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Library Services Director Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Deputy Director

Lincolnwood, IL · On-site

$84 - $105/hr

This position is responsible for... * overseeing projects at the Director's request that help carry ... Three years library management experience with public library customer service experience preferred.

Develop and communicate a strategic vision for library and academic support services aligned with ... It is required that the Director of the University Library possesses: * An American Library ...

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Library Services Director information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$40.7K

$102.2K

$180.3K

How much do library services director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for library services director in Chicago, IL is $102,237.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,700.00 and $130,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Library Services Director do?

A Library Services Director oversees the operations and administration of a library or library system. They are responsible for developing library policies, managing staff, budgeting, and ensuring that library services meet the needs of the community. This role also involves strategic planning, outreach, and collaborating with other organizations to enhance library programs and resources. Library Services Directors often represent the library in public forums and work to secure funding and support.

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

To thrive as a Library Services Director, you need expertise in library science, organizational management, and a master’s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) is often required. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital resource platforms, and knowledge of cataloging standards and library technology is crucial. Leadership, strategic planning, excellent communication, and change management skills set outstanding directors apart. These abilities are vital to effectively manage library operations, foster community engagement, and guide the library’s evolution in a rapidly changing information landscape.

What are some common challenges faced by a Library Services Director, and how can they be effectively managed?

Library Services Directors often navigate challenges such as balancing budget constraints with the need to update technology, managing diverse staff and patron needs, and adapting library services to changing community expectations. Effective management involves proactive communication with stakeholders, strategic planning, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Directors who prioritize professional development for staff and build strong community partnerships are better equipped to address these challenges and ensure the library remains a vibrant, relevant resource.

What is the difference between Library Services Director vs Library Manager?

AspectLibrary Services DirectorLibrary Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple branches, strategic planning, policy development, and community outreachManages daily operations, staff supervision, and customer service within a specific branch
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS), leadership experienceMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS), experience in library operations
Work EnvironmentSenior leadership setting, administrative offices, multiple locationsFrontline management within a specific library branch

The Library Services Director typically holds a higher-level, strategic role overseeing multiple branches and community initiatives, requiring advanced credentials and leadership experience. The Library Manager focuses on daily operations and staff management within a single branch. Both roles require a Master’s degree in Library Science, but their scope and responsibilities differ significantly.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Library Services Director job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,237 per year, or $49.2 per hour.

Library Services Associate

Illinois Institute of Technology

Chicago, IL • On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Library Services Associate
Position Details
Compensation: $25.00 � $28.00 per hour, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Position Type/Schedule: Full-time, non-exempt. Scheduled for 7.75 hours per day, generally Monday through Friday, based on an established work schedule. Depending on Law Library and academic needs, scheduled hours may extend as late as approximately 8:00 p.m. During peak academic periods, additional scheduling flexibility may be required, including weekend coverage. Advance notice of schedule adjustments will be provided whenever practicable. This position is fully on-site; remote or hybrid work is not available.
Work Location: Chicago-Kent Law Library, Conviser Law Center, 565 W. Adams Street, Chicago, IL 60661.
Work Authorization: Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Illinois Tech is unable to sponsor or assume sponsorship of an employment-based visa for this position.
Summary
Located in downtown Chicago, Chicago-Kent College of Law provides a dynamic environment for legal education, scholarship, research, and service. The Chicago-Kent Law Library supports student and faculty success through legal research resources, professional research assistance, academic services, technology, and learning spaces.
Reporting to the Head of Access and Technical Services, the Library Services Associate supports circulation, Interlibrary Loan (ILL), resource sharing, document delivery, course reserves, faculty requests, and daily Law Library operations. The position focuses on responsive service, timely access to resources, and maintaining an organized and welcoming Law Library environment.
Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities
- Borrowing, lending, and resource-sharing requests through WorldShare, I-Share, Alma, and related systems; material retrieval, preparation, packaging, receiving, tracking, and processing
- Faculty research support; document delivery, scanning, faculty requests, and physical and digital course reserves
- Circulation and service desk operations; checkouts, returns, renewals, holds, study room reservations, patron inquiries, printing, scanning, and basic technology assistance
- Opening and closing/keyholder responsibilities
- General Law Library environment, facility, technology, security, and operational support
- Law Library projects, initiatives, special programs, and other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications
- Associate degree, completion of at least two years of college, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience
- Minimum two years of relevant library, academic support, customer service, office, or related professional experience
- Strong customer service, communication, organization, accuracy, and prioritization skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within established procedures
- Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and general office technology
Preferred Qualifications
- Academic, law, or research library experience
- Alma or comparable integrated library system experience
- OCLC WorldShare or comparable interlibrary loan/resource-sharing experience
- Familiarity with the Library of Congress Classification System
- Higher education, legal, or research environment experience
Service Standards and Performance Expectations
- Professional, responsive, and timely service
- Accurate and efficient processing of library requests and materials
- Effective organization, prioritization, and follow-through
- Professional communication and collaborative working relationships
- Reliability, flexibility, initiative, and sound judgment
Supervision & Budget Authority
- No supervisory authority
- No direct budget authority
Physical Qualifications
- Public service desk, office, library stack, workroom, and other Law Library environments
- Extended periods of sitting, standing, computer use, and repetitive tasks
- Ability to lift and carry at least 25 pounds; shelve and retrieve materials; pack and unpack materials; push or pull loaded book carts
- Occasional exposure to dust, mold, mildew, and similar conditions associated with library collections
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position, consistent with applicable law.
Benefits
This full-time position is benefits eligible. Benefits available to this position include medical, dental, and vision coverage; life and long-term disability insurance; staff salary continuation; a 403(b) retirement plan with university contributions and matching subject to plan eligibility requirements; tuition assistance programs; flexible spending and commuter benefits; an employee assistance program; paid time off; university holidays; and applicable paid and job-protected leave benefits.
Eligibility, waiting periods, employee contributions, coverage levels, accruals, and other terms are governed by applicable benefit plans and Illinois Tech policies.
For additional benefit and plan information: https://www.iit.edu/hr/benefits
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Illinois Institute of Technology is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Title VI/Title IX/Section 504/Americans with Disabilities Act/Age Discrimination in Employment Act employer dedicated to building a community of excellence, equity, inclusion, and diversity. It is committed to fostering an inclusive environment and actively seeks applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities, regardless of race, color, sex, marital status, religion, national origin, disability, age, unfavorable discharge from the military, status as a protected veteran, sexual orientation, including gender identity and expression, order of protection status, and/or genetic information. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment.