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Part Time Library Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Part-Time Librarian

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23.37/hr

Staffs the reference desk, and assists all library users in identifying and locating electronic and print materials, and solving research problems. * Provides information literacy instruction to ...

Part-Time Librarian

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23.37/hr

Staffs the reference desk, and assists all library users in identifying and locating electronic and print materials, and solving research problems. * Provides information literacy instruction to ...

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Part Time Library information

See Illinois salary details

$8

$18

$26

How much do part time library jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for part time library in Illinois is $18.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $20.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a part time library job?

Part-time library jobs are roles within libraries that require employees to work fewer hours than a traditional full-time schedule, often ranging from 10 to 30 hours per week. These positions can include jobs such as library assistants, clerks, shelvers, or even part-time librarians. Responsibilities typically involve helping patrons, shelving books, checking materials in and out, and assisting with library programs. Part-time roles are ideal for students, retirees, or anyone seeking flexible working hours. Benefits and requirements for these jobs can vary depending on the library and location.

What are the typical responsibilities and challenges faced by part time library staff?

Part-time library staff are often responsible for assisting patrons with locating materials, checking items in and out, shelving books, and helping to maintain an organized, welcoming environment. A common challenge is balancing peak times when multiple patrons require assistance, especially during busy periods or special events. Additionally, part-time employees may need to quickly adapt to new technologies and library systems, as well as collaborate with full-time staff to ensure smooth daily operations. This role is a great opportunity to build customer service and organizational skills in a supportive, community-focused setting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a part time library assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Part Time Library Assistant, you need organizational skills, attention to detail, and basic literacy and computer proficiency, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with library catalog systems (such as Koha or Sierra), digital archives, and office equipment is typically required. Strong customer service, communication skills, and a collaborative attitude help you engage effectively with patrons and team members. These abilities ensure efficient library operations and a positive experience for library users.

What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Library jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Part Time Library jobs in Illinois?

For Part Time Library jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Part Time Library jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Part Time Library jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Part Time Library jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Part Time Library job openings:

Infographic showing various Part Time Library job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,655 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Part-Time Library Operations Specialist

American

Campus, IL • On-site

$19 - $24.25/hr

Part-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University

Department:

Library Building Services

Time Type:

Part time


Job Type:

Regular

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt

Work Modality:

Union:

SEIU Local 500 - Provost & Enrollment DivisionThis position is part of a collective bargaining unit represented by SEIU Local 500 - Provost & Enrollment Division. That means the terms and conditions of your employment are governed by university policy (including the Staff Personnel Policies Manual) and any collective bargaining agreement entered into between American University and SEIU Local 500 - Provost & Enrollment Division.

Job Description:

Summary:

The Library Operations Specialist (part-time) works collaboratively as part of the Library Operations Team within the Administrative Services Department of American University Library.The incumbent is tasked with carrying out all the daily duties and procedures of the Library Operations team.This includes, but is not limited to, assisting with oversight of daily operations; supervision of student staff; and providing superior customer service to AU students, faculty, staff, and visitors.The Library Operations Specialist also assists the Library Operations team in promoting the security and safety of Library patrons, employees, guests and the library collection by monitoring conditions and activities throughout the library, deterring theft and vandalism, overseeing maintenance and repair work, and responding appropriately to emergency situations.

The Library Operations Specialist must be available to work several shifts not to exceed 27 hours per week, Monday through Sunday between the hours of 7:30am and 10:30pm.Operational needs may require evening and weekend hours. This position reports to the Manager, Library Operations and Facilities, and will be responsible for other duties in the library as assigned, to include assisting library leadership and other departments.

Essential Functions:

1.) Library Services (Service Point Oversight and Customer Service)

  • Assist in the supervision of 20+ student employees and oversight of 3 service points providing front-line customer service to the AU community during 90+ operational hours.

  • Ensure the punctual opening of library service points for staff and patrons and that workstations are always adequately staffed.

  • Uphold the highest standards of customer service.

  • Assist patrons with basic searches in AU Library's online catalog and refer patrons to appropriate library resources and service points.

  • Report emergency incidents to Public Safety and keep Library employees and patrons apprised of potential disruptions.

2.) Building Operations

  • Ensure that library patrons have access to spaces that are clean, welcoming, and conducive to learning.

  • Conduct routine building inspections and report through appropriate channels any building maintenance issues or damage, malfunctioning equipment, and housekeeping issues to ensure timely repair and/or correction.

  • Take appropriate action to protect library equities from damage.

  • Routinely inspect furniture and library equipment for serviceability and wear.

  • Communicate all building issues (non-functioning facilities/equipment, damage/leaks, pest/insect issues, housekeeping) to appropriate Library Operations and/or university staff.

  • Address, monitor, and follow-up on all maintenance requests and ensure timely response to routine facility and housekeeping issues.

  • Monitor condition and use of all library furniture and equipment.

  • Recommend and address routine maintenance/warranty requirements.

  • Report emergency incidents to Public Safety and keep Library employees and patrons apprised of potential disruptions.

  • Assist in the set-up and take-down of events in library spaces.

3.) Student Oversight

  • Assist in training students in the proper staffing of library service points; help evaluate student performance and contribute to routine assessments of policies and procedures associated with library operations.

  • Represent library leadership during evening and weekend hours.

4.) Other Duties

  • Perform other responsibilities, including (but not limited to) participating in special projects and assisting other departments within the library.

  • Assist with building signage, handouts, and other informational material.

  • Support the assessment, creation, and implementation of building policy and associated training.

  • Complete other tasks as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibility:

  • Assist in day-to-day supervision of student staff.

Competencies:

  • Serving Customers.

  • Acquiring and Analyzing Information.

  • Supporting Coworkers.

  • Making Accurate Judgments and Decisions.

  • Prioritizing and Organizing.

  • Championing Customer Needs.

  • Evaluating and Implementing Ideas.

  • Driving Continuous Improvement.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

  • Part-time.

  • Up to 27 hours per week.

  • Hours will include weekends and evenings.

Salary Range:

  • $19.00 - $24.25 per hour.

Required Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree.

  • 1 - 3 years of relevant experience.

Preferred Educationand Experience:

  • Bachelor's degreefrom American University.

Other Duties:

  • Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Benefits

Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options.

Other Details

  • Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check.

  • Employees in staff positions at American University must deliver their services to the university from either the District of Columbia, Maryland, or Virginia, or perform work on-site at the university.

  • Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

  • American University is an E-Verify employer.

Current American University Employees

American University current employees must apply through their employee Workday account. If you are a current employee at American University, please log intoWorkdayand select the Find Jobs report which will take you to our internal career listings.

Contact Us

For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, emailtheworkline@american.edu.

American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual's genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.