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Library Management Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Library Management information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$29.4K

$75.2K

$127.7K

How much do library management jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for library management in Chicago, IL is $75,184.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,700.00 and $88,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a library manager do?

A library manager oversees the daily operations of a library, including managing staff, organizing collections, and ensuring excellent customer service. They also handle budgeting, policy implementation, and coordinate programs to promote library use, often using library management software and requiring strong organizational skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Library Management, and why are they important?

To thrive in Library Management, you need a background in library science or information management, often supported by a Master's in Library Science (MLS) and relevant experience. Familiarity with library management systems (LMS), digital cataloging tools, and database management is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills help managers effectively oversee staff and serve diverse patron needs. These competencies ensure efficient library operations, resource accessibility, and a positive user experience.

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

Library management professionals often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly evolving technology, meeting the diverse needs of patrons, and managing limited budgets. Staying updated with digital resources and implementing user-friendly technology can help address tech-related issues. Additionally, strong communication and collaboration with staff and community partners are essential for understanding patron needs and effectively allocating resources. Proactive problem-solving and ongoing professional development are key strategies for overcoming these challenges and supporting both the library team and its users.

What is the role of library management?

Library management involves overseeing the operation of a library, including organizing collections, managing staff, maintaining catalog systems, and ensuring access to resources for users. It requires skills in administration, knowledge of library software, and understanding of information organization standards.

What is library management?

Library management refers to the process of overseeing and coordinating the daily operations, resources, and services of a library. This includes managing staff, budgets, collections, technology, and programs to meet the needs of library users. Effective library management ensures that the library runs efficiently, offers relevant resources, and adapts to changing community needs. It also involves strategic planning, policy development, and implementing best practices for information organization and access.

What is the highest paying library job?

The highest paying library job is typically a Library Director or Chief Librarian, with salaries often exceeding $80,000 to $150,000 annually depending on the size and location of the institution. These roles require advanced degrees, leadership skills, and experience managing library operations and staff.

Do you need a degree to be a library manager?

A library manager typically needs a master's degree in library science or information management, along with relevant experience in library operations. While some positions may accept a bachelor's degree combined with extensive experience, a formal degree is generally preferred for managerial roles in libraries.

What is the difference between Library Management vs Library Assistant?

AspectLibrary ManagementLibrary Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically a master's degree in library science or related fieldHigh school diploma or associate degree, some positions may require a library technician certification
Work EnvironmentAdministrative offices, overseeing library operationsPublic service desks, assisting patrons and managing materials
Employer & Industry UsageLibraries, educational institutions, government agenciesPublic, academic, and special libraries
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on management, policy, and strategic planningFocuses on day-to-day patron service and material handling

Library Management involves overseeing library operations, strategic planning, and policy development, often requiring advanced degrees. In contrast, Library Assistants handle daily patron interactions, cataloging, and assisting with materials, typically with less formal education. Both roles are essential in library settings but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Library Management jobs in Chicago, IL? For Library Management jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Management jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Library Management jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Library Management job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 81% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,184 per year, or $36.1 per hour.
Library Services Clerk

Library Services Clerk

Glen Ellyn Public Library

Glen Ellyn, IL • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 14 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

Description:

DEPARTMENT: Library Services

SALARY CLASSIFICATION: Grade 2

STATUS: Part-time; irregular work shifts, daytime, evening and weekend hours; nonexempt [FLSA])

SUPERVISED BY: Library Services Director, Library Services Assistant Director, Library Services Supervisor

SUPERVISES: N/A


JOB SUMMARY:


The Library Services Clerk is responsible for providing excellent customer service while conducting material lending and receiving functions, and other related support activities.


PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

(percentages are approximate; duties are illustrative, not exclusive)


1. Providing lending and other services directly to the public:

A. Charging / discharging materials lent to members and other libraries

B. Issuing and renewing library cards

C. Assisting the public and answering and / or redirecting inquiries in person, over the telephone, and via email or chat

D. Receiving and recording fees

E. Updating member accounts in association with departmental transactions


These activities account for 35% of the work time.


2. Retrieving and processing requested materials:

A. Runs reports and verifies the status or collects materials associated with those reports

B. Removes items from the reserve shelf that have not been retrieved by the public, and changes the status in the library’s management system

C. Processes items from library shelves and receives materials from inside and outside the SWAN consortium for member holds

D. Prepares holds for pickup

E. Processes and transits material for holds to other libraries within and without the library system

F. Processes items for specialty library cards or in-house accounts


These activities account for 30% of the work time


3. Organizes items and carts for discharge and shelving:

A. Retrieves materials from book drops

B. Discharges materials lent to members and other libraries via the Library’s management system

C. Checks items for damage and verifies status in the computer

D. Organizes returned materials for shelving

E. Returns borrowed materials to the owning libraries

F. Returns print and audiovisual materials to their appropriate locations within the library


These activities account for 30% of the work time


4. Carries out other duties in support of the department and the Library, including:

A. Participates in department opening and closing activities

B. Participates in staff meetings, staff committees and staff development programs

C. Other duties, as assigned.


These activities account for 5% of the work time


INTERACTION:

With the Library Services Director and Assistant Director, other Library Services staff and the publi

Requirements

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES REQUIRED:

  • Possesses superb customer service skills
  • Comfortable using the Microsoft 365 applications and exhibits the ability to learn the Core Technology Competencies
  • Ability to learn the Library’s management system and the arrangements of material in a library
  • Able to bend, carry up to twenty pounds, move loaded wheeled carts weighing up to 300 pounds, and stand for 4-hour shifts
  • Demonstrates excellent interpersonal skills, including written and verbal communication
  • Pays attention to detail, able to multitask, and can prioritize and organize work
  • Able to work independently and as a part of a productive team

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or demonstrated equivalent
  • One year’s experience in a public contact position

WILL BE TAUGHT:

Library policy and procedures, Library management system

Requirements:

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES REQUIRED:


  • Possesses superb customer service skills
  • Comfortable using the Microsoft 365 applications and exhibits the ability to learn the Core Technology Competencies
  • Ability to learn the Library’s management system and the arrangements of material in a library
  • Able to bend, carry up to twenty pounds, move loaded wheeled carts weighing up to 300 pounds, and stand for 4-hour shifts
  • Demonstrates excellent interpersonal skills, including written and verbal communication
  • Pays attention to detail, able to multitask, and can prioritize and organize work
  • Able to work independently and as a part of a productive team


QUALIFICATIONS:


  • High school diploma or demonstrated equivalent
  • One year’s experience in a public contact position


WILL BE TAUGHT:


Library policy and procedures, Library management system