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Library Volunteer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Employee exercises supervision of library volunteers as authorized by the Library Director. For the full Library Assistant , click here . What You'll Bring * High School Diploma or G.E.D., and one ...

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Library Volunteer information

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How much do library volunteer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for library volunteer in the United States is $15.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.78 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Library Volunteer, you need organizational skills, attention to detail, and basic literacy, typically supported by a willingness to learn library procedures. Familiarity with library catalog systems, shelving protocols, and basic computer use is often required. Strong communication, reliability, and a helpful attitude make someone stand out in this role. These skills ensure efficient library operations, positive patron experiences, and valuable support for library staff.

What are some common responsibilities and challenges faced by library volunteers?

Library volunteers often assist with shelving books, organizing materials, helping patrons locate resources, and supporting library events. A common challenge is learning the library's classification system, which requires attention to detail and accuracy. Volunteers may also need to adapt to varying tasks and busy periods, especially during special events or peak hours. Working closely with librarians and other volunteers provides valuable experience in teamwork and customer service, making this role a great stepping stone for those interested in library science or community service.

What are library volunteers?

Library volunteers are individuals who donate their time and skills to support the daily operations and special programs of libraries. They assist with tasks such as shelving books, organizing materials, helping patrons find resources, preparing for events, and sometimes supporting literacy or outreach initiatives. Volunteers play a crucial role in enhancing library services and providing a welcoming environment for the community. Their efforts help libraries extend their programs and maintain high-quality services despite budget constraints.

What is the difference between Library Volunteer vs Library Assistant?

AspectLibrary VolunteerLibrary Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically none; volunteer basisHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require basic library training
Work EnvironmentPublic libraries, community centersPublic, academic, or special libraries
Employer & Industry UsageNon-profit, community service organizationsLibraries, educational institutions
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding volunteer roles in librariesJob responsibilities, qualifications, and career path

Library volunteers assist with various tasks without formal employment, often focusing on community support. Library assistants are paid staff with defined responsibilities, requiring some credentials. Both roles work in similar environments but differ mainly in employment status and qualifications.

More about Library Volunteer jobs
What cities are hiring for Library Volunteer jobs? Cities with the most Library Volunteer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs? The most popular types of Library jobs are:
What states have the most Library Volunteer jobs? States with the most job openings for Library Volunteer jobs include:
Library Associate (Full-Time) - Children's Services

Library Associate (Full-Time) - Children's Services

Champaign Public Library

Champaign, IL โ€ข On-site

$27.01 - $34.48/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Salary: $27.01 - $34.48 Hourly
Location : Champaign, IL
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 00181 - 5.2026
Department: Children's Services
Opening Date: 05/22/2026
Description
Under the supervision of the Children's Services Manager, provides prompt and friendly service to children, teens, and their caregivers in the Children's Services Department; assists department staff with programming and clerical tasks. The Library Associate provides reference and reader's advisory service and assists customers with technology; assists with programs for children and teens; provides support for a variety of departmental tasks.
Schedule includes a mix of daytime, evening, and weekend hours.
Open until filled, with first review of applicants on June 22, 2026.
Examples of Duties
  • Assists customers of all ages at the Children's Services and TeenSpace desks to include reference and information questions
  • Assists with questions on software, makerspace tools, and other technology related needs to customers of all ages
  • Advise readers of all ages regarding children's and teens reading and viewing interests
  • With support and direction from a librarian, assist with collection maintenance and development
  • With support and direction from manager and librarians, plans and leads programming for children and teens
  • Compile statistics and prepare activity reports
  • Assist with outreach activities
  • Assists training of staff and volunteers
  • Participates in departmental and library-wide training and activities, including technology, and safety training
  • Provides excellent internal and external customer service
  • Other duties as assigned

Requirements
  • Knowledge of and interest in children's and teens books and audiovisual materials
  • Some knowledge of library procedures, methods, techniques
  • Ability to perform routine clerical and record keeping tasks
  • Strong commitment to public service
  • Ability to work with library customers and staff in a friendly and efficient manner
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Ability to issue guidance and ensure compliance with the Library's Rules of Conduct and policies
  • Proficiency with workplace productivity software, including skills in Microsoft Office Suite
  • Ability to maintain reliable attendance and regular schedule
  • Ability to maintain a varied schedule, including day, evening, and weekend rotations
  • Good vision and hearing to effectively engage with customers
  • Manual dexterity to operate computer, phone, and maker space equipment
  • Physical ability to regularly lift library materials weighing up to 40 lbs, and to push fully loaded carts of library materials and assist in event setup
  • Satisfactory pre-employment background check

Acceptable Experience and Training
  • Bachelor degree required
  • One year of supervisory or team leader experience preferred
  • Public library experience preferred
  • Customer service experience preferred
  • Knowledge of Spanish and/or French is helpful
  • Any combination of experience and education that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities

The Champaign Public Library offers a comprehensive benefit package to regular full- and part-time employees that includes paid sick leave, vacation, and nine paid holidays each year.
Employees working 29 hours or less are not eligible for health insurance.
Other benefits include health and life insurance, and participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund pension plan, and access to a variety of other programs, such as dental and vision insurance, Employee Assistance Program, and deferred compensation plans.
01
Are you a current or previous Champaign Public Library volunteer or practicum student?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have any relatives who work for the Champaign Public Library?
  • Yes
  • No

03
If you have relatives who work for the Champaign Public Library, please share their name. (The answer box will allow you to enter 12 lines of text.)
04
What is your highest level of education?
  • Less than high school
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Some college
  • College degree or higher

05
Are you able to lift and carry items weighing up to 40 pounds?
  • Yes
  • No

06
The schedule includes a mix of daytime, evening, and weekend hours. Are you available to work this schedule?
  • Yes
  • No

07
How many years of experience do you have working in a public library?
  • 1-2 years
  • 3-4 years
  • 5 or more years
  • None

08
If you have public library experience, please describe the kind of work that you did. (The answer box will allow you to enter 12 lines of text.)
09
How many years of experience do you have working with children or teens?
  • 1-2 years
  • 3-4 years
  • 5 or more years
  • None

10
Please tell us about your experience working with children and teens. (This answer box will allow you to enter 12 lines of text)
11
Do you have programming experience with children or teens? Check all that apply.
  • Ages 0 - 2
  • Ages 3 - 5
  • Ages K - 5
  • Teens

12
Please select the experience you have assisting/instructing others with technology, including a makerspace.
  • 1-2 Years
  • 3-5 Years
  • 5+ Years
  • None

13
Please indicate how many years of experience you have providing excellent customer service.
  • 1-2 years
  • 3-4 years
  • 5 or more years
  • None

14
Please tell us about your customer service experience. (The answer box will allow you to enter 12 lines of text.)
15
Please describe how your skills, experience, and interests prepare you to be the best candidate for this position at the Champaign Public Library. (The answer box will allow you to enter 12 lines of text.)
16
I understand that I am required to submit with this application the names and contact information of three professional references. If you have not included this information in your application profile, please return to your application and complete this requirement.
  • I have included the names of three references in my application

Required Question