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Federal Library Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Lake Ridge Schools

Library Clerk

Gary, IN · On-site

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

Maintain accurate budget, circulation, Federal program records and files such as the card catalog ... Maintain the library as an educational center. Ensure teachers and students make the greatest use ...

Calumet High School

Library Clerk

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Library Media Specialist Due to the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 new hires must have completed ... Maintain accurate budget, circulation, Federal program records and files such as the card catalog ...

Lake Ridge Fire Department Inc.

Library Clerk

Gary, IN · On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

Maintain accurate budget, circulation, Federal program records and files such as the card catalog ... Maintain the library as an educational center. Ensure teachers and students make the greatest use ...

Calumet High School

Library Clerk

Gary, IN · On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

Library Media Specialist Due to the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 new hires must have completed ... Maintain accurate budget, circulation, Federal program records and files such as the card catalog ...

Calumet High School

Copy Of Library Clerk

Gary, IN · On-site

Library Media Specialist Due to the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 new hires must have completed ... Maintain accurate budget, circulation, Federal program records and files such as the card catalog ...

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All JobsFederal Library JobsFederal Library Jobs in Chicago, IL

Federal Library information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$29.4K

$75.2K

$127.7K

How much do federal library jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal library in Chicago, IL is $75,184.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,700.00 and $88,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a federal library?

A Federal Library is a library that is operated or funded by a federal government agency. These libraries provide information resources and services primarily to government employees, researchers, and sometimes the public, depending on the library's mission. Federal Libraries support the work of government agencies by offering specialized collections, research support, and access to digital and physical materials. Examples include the Library of Congress, the National Library of Medicine, and the National Agricultural Library.

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

To thrive as a Federal Librarian, you need a master's degree in library science (MLS/MLIS), strong research abilities, and knowledge of information organization and retrieval. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital databases, government document management tools, and cataloging standards like MARC is typically required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and customer service skills help librarians effectively serve diverse users and collaborate with colleagues. These skills ensure accurate information access, regulatory compliance, and high-quality support for federal agency missions.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a federal library, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in federal libraries often encounter challenges such as adapting to evolving government information policies, managing large and diverse collections, and meeting the varied needs of federal employees and the public. Navigating strict security protocols and handling sensitive or classified materials may also be part of the job. Building strong communication skills, staying current with library technology, and participating in ongoing professional development can help address these challenges and ensure effective service delivery.

What is the difference between Federal Library vs Public Library?

AspectFederal LibraryPublic Library
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent, specialized knowledge of federal collectionsMLS or equivalent, focus on community services
Work EnvironmentGovernment buildings, federal agencies, specialized collectionsCommunity centers, city or town facilities, public spaces
Employer & Industry UsageFederal government agencies, national archives, military, government researchLocal government, city or county governments, community outreach
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding federal library roles, job requirements, and career pathsLearning about local library jobs, services, and community engagement

Federal libraries serve government agencies and national collections, requiring specialized credentials and working within federal institutions. Public libraries focus on serving local communities, with a broader emphasis on public access and community programs. While both roles involve library science skills, their work environments, employer types, and user focus differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Federal Library jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Federal Library jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Federal Library jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Federal Library jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Federal Library jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Federal Library job openings:

Federal Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Library job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,184 per year, or $36.1 per hour.

Federal Work Study - Library

Elgin Community College

Carol Stream, IL • On-site

$15/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

About ECC:
Elgin Community College serves over 9,000 students at every stage of their educational journeys, including university transfer programs, career and technical education, continuing education classes, and adult basic education. As a community, we pride ourselves on nurturing a welcoming campus where every person-students, staff members, faculty members, and campus visitors-feels valued. The work of each ECC employee is central to the college’s mission, and as an employer, the college fosters a positive environment through professional challenges, excellent benefits, and opportunities for recognition and camaraderie.
Work Schedule:
Monday - Saturday; Flexible
Rate of Pay/Benefits:
This is a Part-Time student worker position with the following pay rate per hour: $15.00
Benefits: Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
FLSA Status:
Non-Exempt
Grant Funded:
Yes
Job Summary:
The primary duty of this position is to assist students with library computer, printer, and copier use. The person in this position is expected to proactively offer assistance when students or staff appear to need help, as well as respond to their requests for help. The person in this position should check and fill paper levels in the printers and copiers, staples in the staplers, and tidy the print and copy areas both at the beginning/ ending of the shift and during the shift as needed.
Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Computer skills including, saving and retrieving files; basic knowledge of Excel, Word and Power Point. Basic customer service.
Desired Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Essential Duties:
1. Copier Assistance
2. Printer Assistance
3. Basic Help with D2L
4. Computer Help
5. Basic help with AccessECC
6. Assist with technology in study rooms
Other Duties:
Other duties as assigned that pertain to the job description
Physical Demands:
Light (up to 25 lbs occasionally or 10 lbs frequently)
Visual Acuity:
Close visual acuity (e.g. computer, assembly)
Work Environment:
Moderate noise
Environmental Conditions:
Typical office or administrative
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Elgin Community College does not discriminate, or tolerate discrimination, against any member of its community on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex/gender/gender identity, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state or local law in matters of admissions, employment, or in any aspect of the educational programs or activities it offers.
In addition, Elgin Community College provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities to ensure equal access and equal opportunities with regard to employment practices, educational opportunities, and programs and services. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify the College’s EEO/AA Officer. Determinations on request for a reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.

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