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Library Assistant Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Library Assistant information

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$8

$18

$27

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Elgin, IL is $18.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $20.91 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 Elgin, IL? The most popular types of Library jobs in Elgin, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in Elgin, IL? For Library Assistant jobs in Elgin, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Elgin, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Elgin, IL are:
What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Elgin, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,412 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Circulation Assistant - Nichols Library

Naperville Public Library

Naperville, IL • On-site

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Circulation Assistant provides consistent, accurate, and timely handling of Library materials for circulation. Contributes to the general order and care of facilities and Library materials.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Performs all circulation and shelving activities for the library, including check-in and review of materials, files and maintains the Hold shelves, clears lobby and drive-thru return bins, processes and sorts new materials, prepares materials for transit, unloads and shelves book carts, updates item record status, records statistics, completes reports, assists with shifting projects and shelf reads.
  • Performs workroom opening and closing tasks following departmental procedures.
  • Prepares book drops for daily, weekend and extended closures.
  • Performs paging list fulfillment, generates Hold lists, pulls and files materials, maintains the Holds area, reviews and processes Holds, and reconciles problem items.
  • Reviews and processes LINKin and Inter Library Loan items.
  • Reviews materials, routes damaged and mislabeled items to appropriate departments, ensuring the quality of the collection; addresses non-Library returned items.
  • Supports curbside service and used materials/donations.
  • Assists with lost and found materials following guidelines.
  • Monitors, collects and returns materials to appropriate public areas ensuring an orderly environment.
  • Keeps up to date with departmental and Library communications.
  • Responds on occasion to customer requests, referring to appropriate Library staff; assists with monitoring conduct within the library, alerts PIC (Person-in-Charge) if necessary.
  • Troubleshoots and completes appropriate paperwork for workroom and material issues.
  • Collaborates on programs/projects with staff, occasionally at other locations.
  • Completes Library training and 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 computer software and common office equipment to complete tasks; keeps current in relevant technology.
  • Interacts with customers and staff courteously, skillfully and with accuracy.
  • Demonstrates strong written and verbal communication in responding to customers and staff.
  • Uses problem solving skills in determining priorities, finds timely solutions to departmental or system wide issues.
  • Service oriented with the ability to establish, support, and maintain effective relationships with staff/customers.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills; completes assignments and projects in a timely manner.
  • Takes responsibility for consistent completion and follow-up on all tasks/assignments.
  • Maintains confidentiality and professionalism in situations.
  • Responsive to change and demonstrates adaptability.
  • Maintains a positive approach in tasking and in adverse situations.
  • Demonstrates a broader understanding of the job and suggests improvement in Library services and workflow.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum two years of customer service experience.
  • Bilingual proficiency a plus.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS/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.
  • Repetitive tasking, standing, bending for extended periods of time may be possible.
  • Moves equipment or library materials weighing up to 50 lbs.
  • Must have reliable means of transportation to attend meetings, conferences, and perform work in other locations.



BENEFITS

The 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 developmental opportunities

WORK SCHEDULE:

Monday 5 - 9 p.m.

Tuesday 1 - 5 p.m.

Wednesday 9 a.m.- 1 p.m.

Thursday OFF


Friday 1 - 5 p.m.

2 Sat/mo. 1 - 5 p.m.

2 Sun/mo. 1 - 5 p.m.


To learn more about us, go tohttps://www.naperville-lib.org/jobsandDiversity, Equity & Inclusion | Naperville Public Library, IL (naperville-lib.org)

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