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Library Library Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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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Library Library information

What are some common challenges faced by library staff when managing both physical and digital collections?

Library staff often encounter challenges in balancing the needs of patrons who use physical materials with those who prefer digital resources. This includes organizing and maintaining diverse collections, ensuring up-to-date technology, and providing effective user support for both formats. Additionally, staff must stay informed about copyright and licensing issues related to digital content, while also adapting outreach and programming to engage all types of library users. Effective collaboration with colleagues and ongoing professional development are key to navigating these evolving demands.

What is the difference between Library Library vs Library Assistant?

AspectLibrary LibraryLibrary Assistant
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS) or equivalentHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require a certificate or associate degree
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special libraries; often involves research and management tasksPublic service desks, shelving, assisting patrons, basic cataloging
Employer & Industry UsageLibraries, educational institutions, government agenciesLibraries, schools, community centers
Common Search & ComparisonHigher-level responsibilities, specialized skillsEntry-level, support roles, customer service

The main difference between Library Library and Library Assistant lies in their qualifications and responsibilities. Library Library typically requires a master's degree and involves more complex tasks, while Library Assistants usually have a high school diploma and focus on patron support and basic library functions.

What are library librarians?

Library librarians are trained professionals who manage and organize library resources, assist patrons in finding information, and maintain the library’s collection. They help users locate books, articles, and other materials, and often provide research guidance and technology support. Librarians also plan programs and events, catalog new materials, and ensure that the library operates smoothly. Their role is essential in promoting literacy, lifelong learning, and access to information within communities.

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

To thrive as a Librarian, you need a degree in library science or a related field, strong information management skills, and knowledge of cataloging and research methods. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital archives, and database search tools is typically required. Excellent communication, organizational abilities, and a customer-service mindset are standout soft skills in this role. These qualifications ensure efficient information access, resource organization, and positive community engagement within the library environment.
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Library Library jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Library Library job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Library job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 38% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

LIBRARY ASSOCIATE - HOURLY

City of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$32.30/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job 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 7/31/202 6
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