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Library Science Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Youth Services Librarian

Batavia, IL · On-site

$24.89 - $37.33/hr

Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an ALA-accredited program. * A minimum of 2 years' relevant experience working with children and their caregivers. * Knowledge of current library ...

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Library Science information

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How much do library science jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for library science in Chicago, IL is $16.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.12 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is library science?

Library science is the field that deals with the organization, management, and dissemination of information resources within libraries and similar institutions. Professionals in library science are responsible for cataloging books and media, helping patrons locate information, and preserving collections. They may also work with digital resources, data management, and information literacy. The field combines elements of information technology, archival science, and customer service to support education and research.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a library science professional?

To thrive in Library Science, you need a solid grounding in information organization, research, and cataloging, typically supported by a master's degree in library science (MLS or MLIS). Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital archives, and metadata standards like MARC or Dublin Core is essential. Strong interpersonal skills, customer service orientation, and adaptability help professionals assist diverse patrons and manage changing information needs. These skills are crucial for efficiently organizing resources, facilitating information access, and supporting lifelong learning in a rapidly evolving field.

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

Library science professionals often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly evolving technology, managing diverse patron needs, and navigating budget constraints. Staying current with digital resources and library management systems is essential, as is developing strong communication skills to serve a wide range of users. Proactively engaging in professional development, collaborating with colleagues, and seeking innovative ways to deliver services can help address these challenges while enhancing the value libraries provide to their communities.

What is the difference between Library Science vs Archivist?

AspectLibrary ScienceArchivist
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science or Information ScienceBachelor's or Master's degree in Archival Studies, History, or Library Science
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special librariesArchives, museums, or historical repositories
Employer & Industry UsageLibraries, educational institutions, government agenciesHistorical societies, museums, government archives
Common Search & ComparisonLibrary Science vs Archivist

Library Science and Archivists both work with information management, but Library Science focuses on organizing and providing access to library resources, while Archivists preserve and manage historical records and documents. Their roles often overlap in information organization, but their environments and specific skills differ.

Are there jobs in library science?

Yes, library science professionals such as librarians, archivists, and library technicians are employed in public, academic, special, and school libraries. These roles often require a master's degree in library science or a related field and involve managing collections, assisting users, and organizing information using library management systems.

Is library science a good career?

Library science is a viable career for individuals interested in managing information, assisting users, and organizing collections. It typically requires a master's degree in library science or information studies and involves skills in technology, cataloging, and research. Job prospects can vary based on location and institutional funding, but the field offers opportunities in public, academic, and special libraries.

What do you do with a library science degree?

A library science degree prepares individuals for careers as librarians, archivists, information specialists, or library technicians. These roles involve managing collections, assisting users, organizing information, and using library management systems. Additional certifications or knowledge of digital resources and cataloging standards are often beneficial.

What are the most commonly searched types of Library Science jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Library Science jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Library Science jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Library Science jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Library Science jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Science jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Library Science jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Library Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Science job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 24% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,718 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Part-Time Department Assistant - Youth Services/ $15.00hr

East Chicago, IN • On-site

East Chicago Public Library
Libraries and Archives • 51 - 200 employees

$15/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Department Assistant For Youth Services

The Department Assistant for Youth Services supports and assists the Associate Director of Youth Services or designee in all aspects of her/his works. Responsible for providing assistance with children's library programs in addition to providing technical and reference assistance to children, parents, teachers, and other patrons. Assists in planning, organizing, and performing scheduled programs and events. Work is performed under regular supervision.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

  • Assists in scheduling, planning and presenting Youth Service programs for pre-school and school-aged library patrons; organizes, schedules and promotes special exhibits and programs. Plans and conducts programs for children to encourage reading, viewing, listening, and use of library materials and facilities.
  • Confers with teachers, parents, and community groups to assist in developing programs to encourage and improve children's communication skills.
  • Assists in the development and implementation of children's reading, craft and story time programs.
  • Respond to public inquiries, including children's library reference questions in a courteous manner; provide information within scope of knowledge and refer to employee of higher classification as appropriate.
  • Advise patrons concerning choice of books or materials for themselves or for their children.
  • Responsible for the general appears of the Youth Service Department.
  • Prepares materials for shelving or filing.
  • Sensitizes, inspects, cleans as necessary, and sorts materials onto sorting shelves.
  • Searches stacks and other areas for claimed returned, traced, lost, missing, or other items, as assigned.
  • Performs Assistant-level work in other departments, as assigned.

Requirements

General knowledge of resource and reference materials, particularly those pertaining to children.

General knowledge of children's books and authors.

General knowledge of the Dewey Decimal Classification System and Library of Congress subject headings.

Ability to provide courteous public service and to present clear explanations of established policies and procedures.

Ability to interact effectively with the Library's automated system.

Skill at accurately and efficiently sorting and shelving materials in alphanumeric order. Physical capacity to place materials on shelves at all shelving heights.

Ability to work in a team setting. Willingness to assist and support coworkers, contribute ideas, maintain flexibility, and be able to adapt to a rapidly changing environment.

Physical and Mental Requirements

List the physical demands that are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential function of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Frequently standing simultaneously using hand, wrist and fingers;

Occasional sitting, walking, stooping, bending, squatting, reaching overhead or in front of body, and traveling to outside meetings and engagements. Conveying up to 15 pounds. Frequently talking and hearing ordinary conversation in person or by phone in a quiet but sometimes noisy environment.

Education, Certification, Experience, and Training

Must qualify for Librarian Certificate 6 (LC6) - High school diploma or GED with 5 years of library experience or 9 semester hours of required library science courses. Must complete a minimum of 50 Library Educational Units every 5 years, consistent with Indiana State Library regulations.

The requirements given above are not intended as exclusive standards for this position. Additionally, the duties and responsibilities listed are meant to be illustrative of the nature of the position and do not include all tasks that may be necessary to this job function. Further, individuals may be required to work in other areas and at different functions that those described in accord with changing needs of the library.