knowledge of library cataloging tools.

How to become a library assistant with no experience?

To become an entry-level library assistant with no experience, focus on developing basic customer service and organizational skills, and consider volunteering or gaining experience in library settings. Many libraries offer on-the-job training, and having a high school diploma or equivalent is typically sufficient for entry-level positions. Familiarity with library catalog systems or computer skills can be helpful but are not always required.

Can you get a job in a library without being a librarian?

Yes, entry-level library assistant positions typically do not require a librarian certification and are often open to candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. These roles involve tasks like shelving, checking out materials, and assisting patrons, and may require basic computer skills and customer service experience.

What does an Entry Level Library Assistant do?

An Entry Level Library Assistant supports the daily operations of a library by helping patrons find materials, shelving books, checking items in and out, and maintaining the organization of collections. They may also assist with basic reference questions, prepare materials for library programs, and help with administrative tasks. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy working with the public, are detail-oriented, and have a passion for books and information management.

What is the difference between Entry Level Library Assistant vs Library Technician?

AspectEntry Level Library AssistantLibrary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalentAssociate's degree in library technology or related field
Work EnvironmentPublic and academic libraries, assisting patronsLibraries, archives, or information centers, performing technical tasks
Employer & Industry UsageCommon entry point for library support rolesMore specialized technical support within libraries
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level roles and responsibilitiesCompared for technical skills and qualifications

The main difference is that Entry Level Library Assistants typically require a high school diploma and focus on customer service and basic library tasks. Library Technicians usually need an associate's degree and handle more technical and specialized duties. Both roles are essential in library operations, but Library Technicians have a higher level of technical responsibility and education.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level library assistants, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level library assistants often face challenges such as learning to use library cataloging systems, managing multiple tasks during busy periods, and assisting patrons with diverse needs. To overcome these challenges, new assistants benefit from seeking guidance from experienced colleagues, taking advantage of on-the-job training sessions, and familiarizing themselves with library technology and procedures. Developing strong organizational and communication skills also helps in providing efficient service and maintaining a positive work environment.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Library Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with library catalog systems, basic computer applications, and circulation software is typically required. Excellent customer service, communication skills, and a helpful attitude distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure efficient library operations, positive patron experiences, and effective support for library staff and visitors.

Do libraries hire with no experience?

Entry level library assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as they provide on-the-job training. Candidates typically need good organizational skills, customer service abilities, and familiarity with basic computer tools. Having a high school diploma is usually sufficient for applying.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Library Assistant jobs in Illinois? For Entry Level Library Assistant jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Library Assistant jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Library Assistant jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Library Assistant jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Library Assistant job openings:
Entry Level Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Library Assistant job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,349 per year, or $22.3 per hour.
Resident Librarian

Resident Librarian

American

Campus, IL

$55K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University

Department:

University Library Faculty

Time Type:

Full time

FLSA Status:

Exempt

Job Description:

American University Library invites early career librarians to apply for its Resident Librarian Program. Participants will be appointed at the rank of Assistant Librarian (term faculty) with a two-year contract that is potentially renewable for oneadditionalyear dependent upon funding and performance. Two positions are available.The residency is designed to provide an immersion into academic librarianship, with an emphasis on information literacy instruction and research support and including opportunities to explore other areas of interest. Funding will be provided to support professional engagement at the national level. Through the experience and mentoringacquiredbyparticipatingin the Residency Librarian Program, individuals will be able todemonstrateskills at the professional level, will be able to develop a professional network, and will be prepared for future career opportunities.

The Residency Librarian Program is part of the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) Residency Program. American University Library is one of the four founding institutions thatestablishedthe Diversity Alliance member universities. The purpose of the resident program is to bring entry-level librarians into the profession, to engage them in professional experience and service at American University, to provide mentorship through their residency experience and in building their research and professional service agenda, and ultimately, to prepare them for a career in academic librarianship.

Responsibilities

As a member of the Research, Teaching and Learning division within AU Library, the Resident Librarians will teach information literacy classes--especially in conjunction with the Writing Studies Program--and provide generalist research and reference assistance services to a variable user population from many disciplines and backgrounds through chat and in personal research appointments. They will work with colleagues in the Research, Teaching, and Learning (RTL) Division to support the faculty and information literacy needs of the Writing Studies Program, other academic departments as requested, and research support initiatives at the University Library.Residents will learn and integratenew technologiesinto the instruction process,including addressing AI literacy,and willcontribute to collection development and collection assessment as requested. They will prepareLibGuides, onlinetutorialsand other relevant reference tools in support of the university community. As faculty members, Residents will activelyparticipatein faculty governance and service to the profession. Over the course of the academic year, some evening and weekend hours will berequired.

Requirements

  • American Library Association (ALA) accredited master's degree awarded between December2024to August 2026

  • Demonstrated potential to developexpertiseas a reference and instruction librarian (through coursework, pre-professional experience, etc.)

  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively

  • Ability to work in a collaborative environment as well as independently

  • Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion

  • Demonstrated understanding of the educational mission of a research university

Preferred Experiences

  • Public service experience

  • Experience in a research-oriented environment

Salary

$55,000 - $70,000

American University Library

American University Libraryserves the AU community through a collection of more than 1,700,000 print and electronic book titles and 180,000 media and sound recordings. Notable collections include a branch music library, a strong visual media collection, special collections and university archives, a K-12 curriculum materials center, and partner collections across campus including the Career Center, the Center for Language Exploration, Acquisition, and Research, and the Visual Resource Center. AU Libraryhasaffiliate collections at the Washington College of Law and at the Wesley Theological Seminary. The AU Library collection totals over 184,000 journal subscriptions in all subjects. TheLibraryhas15library faculty,63full-time staff and other professionals, and about 120student assistants. The library's budget is about $20million. The American University Library is an active member of the Washington Research Library Consortium (WRLC), and it holds membership in SPARC, the Patriot League LibrariesGroupand the University Libraries Group.American University Library is a Founding Member of the Association of College and Research Libraries Diversity Alliance.

American University

Chartered by Congress in 1893 andlocatedin Washington, D.C., American University is a student-centeredR-1research institution with highly ranked schools and colleges, internationally renowned faculty, and anemphasis on creating meaningful change in the world.AU'sstudents distinguish themselves by their service, leadership, and ability to rethink global and domestic challenges and opportunities. The University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, many with an international focus, to over11,300students. Its proximity to centers of technology, politics, justice, world affairs, communication, science, business, and the arts in the Washington, D.C. area enhances the learning environment.Learn more about American University atwww.american.eduand about the University Library atwww.american.edu/library

Should you have any questions, please reach out to the Search Chair,Shaunda Vasudev. Reviewof applications will beginimmediatelyand continue until the position is filled.

Benefits

AU offers a competitive benefits package.Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options.

Other Details

  • Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check.

  • Employees in staff positions at American University must deliver their services to the university from either the District of Columbia, Maryland, or Virginia, or perform work on-site at the university.

  • Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

  • American University is an E-Verify employer.

Current American University Employees

American University current employees must apply through their employee Workday account. If you are a current employee at American University, please log intoWorkdayand select the Find Jobs report which will take you to our internal career listings.

Contact Us

For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, emailtheworkline@american.edu.

American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual's genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.

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