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Library Associate Jobs in Gary, IN (NOW HIRING)

LIBRARIAN I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$67K/yr

... Library Associates, Library Pages and clerical staff NOTE: The list of essential duties is not intended to be inclusive; there may be other duties that are essential to particular positions within ...

Branch Clerk

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$14.42/hr

Non-Exempt, Salary & Hourly POSITION PURPOSE Provide library service to the public. POSITION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to ...

Branch Clerk

Griffith, IN · On-site

$14.42/hr

Non-Exempt, Salary & Hourly POSITION PURPOSE Provide library service to the public. POSITION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to ...

Branch Clerk

Griffith, IN · On-site

$14.42/hr

Non-Exempt, Salary & Hourly POSITION PURPOSE Provide library service to the public. POSITION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to ...

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Library Associate information

See Gary, IN salary details

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How much do library associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for library associate in Gary, IN is $20.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 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.

Is AI replacing librarians?

AI is not replacing library associates, but it is increasingly used to assist with tasks such as cataloging, data management, and providing information. Librarians and library associates continue to play a vital role in customer service, research assistance, and managing library resources, often using digital tools to enhance their work.

Can I work as a librarian without a degree?

Typically, a librarian position requires a master's degree in library science or information studies. However, some library support roles or paraprofessional positions may be available with a high school diploma or associate's degree, often requiring relevant skills and certifications. Requirements vary by library type and location.

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 jobs pay $400 an hour?

Jobs that pay $400 an hour are typically highly specialized roles such as experienced consultants, senior legal or financial advisors, specialized medical professionals, or top-tier executive positions. These roles often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and certifications, and they may involve freelance or contract work with flexible schedules.

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 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 working 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 Gary, IN? The most popular types of Library jobs in Gary, IN are:
What job categories do people searching Library Associate jobs in Gary, IN look for? The top searched job categories for Library Associate jobs in Gary, IN are:
What cities near Gary, IN are hiring for Library Associate jobs? Cities near Gary, IN with the most Library Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Associate job openings in Gary, IN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,458 per year, or $20.4 per hour.
Senior Library Specialist - University Library

Senior Library Specialist - University Library

University of Illinois

Chicago, IL • On-site

$31.20 - $33.11/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Senior Library Specialist - University Library
Hiring Department: University Library
Location: Chicago, IL USA
Requisition ID: 1041679
FTE: 1
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:30AM - 4:30PM
Shift: Days
# of Positions: 1
Workplace Type: Hybrid
Posting Close Date: July 6, 2026
Salary Range (commensurate with experience): $31.20 - 33.11 / Hourly Wage
About the University of Illinois Chicago
UIC is among the nation's preeminent urban public research universities, a Carnegie RU/VH research institution, and the largest university in Chicago. UIC serves over 34,000 students, comprising one of the most diverse student bodies in the nation and is designated as a Minority Serving Institution (MSI), an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPSI) and a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). Through its 16 colleges, UIC produces nationally and internationally recognized multidisciplinary academic programs in concert with civic, corporate and community partners worldwide, including a full complement of health sciences colleges. By emphasizing cutting-edge and transformational research along with a commitment to the success of all students, UIC embodies the dynamic, vibrant and engaged urban university. Recent "Best Colleges" rankings published by U.S. News & World Report, found UIC climbed up in its rankings among top public schools in the nation and among all national universities. UIC has nearly 260,000 alumni, and is one of the largest employers in the city of Chicago.
This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
The Senior Library Specialist (SLS) serves as a resource for complex acquisitions and cataloging functions, including electronic monographs and serials. Responsibilities include ordering and payment processing, copy cataloging using various metadata standards and classification schemes, identifying and correcting cataloging problems in the global (OCLC) database, providing access, and performing local record maintenance. The Senior Library Specialist responds to inquiries from Daley and LHS library staff, provides training and consultation, and independently researches and resolves complex bibliographic and acquisitions problems.
Duties & Responsibilities:
Acquisition Functions
  • Perform pre-order searching of electronic orders for bibliographic verification prior to regular and highly complex ordering and receipt of monographic and serial electronic resources.
  • Input, update, and maintain highly complex electronic and foreign acquisitions data in Library databases, as well as simple routine domestic acquisitions data. Activate links to make electronic resources available to users.
  • Assist with managing the workflow of ordering, renewing, and payment for resources, foreign and complex domestic orders, including the creation of purchase orders and invoices for acquisitions within the library acquisitions system.
  • Assist with the annual renewal of electronic serials with EBSCO and works with selectors to coordinate timely, accurate placement of orders.
  • Analyze and respond to complex queries internally as well as with foreign and domestic vendors, and delegate questions to staff as appropriate.
  • Analyze status reports from vendors for foreign and domestic orders.
  • Identify new titles, title changes, titles without order records for renewals or processing.

Cataloging and Database Maintenance Functions
  • Create brief bibliographic records for electronic resources for eventual overlay in record loads.
  • Make complex adaptations to bibliographic data available in the OCLC database to create local records for all formats, including materials in foreign languages.
  • Verify bibliographic accuracy of Shelf Ready titles that have been imported into the local database. Identify, correct and update problem records.
  • Search the authority files of OCLC for subject, name and series titles verification.
  • Interpret and apply metadata standards, including Machine Readable Cataloging (MARC) codes, OCLC Bibliographic
  • Formats and Standards, Resource Description and Access (RDA), and the Anglo-American Cataloging Rules (AACR).
  • Monitor electronic resources listserv and troubleshooting queries.
  • Perform other complex related duties and participates in special projects as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications Required:
1. High school diploma or equivalent.
2. Any combination totaling two (2) years (24 months) from the following categories:
A. work experience in a library or equivalent setting.
B. college course work in any field as measured by the following conversion table:
  • 30 semester hours equals one (1) year (12 months)
  • Associate's Degree (60 semester hours) equals eighteen months (18 months)
  • 90 semester hours equals two (2) years (24 months)
  • Bachelor's Degree (120 semester hours) equals three (3) years (36 months)

3. A total of two (2) years (24 months) work experience in a library or equivalent setting performing progressively more responsible work consistent with the next lower level of this series.
To Apply: For fullest consideration click on the Apply Now button, please fully complete all sections of the onlineapplication including adding your full work history with specific details of your duties & responsibilities for each position held. Fully complete the education, licensure, certification and language sections. You may upload a resume, cover letter, certifications, licensures, transcripts and diplomas within the application.
Please note that once you have submitted your application you will not be able to make any changes. In order to revise your application you must withdraw and reapply. You will not be able to reapply after the posting close date. Please ensure the application is fully completed and all supporting documents have been uploaded before the posting close date. Illinois Residency is required within 180 days of employment.
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
The university provides accommodations to applicants and employees. Request an Accommodation
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

University of Illinois logo

About University of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Illinois, located in Urbana, Illinois, US, is a prominent entity in the higher education sector. Operating its official functions through its website uillinois.edu, the institution provides a range of educational programs and services. The University was founded in 1867 and has since grown dramatically both in size and reputation. Its core values are embodied in its mission to enhance the lives of its students and citizens in the state, nation, and world through leadership in learning, discovery, engagement, and economic development. The university boasts several notable achievements including producing Nobel laureates and Pulitzer prize winners. It is renowned for its research programs and is known for significant advancements across various fields including engineering, science, and humanities.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Urbana, IL, US

Year founded

1974

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