Freelance Remote Library Cataloging Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salary : $66,774.00 - $108,544.00 Annually
Location : 219 S. Dearborn Street Chicago
Job Type: Part-time
Remote Employment: Remote Optional
Job Number: 2026-7
Department: Library
Opening Date: 04/13/2026
Position Overview, Position Duties and Responsibilities
Position: Technical ServicesLibrarian - Cataloger
Location: Fully Remote
No. of Vacancies: One Part-time position (24 hours per week)
Salary Range: Hourly Rate: $32.10 - $52.18 (hourly)
CL 27-01 to CL 27-61 $66,774 to $108,544 (Salary based on Chicago locality)
Upon selection, the salary will be adjusted to the candidate's location U.S. Court Guidelines
Closing Date: Priority given to applications received by May 4, 2026. Position open until filled.
Job Summary
The Library of the U.S. Courts for the Seventh Circuit includes a headquarters library in Chicago and four branch libraries located in Milwaukee, Madison, South Bend, and Indianapolis. Our organization promotes creativity and innovation, and we are looking for a candidate with these qualities. This position can be fully remote. If the successful candidate is within commuting distance of the courthouse in Chicago or Indianapolis, they may have the option of working on-site.
The Librarian works with library staff and materials across multiple locations and Circuits in the shared consortium database. The incumbent performs cataloging and related library tasks, including data entry into the Integrated Library System (ILS), currently the SirsiDynix Symphony ILS.
The Librarian performs bibliographic searching in the ILS, other local systems, and worldwide bibliographic networks. The incumbent performs copy cataloging of print and non-print materials using established standards, including LC Classification, subject headings, and RDA. The successful applicant creates and edits bibliographic, call number, and item and holding records in the database in accordance with local, consortium and national standards. The Librarian performs original cataloging in the local ILS and in OCLC. The Librarian monitors and maintains accurate bibliographic records and updates or reclassifies items as needed, following local, consortium, and national standards. The incumbent imports and uploads new records into Symphony while verifying the accuracy of the Bibload report. The Librarian maintains Symphony and OCLC records and updates them to reflect withdrawals, supersedes and other changes to ensure record continuity. The incumbent performs authority work in Symphony and initial preparation of new authority records. The successful applicant keeps current on cataloging procedures and trends and participates in team projects working with library staff.
Representative Duties:

• Performs copy cataloging of print and non-print materials.
• Performs original cataloging as needed.
• Uses appropriate cataloging rules and standards, including Library of Congress Classification, subject headings, and RDA.
• Creates and edits bibliographic, call number, item and holding records.
• Performs all other tasks assigned by the Associate Circuit Librarian or Circuit Librarian.

Job Requirements and Qualifications
Required Qualifications:

• Candidates must have an M.L.S. or its equivalent from an ALA accredited library school.
• At least 2 years of experience in cataloging.
• Demonstrated knowledge of library cataloging and terminology cataloging concepts, search protocols, OCLC Connexion, and online library systems (e.g. SirsiDynix Symphony).
• Ability to analyze, categorize, and classify information according to the Library of Congress classification system.
• Ability to construct Library of Congress call numbers and subject headings.
• Ability to apply complex cataloging rules and procedures.
• Advanced organization skills.
• Proven ability to manage competing priorities.
• Excellent computer skills, including Word, Excel, and data entry.
• Ability to pay attention to detail and follow detailed instructions.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills, both oral and written, strong interpersonal skills and a committed customer-service orientation.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an office environment.
• Occasional travel may be required.
• The required hours for this position are an 8-hour day between 8:00am-5:00pm CST or EST, 3 days a week, totaling 24 hours a week (48 hours a pay period).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous library experience.
• Experience working with SirsiDynix Symphony.
• OCLC's Connexion Client.
• Marc Edit is preferred.
• Experience in a consortia library environment.

Notice to Applicants
Application and Interview Requirement:
Applicants selected for an interview will be provided with a link to a video conference. All interviews will take place via videoconference.
Application:
Consideration will only be given to those individuals who apply through the court's online applicant tracking system and provide a resume and cover letter.
Due to the anticipated large response to this announcement, only those interviewed will be notified of the selection outcome. The court reserves the right to modify the conditions of this job announcement or to withdraw the announcement without written notice to applicants. Travel expenses for interviews cannot be reimbursed.
Please note that this position is not covered by the Fair Chance Act and requires that applicants provide criminal history information prior to receiving any conditional offer of employment. All information provided by applicants is subject to verification and background investigation. Applicants are advised that false statements or omission of information on any application materials may be grounds for non-selection, withdrawal of an offer of employment or dismissal after being employed.
Pursuant to the Immigration and Reform Act of 1986, selection is contingent upon providing proof of being legally eligible to work in and for the United States. Employees are required to use Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) for payroll deposit.
THIS OFFICE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit offers a generous benefits package to full-time, permanent employees, which includes:

• Paid leave time for federal holidays, vacation, sick, and Parental Leave
• Medical, dental, vision insurance
• Access to an infant and toddler care near the Courthouse.
• The Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program is available to full-time employees with qualifying student loans.
• Life insurance
• Thrift Savings Plan with matching funds (401k & Roth 401k style)
• Participation in Federal Employees Retirement System
• Health, dependent care, and parking reimbursement programs
• Public Transit Subsidy Program
• Onsite employee gym
• Employee Assistance Program, which provides free counseling, financial assistance, and basic legal services

Further details regarding Federal benefits may be viewed at:
01
Do you have an M.L.S. Degree or equivalent from ALA-accredited library school?

• Yes
• No

02
How many years' experience do you have working in a law library setting?

• 5 years or more
• 3-4 years
• 1-2 years
• Less than 1 year
• None

03
How many years' experience do you have with copy and original cataloging?

• 5 years or more
• 3-4 years
• 1-2 years
• Less than 1 year
• None

04
How many years' experience do you have working with Marc Edit?

• 5 years or more
• 3-4 years
• 1-2 years
• Less than 1 year
• No experience

05
How many years' experience do you have working with OCLC's Connexion Client?

• 5 years or more
• 3-4 years
• 1-2 years
• Less than 1 year
• No experience

06
How many years' experience do you have working with SirsiDynix?

• 5 years or more
• 3-4 years
• 1-2 years
• Less than 1 year
• None

07
How many years' experience do you have working with different modules of an Integrated Library System?

• 5 years or more
• 3-4 years
• 1-2 years
• Less than 1 year
• None

08
Are you able to work between the hours of 8:00am - 5:00pm CST or EST?

• Yes
• No

09
Are you able to work an 8 hour day, 3 days a week (Monday - Friday), totaling 24 hours a week?

• Yes
• No

10
Do you have any concerns that this position may require the occasional travel?
Required Question