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Library Assistant Jobs in Oswego, IL (NOW HIRING)

Northwestern University

Library Assistant 2

Chicago, IL · On-site

Evening Circulation And Fulfillment Assistant The Pritzker Legal Research Center of Northwestern ... The Pritzker Legal Research Center is a highly service-oriented library. We are looking for someone ...

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Library Assistant information

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$8

$17

$26

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Oswego, IL is $17.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.10 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 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.

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.

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. Some positions may require basic computer skills and familiarity with library management software; additional certifications are not usually required but can be beneficial.

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 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.

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.

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.
More about Library Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Oswego, IL? The most popular types of Library jobs in Oswego, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Oswego, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Oswego, IL are:
What cities near Oswego, IL are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Oswego, IL with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Oswego, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,960 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Library Assistant Manager

Suburban Cook County Online Application Consortium

Lyons, IL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

LIBRARY CLERK - BARACK OBAMA LEARNING CENTER
Job Summary:
Under the supervision of the Library Manager, the Library Assistant Manager will assist in the BOLC/Phoenix Public Library and its collections and materials, performing a variety of related library, student, and community support services. 
Qualifications
  • Bachelor degree in job-related area preferred.
  • Satisfactory report from a fingerprint-based criminal history records check
  • Possession of a valid TB test
 Essential Functions
         Assists teachers, students, and administrators to identify resource materials for use in classroom and/or class assignments and programs.
         Monitors student activities for the purpose of maintaining a safe environment conducive to learning.
         Ensure library expenditure is appropriately managed.
         Prepare and present reports in line with school policy.
         Performs circulation activities (e.g. item check-in and checkout, prepare circulation count, lists of overdue items) for the purpose of controlling the use, location and availability of items in the collection.
         Processes library books, periodicals, software and media materials for the purpose of providing students and staff with required materials.
         Processes new student library cards; notices of missing, damaged, or overdue books, media and materials for the purpose of providing and/or maintaining access to library resources and securing reimbursement for loses.
-         Supports students and library patrons with use of the library services.
-         Provides on-site support for student and community services and events sponsored by the Phoenix Library District. 
-         Assists the Library Manager and the Phoenix Library Board with documentation, reports, and grant applications and administration as assigned. 
         Maintains materials inventory (e.g. library books, library hardware/software, media equipment and related instructional materials, etc.) for the purpose of providing an up-to-date reference to ensure availability when required.
         Evaluates books and/or periodicals for retention within collection.
         Responds to inquiries of students, staff, parents (e.g. availability of books, status of overdue fines, etc.) to provide information and/or direction as needed.
         Reliable, consistent attendance.
         Other duties as assigned.
Skills
  • Planning and organizing
  • Excellent oral and written communication
  • Strong technology skills
  • Ability to interact positively with students, staff, and community members
Preferred Experience
         Library management and systems
         Experience in an Elementary school library
Physical Demands 
         Occasional lifting or moving objects up to 25 pounds, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling frequent stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling and significant fine finger dexterity. 
Terms of Employment
12 month position. At-will employment. 
 

































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