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Library Job Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Newberry Library

Library Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

Library Assistant DEPARTMENT: Reader Services SUMMARY: Reporting to the Reading Room Librarian for Public Service or the Reading Room Librarian for Collection Management, the Library Assistant ...

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How much do library job jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for library job in Illinois is $15.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.39 and $17.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by library staff, and how can they be addressed?

Library staff often navigate challenges such as balancing multiple service requests, adapting to new technologies, and addressing diverse patron needs. Effective time management and continuous professional development help staff stay organized and current with digital resources. Collaborating closely with colleagues and leveraging training opportunities can also improve problem-solving and customer service skills, leading to a more supportive and efficient work environment.

What is the difference between Library Job vs Archivist?

AspectLibrary JobArchivist
Required CredentialsLibrary degree or relevant certificationArchival certification or master's in library science with archival focus
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special librariesArchives, museums, or historical institutions
Employer & Industry UsageLibraries, educational institutions, public sectorsHistorical societies, museums, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both Library Jobs and Archivist roles involve managing information resources, Library Jobs focus on providing access to books, media, and digital collections in library settings. Archivists specialize in preserving and organizing historical records and documents. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in their focus and work environment.

What is a library job?

Library jobs refer to a variety of roles within libraries, including positions such as librarians, library assistants, technicians, archivists, and more. These professionals are responsible for organizing and managing library resources, assisting patrons with information needs, maintaining collections, and supporting educational or community activities. Library jobs can be found in public, academic, school, and special libraries, and may require different levels of education or specialized training depending on the position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a library job, and why are they important?

To excel in a library job, you typically need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a background in library science or related studies, often supported by a degree or certification. Familiarity with library management systems (e.g., Koha, Sierra), digital cataloging tools, and information databases is essential. Excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving skills help library staff assist patrons and work collaboratively with colleagues. These skills are vital for maintaining efficient library operations, ensuring accurate information retrieval, and fostering a welcoming environment for the community.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Library Job jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Library Job job openings:

Library Job jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Job job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,718 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Library Assistant

Newberry Library

Chicago, IL • On-site

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

TO APPLY: Interested candidates should attach a cover letter and resume/CV, both as PDF documents, to their application in the Newberry Career Center. Applications sent without both a resume and cover letter will not be considered. To be considered for this role, applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable to apply for a job on this site because of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodation by contacting us through the Jobs email link listed on the Newberry Career Center page.
ABOUT THE NEWBERRY: The Newberry collection-some 1.6 million books, 600,000 maps, and 5 million manuscript pages-is a portal to more than six centuries of human history, from the Middle Ages to the present. We connect researchers and visitors with our collection in the Newberry's reading rooms, exhibition galleries, program spaces, classrooms, and online digital resources.
Since its founding in 1887, the Newberry has remained dedicated to deepening our collective understanding of ourselves and the world around us. As individuals engage with Newberry collections and staff, they discover stories that bridge the past and present and illuminate the human condition.
The Newberry's community of discovery is driven by a shared commitment to promoting research, inspiring learning, and using inquiry across the humanities as a tool to engage critically in a vibrant democratic society.
TITLE: Library Assistant
DEPARTMENT: Reader Services
SUMMARY: Reporting to the Reading Room Librarian for Public Service or the Reading Room Librarian for Collection Management, the Library Assistant assists in the public service of the reading rooms while maintaining the security and preservation of the collections.
This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by AFSCME Council 31.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Locate, charge, and deliver materials from the closed bookstacks to readers in the reading rooms and throughout the building;
  • Reshelve returned materials;
  • Monitor use of the reading room and assist readers with the proper handling of materials;
  • Interpret and enforce Newberry Library rules of conduct and reading room policies;
  • Accurately maintain circulation database (Aeon) through routing and charging;
  • Evaluate materials for conservation treatment and route as appropriate;
  • Maintain closed and open stacks by participating in shifts and other stacks management projects;
  • Answer correspondence including reference research and copy requests;
  • Process reproduction orders using a book friendly scanner;
  • Serve as the circulation desk attendant providing orientation, direction, and assistance, including some reference help, to a wide variety of readers, as needed;
  • Sign in and assist readers with requests and digital image order submissions, as needed;
  • All other duties as assigned to meet departmental and organizational goals.
Other responsibilities may include:
  • Assist with coordination of presentations of library collection materials to classes and other groups;
  • Monitor use of library materials during presentations;
  • Interpret and enforce Newberry Library policy and regulations as they apply to collection presentations;
  • Assist with projects related to Reference collections and preparation of research guides
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required:
  • High school diploma or GED certificate required;
  • Commitment to providing high quality library services to a diverse group of students, scholars, staff, and researchers;
  • Ability to communicate with diverse library users and staff in person, by email, and by telephone;
  • Ability to work effectively with others in a team environment;
  • Ability to work quickly and accurately within a high level of activity;
  • Ability to sustain close attention to detail;
  • Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills;
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills;
Preferred:
  • Minimum of two years of college;
  • Strong interest in the humanities;
  • Previous library and/or public service work experience.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Physical strength, mobility, and endurance required for paging materials with the ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
SCHEDULE: This is a full-time, nonexempt position, working 35 hours per week, with normal hours generally from 9:00 AM-5:00 PM, Tuesday through Saturday. The incumbent will work fully onsite.
BENEFITS: For more information, please see the "What We Offer" section on the Newberry Careers page.
THE NEWBERRY LIBRARY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
For more information, please see the Newberry Careers page (https://www.newberry.org/careers)

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