1

Library Customer Service Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

next page

Showing results 1-20

Library Customer Service Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$20

$28

How much do library customer service assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for library customer service assistant in Chicago, IL is $20.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do you need for a library customer service assistant?

A library customer service assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent. Good communication skills, basic computer literacy, and a friendly attitude are important; some positions may require familiarity with library management systems or customer service experience.

How to get hired as a library customer service assistant?

To get hired as a library customer service assistant, applicants should typically have a high school diploma or equivalent, demonstrate strong communication and customer service skills, and be familiar with library systems or cataloging software. Volunteering or prior experience in customer service can improve chances, and some positions may require background checks or training on library policies. Applying through the library’s official website or in person and highlighting relevant skills in the application can increase employment prospects.

What are some common challenges faced by library customer service assistants, and how can they be effectively managed?

Library Customer Service Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing high volumes of patron inquiries, handling overdue or missing materials, and assisting visitors with varying levels of comfort using library technology. Effective communication, patience, and familiarity with library systems are crucial in addressing these situations. Building strong organizational skills and collaborating closely with librarians and other staff members can help streamline problem-solving and ensure a positive experience for patrons.

What is the difference between Library Customer Service Assistant vs Library Clerk?

AspectLibrary Customer Service AssistantLibrary Clerk
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer customer service experienceHigh school diploma; often similar certifications
Work EnvironmentPublic and academic libraries, customer-facing rolesPublic, academic, or special libraries, administrative tasks
Employer & Industry UsageLibraries, educational institutions, community centersLibraries, government agencies, educational institutions
Common Search & ComparisonCustomer service, public interaction, assisting visitorsAdministrative support, cataloging, clerical tasks

The Library Customer Service Assistant primarily focuses on assisting visitors, managing checkouts, and providing customer support in library settings. In contrast, a Library Clerk often handles administrative and clerical tasks such as cataloging and record-keeping. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but their core responsibilities differ, with the Customer Service Assistant emphasizing direct public interaction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a library customer service assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Customer Service Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with library catalog systems, basic computer applications, and circulation software is often required. Excellent communication, patience, and problem-solving abilities help you assist diverse patrons and handle inquiries effectively. These skills are essential to ensure efficient library operations, positive user experiences, and support for the community’s informational needs.

What does a library customer service assistant do?

A Library Customer Service Assistant helps library patrons by answering questions, checking books and materials in and out, issuing library cards, and assisting with locating resources. They may also help maintain the organization and cleanliness of the library, process new materials, and support library events and programs. Their role is essential in ensuring a positive and helpful library experience for all visitors.
What are popular job titles related to Library Customer Service Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL? For Library Customer Service Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Customer Service Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Library Customer Service Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Library Customer Service Assistant jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Library Customer Service Assistant job openings:

Customer Services Assistant- Nichols Library

Naperville Public Library

Naperville, IL • On-site

$18.65/hr

Part-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
The Customer Services Assistant assists customers at the public desk in all areas of Library services, providing consistent, accurate, and timely handling of Library materials for circulation. Provides quality customer service and collaborates with staff to resolve circulation related issues. Contributes to the general order and care of facilities and Library materials.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Upholds the highest standards of customer service with polite, helpful, and efficient interactions with vendors, customers, and staff.
  • Performs customer service activities for the library, including issuance of library cards, processes and routes materials, collects fees, processes Library's & LINKin expired Holds, and shelf reads.
  • Responds to customer requests promptly and courteously referring difficult or unusual requests to the appropriate Library staff with discretion.
  • Assists customers with use of Library equipment, print resources, technology, and online resources.
  • Troubleshoots basic problems with self-check machines, phones, and other departmental equipment.
  • Ensures the quality of the collection material by reviewing materials, processing lost material and routing damaged items to the appropriate department.
  • Facilitates communication concerning building issues with the Facilities Department and Library management.
  • Answers and responds to phone inquiries and/or routes calls to appropriate department.
  • Processes and completes curbside service.
  • Processes Inter-Library Loan (ILL) items and communicates with ILL customers.
  • Inspects and records safety of credit card machines, according to PCI guidelines.
  • Handles and records lost and found materials according to guidelines.
  • Makes announcements over the public address system as needed.
  • Accepts and reviews used material donations, according to guidelines. Maintains Used Book Sale section.
  • Collaborates on programs/projects with other staff, occasionally at other locations.
  • Assists with paging list fulfillment, including pulling, processing, and shelving Holds.
  • Monitors and maintains order in the public areas to ensure a welcoming environment for customers.
  • Assists and completes departmental statistics and reports.
  • Attends and assists with Outreach Library events.
  • May periodically serve as Person In Charge (PIC), providing support for employees, customers, and facility issues.
  • Attends professional development opportunities.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES
  • Demonstrate strong written, verbal communication and interpersonal skills working effectively with diverse cultures, interpersonal styles, abilities, and backgrounds.
  • Demonstrates exceptional customer service, providing quality assistance to vendors, customers and staff.
  • Keeps current in relevant technology, uses computer software programs such as Microsoft Office and Outlook and common office equipment to complete tasks/assignments.
  • Uses problem solving skills to assist in determining priorities and finding timely solutions to departmental or system-wide issues.
  • Uses computer software and common office equipment to complete tasks, keeps current with relevant technology.
  • Service oriented, provides quality customer assistance; establishes and maintains effective relationships with customers and staff.
  • Maintains confidentiality, professionalism, and discretion in situations.
  • Possesses strong technical skills. Familiar with a range of hardware and software technologies.
  • Strong organizational and time management abilities. Complete assignments and projects in a timely manner.
  • Demonstrates appropriate money management responsibilities.
  • Responsive to change and demonstrates adaptability.
  • Takes responsibility for consistent completion and follow-up on all tasks.
  • Maintains a positive approach while tasking in adverse situations.
  • Demonstrates a broader understanding of the job and looks for ways to improve Library services and support coworkers.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum two years of customer service experience.
  • Bilingual proficiency a 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.

BENEFITS
The benefits for this position 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 1 - 5 p.m.
Tuesday 1 - 5 p.m.
Wednesday 5 - 9 p.m.
Thursday OFF
Friday 1 - 5 p.m.
1 Sat/mo. 1 - 5 p.m.
1 weekend/mo.
1 Friday 5 - 9 p.m.
1 Saturday 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
1 Sunday 1 - 5 p.m.
To learn more about us, go to https://www.naperville-lib.org/jobs and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion | Naperville Public Library, IL (naperville-lib.org)