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Library Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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See Chicago, IL salary details

$8

$16

$29

How much do library jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for library 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.

Can you get hired at a library with no experience?

Library positions such as library assistants or clerks often do not require prior experience and may provide on-the-job training. Having good organizational skills, customer service abilities, and familiarity with library systems can improve chances of hiring, even without previous experience. Entry-level roles typically focus on supporting library operations and customer needs.

Is it hard to get hired as a librarian?

Getting hired as a librarian typically requires a master's degree in library science or information studies and relevant experience. Competition can vary depending on the location and type of library, but strong organizational skills and familiarity with library management systems improve job prospects.

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

To thrive as a Librarian, you typically need a Master’s degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS), strong research skills, and organizational abilities. Familiarity with library management systems, digital archives, and cataloguing tools like MARC or Dewey Decimal Classification is essential. Excellent communication, customer service, and problem-solving skills help librarians engage diverse patrons and collaborate with colleagues. These competencies ensure effective resource management, support lifelong learning, and enhance community access to information.

What kind of jobs do libraries offer?

Libraries offer a variety of jobs including librarian, library assistant, archivist, cataloger, and technical services staff. These roles often require skills in organization, customer service, and familiarity with library management systems or cataloging tools. Positions may be full-time, part-time, or seasonal, and some roles require relevant certifications or degrees in library science.

Can you work at a library without being a librarian?

Yes, many library jobs do not require a librarian certification and include roles such as library assistants, clerks, or technicians. These positions often involve tasks like shelving, checking out materials, and helping patrons, and may require customer service skills and familiarity with library systems. Certification is typically not necessary unless applying for professional librarian roles with specific qualifications.

What do library workers do?

Library workers assist patrons in finding and borrowing materials, organize and maintain collections, and help with research and technology use. They may also plan educational programs, manage digital resources, and support community events. The specific duties depend on the role, such as librarian, library assistant, or technician, but all focus on making information accessible to the public.

What Qualifications Do I Need to Get a Job in a Library?

Different library jobs have varying qualifications. To become a librarian, you need a master’s degree in either library science or information studies. This is important if you work with students in an academic setting. You also need some research experience and a strong awareness of research procedures and tools. Library technicians and assistants need to have a high school diploma or a GED certificate and strong administrative skills. If you are seeking a job in library computer support, you need at least a bachelor’s degree in information technologies.

What are some common challenges faced by library staff when adapting to digital resources and technology?

Library staff often encounter challenges such as staying current with rapidly evolving digital platforms, assisting patrons with varying levels of tech literacy, and integrating new technologies with existing catalog systems. Balancing traditional library services with digital resource management requires ongoing training and flexibility. However, many libraries provide professional development opportunities and foster a supportive team environment to help staff successfully navigate these changes.

What jobs can you work at a library?

Jobs at a library include librarian, library assistant, library technician, archivist, and library clerk. These roles involve tasks such as managing collections, assisting patrons, cataloging materials, and maintaining library operations, often requiring relevant education or certifications. Staff typically work during library hours and use tools like library management software.

Is librarian a low stress job?

Librarians typically experience moderate stress levels, as their work involves managing collections, assisting patrons, and maintaining organization. Factors such as workload, library size, and public interaction can influence stress, but the job generally offers a calm environment with regular hours. Certification and strong organizational skills are often required for success in this role.

What is the difference between Library vs Archivist?

AspectLibraryArchivist
Required CredentialsLibrary degree or certification, MLS/MLISArchival certification, MLS/MLIS often preferred
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special librariesArchives, museums, historical institutions
Industry UsageInformation management, education, public servicePreservation, historical records, cultural heritage

Libraries and archivists both manage information resources, but libraries focus on providing access to current materials for the public or specific groups, while archivists preserve historical records and rare collections. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Library jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Library jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Library jobs in Chicago, IL? For Library jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Library jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Library jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Library job openings:
Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,718 per year, or $16.2 per hour.
Library Assistant - 2

Library Assistant - 2

Vernon Area Public Library

Lincolnshire, IL • On-site

$21.23 - $26.52/hr

Other

PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

LIBRARY ASSISTANT - 2
Application Deadline: July 1, 2026
Status: Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Typical Schedule: 15-18 hours/week; Weeknights and Weekends as required
The schedule for this position requires Monday evening 5pm-9pm; two total weekday shifts of 9am-1pm or 1pm-5pm (any combination of Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday); approximately three weekend days per month (a combination of Saturdays and/or Sundays 9am/10am-5pm)
Compensation: $21.23 to $26.52
Required Education: Associate's Degree or Library Technical Assistant Certificate
At Vernon Area Public Library District (VAPLD), "All Are Welcome Here!"
We love our jobs. We love serving our community and being a gateway to exploring stories, developing programs and sharing smiles. Everyday, we go to work filled with passion to be excellent, to creatively problem solve and to innovate. Our endeavors aim to help support literacy, programs and underpin the needs of our community. VAPLD is analyzing its commitment to the community and how it could be more service-savvy by supporting diverse perspectives, committing to environmentally sustainable behaviors and creating safe spaces.
VAPLD is looking for doers and thinkers, who are not afraid to cultivate relationships and support diverse perspectives. We are looking for forward-thinking team members who attack obstacles with a collaborative flair and an awesome spirit. Do you value helping people access information? Do you love community service? Are you a change agent? If these questions describe you, then please read on!
Position Summary
Working under the direction of the Head of Readers & Information Services, the Library Assistant is responsible for assuring high patron satisfaction while staffing the reference desk and answering patron questions in accordance with current library policies and procedures.
This position does not have any supervisory responsibilities, but may oversee assigned volunteers.
What You'll Be Working On

  • Answers questions and provides basic readers' advisory in person or via telephone, email, instant message, or other forms of electronic communication
  • Provides exemplary service to patrons in a timely and confidential manner, maintaining the library's high level of customer service in accordance with the Standards of Public Service
  • Maintains knowledge of current print and electronic resources to competently answer questions
  • Maintains knowledge of and provides basic help with circulating and non-circulating technologies, including but not limited to tablets, eReaders, laptops, public computers, printers, copiers, scanners, and fax machines
  • Provides user instruction for internet searching, email, social media, downloading services for digital media, and word processing
  • Demonstrates good judgment in the interpretation of library and department policies during normal workflow and emergencies
  • Refers in-depth or extended reference and readers' advisory questions to librarians, as needed
  • Performs notary services
  • Work at the reference desk, as scheduled
  • Attends scheduled meetings and core competency training, as required
  • Maintains awareness of overall library functions, projects, and goals
What You'll Bring
  • Minimum Education: Associate's Degree or Library Technical Assistant Certificate Preferred Education: Bachelor's Degree
  • Minimum Work Experience: 1 year in a public library or other customer service based field/organization
  • Service-oriented attitude with the ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with staff and the public
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to effectively provide reference assistance and instruction services
  • Strong technology skills to include: Microsoft Windows and Office applications, Google Suite applications, the internet, eReaders, and tablets
  • Ability to adapt to evolving technology
  • Thorough knowledge of popular materials for adults, and readers' advisory resources
  • Working knowledge of modern library policies and procedures, methods, practices, and materials
  • Ability to exercise initiative in problem-solving and refer questionable situations to supervisor
  • Ability to complete detailed work accurately, efficiently, and on time, with minimal supervision
  • Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize work assignments
What's In It For You?
  • Paid Time Off - typically one week upon date of hire and two weeks after the first year of employment
  • Diverse Work Environment
  • Competitive Salary
  • Annual Time Off: Paid Vacation, Paid Holidays, Personal Time Off (PTO) & Floating Holiday
  • Knowledgeable, high-achieving, experienced staff
  • Work-Life Balance

How To Apply
For full consideration, please submit a Resume & Cover Letter via the Career Center in ADP. All application material must be received by July 24, 2025. A full job description is available upon request. For additional questions, please contact Human Resources at recruiting@vapld.info
Equal Employment Opportunity
The library does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, arrest record, protected order status, genetic information, or other non-job related criteria in any term, condition, or privilege of employment
15-18 hours/week; The schedule for this position requires Monday evening 5pm-9pm; two total weekday shifts of 9am-1pm or 1pm-5pm (any combination of Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday); approximately three weekend days per month (a combination of Saturdays and/or Sundays 9am/10am-5pm)

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