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Library Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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How much do library associate jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for library associate in Chicago, IL is $21.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Library Associate, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring library science coursework. Familiarity with library management systems, cataloging software, and basic computer applications is usually required. Excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving skills help you effectively assist patrons and support library operations. These abilities are vital for maintaining an organized, accessible library environment and ensuring a positive user experience.

What are some common challenges Library Associates face when assisting patrons, and how can they effectively address them?

Library Associates frequently encounter challenges such as helping patrons locate specific materials, assisting with technology (like printers or public computers), and managing multiple requests during busy periods. To address these challenges effectively, it's important to develop strong communication and problem-solving skills, stay up-to-date with library catalog systems, and remain patient and resourceful when guiding patrons. Collaborating closely with librarians and other staff members also ensures that patrons receive comprehensive support and that workloads are balanced during peak times.

What are Library Associates?

Library Associates are staff members who assist with the daily operations of a library. They help patrons locate materials, check out and return books, organize resources, and may assist with library programs or events. Library Associates often provide customer service, answer basic reference questions, and support librarians in maintaining an organized and welcoming environment. Their responsibilities can vary depending on the size and type of library, but they play a vital role in ensuring smooth library operations.

What is the difference between Library Associate vs Library Technician?

AspectLibrary AssociateLibrary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer post-secondary educationAssociate degree in library technology or related field
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special libraries; customer service focusSimilar environments with more technical and cataloging responsibilities
Employer UsageCommonly employed in public and academic libraries for assisting patronsOften involved in cataloging, shelving, and technical support tasks
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between a Library Associate and a Library Technician lies in their educational requirements and technical responsibilities. Library Associates typically have a high school diploma and focus on customer service and daily library operations. In contrast, Library Technicians usually hold an associate degree and handle more technical tasks like cataloging and collection management. Both roles are vital in library settings, but Library Technicians often require more specialized training and perform more technical duties.

What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Library jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Library Associate jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Library Associate job openings:
Library Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 70% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,953 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Adult Services Associate - Naper Boulevard Library

Naperville Public Library

Naperville, IL • On-site

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Salary: $21.30/hr

POSITION SUMMARY

TheAdult Services Associateprovides reference and Readers Advisory services and technologyassistanceto Library customers. Supports staff in managing collections and conducting programs. Promotes Library resources, programs, and services.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Assistscustomers with a broad spectrum of resources, including print, electronic and digital online resources.
  • Upholds the highest standards of customer service with polite, helpful, and efficient interactions with vendors, customers, and staff.
  • Provides training and guidance to customers and staff, providing support one on one and occasionally with groups in classroom settings.
  • Usesrelevant computer software to access information, answer questions, and perform daily tasks.
  • Stays current with adult and teen literature, relevant technology, and library trends.
  • Provides reference and Readers Advisoryassistanceto customers, including topical research and material location.
  • Assistsand occasionally leads presentations of library programs.
  • Assembles and arranges displays of public information, bulletin boards, books, and other library materials.
  • May process, track, and report Interlibrary Loan (ILL)requests;may serve as contact person for ILL services.
  • Mayperiodically serve as PersonInCharge (PIC), providing support for employees, customers, and facility issues.
  • Assists Librarians with collection management following established guidelines.
  • Prepares reports and statistics for review asrequested.
  • Proactivelyparticipatesin outreach activitiesand eventswith Library partners.
  • Works with volunteers to assign and review tasks.
  • Troubleshoots and resolves minor computer hardware and software problems.
  • Attends professional development opportunities.


KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

  • Proficient in relevant computer software programs such as Microsoft Office and Outlook.
  • Strong technology skills to assist with technology classes for customers and staff training.
  • Familiar with current operating systems: Microsoft Office Suite, social networking tools, mobile platforms (iOS and Android), cloud storage (including OneDrive and Google Drive.
  • Demonstrates exceptional customer service, providing qualityassistanceto vendors, customers, and staff.
  • Ability to effectively provide referenceassistanceand instruction services.
  • Demonstrates strong verbal,writtencommunicationand interpersonalskills;working effectively with diverse cultures, interpersonal styles, abilities, and backgrounds.
  • Ability to successfully lead programs and give presentations.
  • Uses problem solving skills indeterminingpriorities, findingtimelysolutions to departmental or system-wide issues.
  • Service-oriented with the ability toestablishand maintain effective relationships with staff and the public.
  • Successfully supports and/or collaborates on projects and programs with staff members.
  • Takesresponsibility for consistent completion and follow-up on all tasks.
  • Responsive to change anddemonstratesadaptability.
  • 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

  • Bachelors degree from four-year college or university; or minimum 5 years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Bilingualproficiencya 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.
  • 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.

DETAILS


The benefits of this position at the Naperville Public Library 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 OFF

Tuesday 4:30- 9 p.m.

Wednesday 1 - 5 p.m.

Thursday 1 - 5 p.m.

3 Fri/mo. 12:30 - 5 p.m.


1 Fri/mo. 4:30 - 9 p.m.

1Weekend/mo.


Saturday 8:45 a.m. - 5 p.m.


Sunday 12:45 - 5 p.m.


* Schedules are subject to change.



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