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Library Associate Jobs in Elmhurst, IL (NOW HIRING)

City of Chicago

LIBRARY ASSOCIATE - HOURLY

Chicago, IL · On-site

$32.30/hr

LIBRARY ASSOCIATE - HOURLY Job Number: 418889-1 Description BID/JOB ANNOUNCEMENT LIBRARY ASSOCIATE - HOURLY (MULTIPLE VACANCIES SYSTEMWIDE) CHICAGO PUBLIC LIBRARY Library Operations & Patron ...

City of Chicago

LIBRARY ASSOCIATE - HOURLY

Chicago, IL · On-site

$32.30/hr

BID/JOB ANNOUNCEMENT LIBRARY ASSOCIATE - HOURLY (MULTIPLE VACANCIES SYSTEMWIDE) CHICAGO PUBLIC LIBRARY Library Operations & Patron Experiences Number of Positions: Multiple (Additional vacancies ...

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How much do library associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for library associate in Elmhurst, IL is $20.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $23.94 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.

Can I work as a librarian without a degree?

Library Associate positions typically require a relevant degree, such as a bachelor's in library science or a related field, although some entry-level roles may accept relevant experience or certifications. Most librarian roles, especially those involving professional responsibilities, require a master's degree in library science or information studies. Certification or specialized training can also enhance job prospects but generally do not replace the need for formal education for librarian positions.

How much do library assistants make?

In North Carolina, library assistants typically earn an average hourly wage of around $10 to $14, depending on experience and location. Salaries can vary based on the library's size, budget, and whether the position is part-time or full-time, with some roles offering additional benefits or opportunities for advancement.

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 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.

Is it hard to get hired as a librarian?

Getting hired as a librarian can be competitive, often requiring a master's degree in library science and relevant experience. Strong organizational skills, familiarity with library management systems, and certification can improve job prospects.

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 do you need to be a library associate?

To become a library associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong organizational and customer service skills, and familiarity with library systems and technology. Some positions may require previous experience in libraries or related environments. Certification is not usually mandatory but can be beneficial for advancement.
What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Elmhurst, IL? The most popular types of Library jobs in Elmhurst, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Associate jobs in Elmhurst, IL? For Library Associate jobs in Elmhurst, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Associate jobs in Elmhurst, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Library Associate jobs in Elmhurst, IL are:
What cities near Elmhurst, IL are hiring for Library Associate jobs? Cities near Elmhurst, IL with the most Library Associate job openings:
Library Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Associate job openings in Elmhurst, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,495 per year, or $20.4 per hour.
LIBRARY ASSOCIATE - HOURLY

LIBRARY ASSOCIATE - HOURLY

City of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$32.30/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

LIBRARY ASSOCIATE - HOURLY Job Number: 418889-1
Description

BID/JOB ANNOUNCEMENT

LIBRARY ASSOCIATE - HOURLY (MULTIPLE VACANCIES SYSTEMWIDE)

CHICAGO PUBLIC LIBRARY

Library Operations & Patron Experiences

Number of Positions: Multiple

(Additional vacancies possible pending budget approval)

Starting Salary: $32.30/Hourly

This position is open to the public and all current City employees covered under the City's collective bargaining agreement with AMERICAN FEDERATION OF STATE, COUNTY, AND MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES (AFSCME) - BARGAINING UNIT 1, 3, 4 & 5. Only employees in City job titles in this bargaining unit are eligible to bid.

BID INSTRUCTIONS: Apply on the bid site: https://chicago.taleo.net/careersection/103/jobsearch.ftl?lang=en AND

1. Check the box on your profile titled "Currently employed by the City of Chicago"

2. Enter your employee ID (located on your pay stub labeled 'payee/employee number')

3. Select your correct bargaining unit

FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS WILL RESULT IN A REJECTED BID APPLICATION

Applications for this position will be accepted until 11:59pm CDT on 7/31/2026

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Assists library patrons in using facility resources (e.g., the catalog of library materials, indexes and reference materials).

Assists in developing and administering library programs and services (e.g., adult book discussion, library orientation, bibliographic instruction, children's programs). Performs collection maintenance activities including shelving and purging of library materials. Assists in ordering and cataloging of books and materials. Assists in arranging library displays and exhibits to publicize facility services. Conducts research on bibliographic data using library databases and the Internet. Conducts library orientation and bibliographic instruction through the use of printed materials and electronic resources. Prepares documentation and information about library activities (e.g., records, reports, promotional flyers, bulletin boards). Assists at the circulation desk as needed (e.g., charging for library materials, maintaining inventory of supplies, processing interlibrary loans, reserves, and holds). Promotes library programs and services (e.g. visiting area schools and community organizations)

LOCATION: Various (District's 1-5)

DAYS OFF: Two days off per week

SHIFT: Will be required to work some evenings and weekends

HOURS: 80 hours per month to be scheduled during normal unit hours

THIS POSITION IS IN THE CAREER SERVICE

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree.

Disclaimer - "Accredited" means any nationally or regionally accredited college, university, or law school where the applicant is enrolled in or has completed an Associates, Bachelors, Masters, or Juris Doctorate degree program.

NOTE: To be considered for this position you must provide information about your educational background and your work experience. You must include job titles, dates of employment and specific job duties. (IF you are a current City employee, Acting Up cannot be considered). If you fail to provide this information at the time you submit your application, it will be incomplete, and you will not be considered for this position. There are three ways to provide the information: 1) you may attach a resume; 2) you may paste a resume; or 3) you can complete the online resume fields.

Educational & Employment Verification:

Please be advised that if you are selected to be hired you must provide, upon request, adequate information regarding your educational and employment history as it relates to the qualifications of the position for which you are applying. If you received your degree internationally, all international transcripts/diploma must be accompanied by a Foreign Credential Evaluation. If the City of Chicago cannot verify this information, any offer extended to you will be withdrawn and you will not be hired.

SELECTION REQUIREMENTS

This position requires applicants to complete an interview. The interviewed candidate(s) possessing the qualifications best suited to fulfill the responsibilities of the position will be selected.

Selected Bidders will be hired in seniority order according to the collective bargaining agreement.

Preference will be given to candidates possessing the following:

* Experience working or volunteering in a library

* Bookstore/retail/customer service experience

* Previous experience in education, social work or related fields

* Ability to work with diverse patronage, including children, teens and adults

* Coursework in pursuit of a MLIS or MSLIS

For Information on our employees benefits please visit our benefits website at:
https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/fin/benefits-office.html
For Information on our salary and title structure visit our classifications website at:
https://www.chicago.gov/content/dam/city/depts/dhr/supp_info/JobClassification/2025_Classification_and_Pay_Plan.pdf
APPLICATION EVALUATION: Initial evaluation will be based on information provided on the application and the documents submitted. Department of Human Resource staff will review applications after the final posting date. Staff will follow any and all required Employment/Hiring Plan provisions, federal, state and local laws, and Collective Bargaining Agreements when applicable. Staff will apply hiring preferences as required by the municipal code. Placement on an eligibility list is not an offer or guarantee of an interview nor employment with the City of Chicago.


COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY: To further our commitment to hiring applicants with diverse experience the City of Chicago has adopted the following ordinances 2-74-020 and 2-74-075. The ordinances provide a preference to applicants who meet minimum qualifications and who are veterans of the Armed Forces, and/or residents of Socio-Economically Disadvantaged Areas (SEDA) and/or Chicago Public School (CPS) high school graduates to be referred to departments for consideration. These hiring preferences do not apply to bidders, as Collective Bargaining Agreements define the hiring process for bidders. For positions covered by a collective bargaining agreement, bidders will be considered before external candidates. To learn more about our hiring practices click here.

ALL REFERENCES TO POLITICAL SPONSORSHIP OR RECOMMENDATION MUST BE OMITTED FROM ALL APPLICATION MATERIALS SUBMITTED FOR CITY EMPLOYMENT


The City of Chicago is an Equal Employment Opportunity, Military Friendly, and Fair Chance Employer


City of Chicago
Brandon Johnson, Mayor

Job Posting: Jul 17, 2026, 5:00:00 AM |
Closing Date (Period for Applying) - External
: Aug 1, 2026, 4:59:00 AM
BU: 05 | Salary: $32.30/hourly Pay Basis:Yearly

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