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Library Assistant Jobs in Lake Forest, IL (NOW HIRING)

Newberry Library

Library Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

Library Assistant DEPARTMENT: Reader Services SUMMARY: Reporting to the Reading Room Librarian for Public Service or the Reading Room Librarian for Collection Management, the Library Assistant ...

Northwestern University

Library Assistant 2

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.42 - $23.40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Law Library Salary/Grade: NEX/10 Target hiring range for this position will be between $18.42- $23 ... Assistant. Located in the heart of the Gold Coast on Northwestern's Chicago campus, the Pritzker ...

Harper College

Library Assistant - Technical

Palatine, IL · On-site

$22.10 - $24.85/hr

... library statistics, curates data, and compiles reports to support student and library user needs ... Administrative Assistant. Communicates with appropriate personnel regarding low technology ...

Harper College

Library Assistant - Technical

Palatine, IL · On-site

$22.10 - $24.85/hr

Library service experience and evidence of organizational and multi-tasking skills preferred ... Administrative Assistant. Communicates with appropriate personnel regarding low technology ...

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Library Assistant information

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How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Lake Forest, IL is $18.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $20.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a library assistant?

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 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.

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.

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 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.

Can you be a library assistant with no experience?

Library assistants typically do not need prior experience, as many employers provide on-the-job training. Basic skills such as organization, communication, and familiarity with library systems or technology can be helpful, but entry-level positions often accept applicants without previous experience.

Is it hard to be a library assistant?

Being a library assistant generally involves tasks such as organizing materials, helping patrons, and using library management software. The job requires good organizational skills, attention to detail, and customer service abilities, but it is not typically considered physically or mentally demanding. Training is often provided, and the work environment is usually quiet and structured.

What qualifications do you need for a library assistant?

Library assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some positions may require basic computer skills and familiarity with library management software; additional certifications are not usually required but can be beneficial.

What would a library assistant do?

A library assistant helps with tasks such as checking books in and out, shelving and organizing library materials, assisting patrons in locating resources, and maintaining the cleanliness and order of the library. They often use library management software and may need good customer service skills and attention to detail.
More about Library Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Lake Forest, IL?

The most popular types of Library jobs in Lake Forest, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Lake Forest, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Lake Forest, IL are:

What cities near Lake Forest, IL are hiring for Library Assistant jobs?

Cities near Lake Forest, IL with the most Library Assistant job openings:

Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Lake Forest, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,475 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Library Assistant

Newberry Library

Chicago, IL • On-site

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

TO APPLY: Interested candidates should attach a cover letter and resume/CV, both as PDF documents, to their application in the Newberry Career Center. Applications sent without both a resume and cover letter will not be considered. To be considered for this role, applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable to apply for a job on this site because of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodation by contacting us through the Jobs email link listed on the Newberry Career Center page.
ABOUT THE NEWBERRY: The Newberry collection-some 1.6 million books, 600,000 maps, and 5 million manuscript pages-is a portal to more than six centuries of human history, from the Middle Ages to the present. We connect researchers and visitors with our collection in the Newberry's reading rooms, exhibition galleries, program spaces, classrooms, and online digital resources.
Since its founding in 1887, the Newberry has remained dedicated to deepening our collective understanding of ourselves and the world around us. As individuals engage with Newberry collections and staff, they discover stories that bridge the past and present and illuminate the human condition.
The Newberry's community of discovery is driven by a shared commitment to promoting research, inspiring learning, and using inquiry across the humanities as a tool to engage critically in a vibrant democratic society.
TITLE: Library Assistant
DEPARTMENT: Reader Services
SUMMARY: Reporting to the Reading Room Librarian for Public Service or the Reading Room Librarian for Collection Management, the Library Assistant assists in the public service of the reading rooms while maintaining the security and preservation of the collections.
This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by AFSCME Council 31.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Locate, charge, and deliver materials from the closed bookstacks to readers in the reading rooms and throughout the building;
  • Reshelve returned materials;
  • Monitor use of the reading room and assist readers with the proper handling of materials;
  • Interpret and enforce Newberry Library rules of conduct and reading room policies;
  • Accurately maintain circulation database (Aeon) through routing and charging;
  • Evaluate materials for conservation treatment and route as appropriate;
  • Maintain closed and open stacks by participating in shifts and other stacks management projects;
  • Answer correspondence including reference research and copy requests;
  • Process reproduction orders using a book friendly scanner;
  • Serve as the circulation desk attendant providing orientation, direction, and assistance, including some reference help, to a wide variety of readers, as needed;
  • Sign in and assist readers with requests and digital image order submissions, as needed;
  • All other duties as assigned to meet departmental and organizational goals.
Other responsibilities may include:
  • Assist with coordination of presentations of library collection materials to classes and other groups;
  • Monitor use of library materials during presentations;
  • Interpret and enforce Newberry Library policy and regulations as they apply to collection presentations;
  • Assist with projects related to Reference collections and preparation of research guides
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required:
  • High school diploma or GED certificate required;
  • Commitment to providing high quality library services to a diverse group of students, scholars, staff, and researchers;
  • Ability to communicate with diverse library users and staff in person, by email, and by telephone;
  • Ability to work effectively with others in a team environment;
  • Ability to work quickly and accurately within a high level of activity;
  • Ability to sustain close attention to detail;
  • Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills;
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills;
Preferred:
  • Minimum of two years of college;
  • Strong interest in the humanities;
  • Previous library and/or public service work experience.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Physical strength, mobility, and endurance required for paging materials with the ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
SCHEDULE: This is a full-time, nonexempt position, working 35 hours per week, with normal hours generally from 9:00 AM-5:00 PM, Tuesday through Saturday. The incumbent will work fully onsite.
BENEFITS: For more information, please see the "What We Offer" section on the Newberry Careers page.
THE NEWBERRY LIBRARY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
For more information, please see the Newberry Careers page (https://www.newberry.org/careers)

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