Remote Library Assistant Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Description

Are you a detail-driven library professional with a passion for accurate metadata, supportive team leadership and a strong sense of service? If so, the Illinois Heartland Library System (IHLS) would love to meet you! IHLS is seeking a CMC Grant Supervisor to lead cataloging operations for the Cataloging Maintenance Center (CMC) grant and help us serve our member libraries across central and southern Illinois. Whether overseeing cataloging workflows or guiding staff, your work will directly support the libraries and the communities they serve. This is a full-time position scheduled to work weekdays based at one of our three hubs in Carbondale, Champaign and Edwardsville, with hybrid remote work available. The starting pay range is $56,965 to $71,207. The CMC Grant Supervisor oversees daily cataloging operations, adheres to cataloging standards, and provides leadership and administrative support for the CMC grant. This role requires strong cataloging expertise, solid experience with OCLC Connexion, supervisory skills and the ability to maintain efficient workflows, accurate records, and positive team communication. The supervisor ensures high-quality metadata, supports staff development, and contributes to statewide resource-sharing initiatives. 

*Please note this job has a target start date of: October 12, 2026*. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead and oversee all cataloging operations for the CMC grant, maintaining high standards of bibliographic accuracy and metadata quality.
• Perform and supervise original and copy cataloging in OCLC Connexion, applying RDA, MARC, Library of Congress subject headings, classification systems, and other established cataloging frameworks.
• Review, correct, and enhance bibliographic records to ensure clarity, consistency, and compliance with national standards and grant requirements.
• Provide guidance, training, and quality control for cataloging staff, including reviewing records, offering feedback, coordinating workflows, and supporting performance development.
• Manage cataloging projects and timelines, including assigning tasks, monitoring progress, maintaining documentation, and preparing grant-related reports.
• Collaborate with IHLS departments and member libraries to support cataloging needs, address complex metadata issues, and strengthen statewide resource-sharing.
• Maintain cataloging procedures, documentation, and best-practice materials to support staff training and grant compliance.
• Monitor cataloging trends, rule changes, and professional standards to keep CMC practices current.
• Serve as a resource for member libraries seeking cataloging assistance, clarification, or support.
• Provide administrative support, including record maintenance, communication, and procedural updates.
• Assist with additional grant-related duties and general responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements

Education and Experience

• MLS, MLIS, or MSLIS from an ALA-accredited library school and three years of professional cataloging experience, or 5 years of experience in original and copy cataloging required.
• Experience cataloging in OCLC Connexion required.  
• Library administration or supervisory experience required. 
• Project management experience highly preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of cataloging standards such as RDA, MARC, and metadata best practices.  
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.  
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.  
• Ability to lead, support, and motivate staff. 
• Ability to provide quality customer service, making sure that the customers' needs are understood and met.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently. 
• Knowledge of professional library theories, issues, trends and current library technologies.
• Ability to use a computer and Microsoft applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams.
• Valid driver's license or ability to travel as required.

Working Conditions

• Work is typically performed in an office environment. 
• Hybrid remote work is available to only to Illinois residents who have supervisor approval. 

Physical Requirements

• Primarily sedentary work with occasional standing, walking, or lifting up to 20 pounds.
• Visual acuity required for accuracy-focused cataloging tasks.

Benefits IHLS offers a comprehensive full-time benefits package that includes the IMRF pension plan, as well as medical, dental and vision insurance, paid time off and employer-paid life insurance with additional coverage available. Our company culture values work-life balance. IHLS has proudly earned a St. Louis Post-Dispatch Top Workplaces designation for five years straight from 2022 through 2026! You are welcome here! IHLS provides equal opportunities to all regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, genetic information, and any other characteristics protected by law. Employment is contingent upon IHLS Board approval and successful completion of a background check and drug screen. 

Starting pay range: $56,965 to $71,207

 *Please note this job has a target start date of: October 12, 2026*.  

Apply directly on the IHLS website at illinoisheartland.org. If you require assistance or accommodation to apply, contact IHLS Human Resources at hr@illinoisheartland.org.