ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Library Assistant Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLibrary Assistant JobsLibrary Assistant Jobs in Illinois

Library Assistant information

See Illinois salary details

$8

$18

$26

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Illinois is $18.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $20.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Library Assistants?

Library Assistants are support staff who help ensure the smooth operation of libraries. They assist patrons with finding materials, check books in and out, organize and shelve library items, and help maintain library records. Their duties often include answering basic questions, processing new materials, and supporting librarians in daily tasks. Library Assistants play an important role in making the library a welcoming and organized space for everyone.

What is the difference between Library Assistant vs Library Technician?

AspectLibrary AssistantLibrary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer post-secondary courseworkPost-secondary education or certification in library technology or related field
Work EnvironmentPublic, school, or academic libraries; routine tasks assisting patrons and organizing materialsMore technical tasks, cataloging, managing digital resources, supporting library systems
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in public and educational libraries; entry-level positionFound in larger libraries, academic institutions, and specialized settings; requires more technical skills

The main difference between a Library Assistant and a Library Technician lies in their responsibilities and required qualifications. Library Assistants handle routine patron service and organization tasks, often with minimal formal education. In contrast, Library Technicians perform more technical duties like cataloging and managing digital resources, requiring additional training or certification. Both roles are essential in supporting library operations, but Library Technicians typically have a higher level of technical expertise and responsibilities.

How much do librarians make?

Librarians in Connecticut typically earn an average annual salary of around $60,000, though this can vary based on experience, education, and the type of library. Salaries may be higher for those with advanced degrees or specialized skills in library management or information technology.

What are some common challenges Library Assistants face, and how can they effectively handle them?

Library Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing high volumes of patron requests, maintaining accurate organization of materials, and adapting to new library technologies. To handle these effectively, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, practice clear communication with patrons and colleagues, and stay up to date with library management systems. Regular training and seeking support from senior staff can also help Library Assistants navigate busy periods and technology updates with confidence.

What qualifications do you need for a library assistant?

Library assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include good communication, organization, and familiarity with library management software; some positions may require prior customer service experience or a background in library science or related fields.

What schooling do you need to be a library assistant?

To become a library assistant, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Some positions may prefer or require post-secondary education or coursework in library science or related fields, along with good organizational and customer service skills.

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

To thrive as a Library Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring library science coursework or experience. Familiarity with library cataloging systems, integrated library software (like Koha or Aleph), and basic computer applications is typically required. Excellent customer service, communication, and teamwork abilities help Library Assistants effectively support patrons and library staff. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient library operations, ensuring accurate resource management, and providing a welcoming environment for users.

Can you be a library assistant with no experience?

Library assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is typically provided. Basic skills such as organization, communication, and familiarity with library systems or technology can be helpful, but many entry-level roles are open to candidates without previous experience.

What Does a Library Assistant Do?

Library assistants support the head librarian in operating the library and maintaining its materials. Other responsibilities include cataloging books, movies, audio resources, reference materials, slides, and microfilm. Library assistants inspect these items regularly for damage or missing pieces, especially while they are checking out resources to library patrons. As a library assistant, you must enjoy helping visitors locate materials, as well as providing technical assistance as needed. While a library assistant job does not require education beyond a high school diploma or equivalent, job seekers pursuing a career as a librarian will need a master’s degree in library science or a related field.

More about Library Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Library jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in Illinois? For Library Assistant jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,655 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Processing Assistant at Nichols Library

Naperville Public Library

Naperville, IL • On-site

$15.50/hr

Part-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
The Processing Assistant receives and prepares materials for circulation. Maintains accuracy in database information and ensures quality control measures are followed.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Receives shipments of new materials, matching to tickets or invoices.
  • Checks material shipments for damaged or missing items.
  • Upholds the highest standards of customer service with polite, helpful, and efficient interactions with vendors, customers, and staff.
  • Processes all physical materials following established procedures and guidelines.
  • Repairs or repackages physical materials as directed.
  • Routes materials appropriately throughout Library system.
  • Creates item records in the Library's Integrated Library System (ILS), currently Sierra.
  • Verifies the bibliographic record and updates the accuracy of item and order in records in ILS.
  • Assists in maintaining ILS accuracy to ensure quality service.
  • Assists in maintaining the accuracy of documentation relating to Processing.
  • Monitors inventory of processing supplies, notifying appropriate staff for order placement.
  • Communicates regularly with manager and department to identify opportunities to contribute to the use of the collection by customers.
  • Stays current with relevant technology.
  • Attends professional development opportunities.
  • Performs other related duties and special projects as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES
  • Ability to use basic relevant computer programs such as Microsoft Office and Outlook.
  • Uses common office equipment and relevant computer software for daily tasks, communication, to record statistics, and maintain workflow.
  • Demonstrates exceptional customer service, providing quality assistance to vendors, customers, and staff.
  • Successfully collaborates on projects and programs with staff members.
  • Service-oriented with the ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with staff and the public.
  • Demonstrates strong verbal and written communication skills and interpersonal skills working effectively with diverse cultures, interpersonal styles, abilities, and backgrounds.
  • Uses problem-solving skills in determining priorities, finding timely solutions to departmental or system-wide issues.
  • Takes responsibility for consistent completion and follow-up on all tasks.
  • Responsive to change and demonstrates adaptability.
  • Maintains a positive approach while doing daily tasks and when faced with adversity.
  • Demonstrates a broader understanding of the job and looks for ways to improve Library services and support coworkers.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum three months experience, preferably in a library environment.
  • Ability to read non-English languages in our collection is desirable.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • Communicate with staff and customers in person,via email and over the phone.
  • May require either being in a stationary position or moving about for prolonged periods
  • MAnual, repetiative, fine-motor skills are required.
  • Moves equipment or library materials weighing up to 35 lbs.
  • Must have reliable means of transportation to attend meetings, conferences, and perform work in other locations.

BENEFITS
Benefits for this position include:
  • Annual Vacation Accrual: 2 weeks per year
  • Holidays: 7 days per year
  • Annual Sick Accrual: 12 days per year
  • Up to 5 Personal Days per calendar year prorated based on the hire date.
  • Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (Pension Plan)
  • 12 weeks paid parental leave
  • Training and Development opportunities

WORK SCHEDULE:
Monday 1 - 5 p.m.
Tuesday 1 - 5 p.m.
Wednesday 1 - 5 p.m.
Thursday 1 - 5 p.m.
Friday 1 - 5 p.m.
To learn more about us, go to https://www.naperville-lib.org/jobs and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion | Naperville Public Library, IL (naperville-lib.org)

Apply