2

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

Invoicing Team - Maintain current library of Participant medical and pharmacy policies and support ... Work is generally performed in a remote setting. #LI-Remote $155,000.00 - $175,000.00 This is the ...

Our success is a direct reflection of the talented and diverse people who make a positive ... Strong proficiency in Python, including experience with common data science libraries such as ...

* $50,000 - $60,000 base salary range + annual bonus potential! * 100% remote in the United States ... Senior Director, Brand Marketing Job Level Individual Contributor Job Band Associate Full-Time: ...

Remote (Preferred: Philippines, Latin America, or North America) Employment Type: Full-Time / ... Build reusable UI components and front-end libraries. * Consume REST and GraphQL APIs. * Optimize ...

Write message parsers and feed handlers for direct market data feeds from trading venues ... Implement tools and libraries for petabyte-scale data processing and analysis. * Collaborate with ...

Job Location    The primary work location for this role is a remote work model.   About ... Be a key contributor to the competitive intelligence library and product opportunities list.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Remote Library Director information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$40.7K

$102.2K

$180.3K

How much do remote library director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote library 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 is the difference between Remote Library Director vs Remote Librarian?

AspectRemote Library DirectorRemote Librarian
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS), leadership experienceMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS), specialized knowledge
Work EnvironmentOversees library operations, manages staff, strategic planningProvides reference services, curates collections, assists patrons
Employer & Industry UsagePublic, academic, or special librariesPublic, academic, or special libraries
Search & Comparison IntentLeadership, management, administrative rolesReference, research, patron services

The main difference between a Remote Library Director and a Remote Librarian lies in their responsibilities. The Library Director focuses on overseeing operations, managing staff, and strategic planning, requiring leadership experience. The Librarian provides direct patron services, research assistance, and collection management. Both roles typically require an MLS degree and are found in similar library settings, but their focus and scope differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote library director?

To thrive as a Remote Library Director, you need expertise in library science, management, and digital resource curation, typically supported by a master's degree in library science (MLS/MLIS). Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital archives, and remote collaboration tools is essential. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help you effectively manage teams and foster community engagement from a distance. These skills and qualities ensure efficient library operations, high-quality user services, and successful adaptation to evolving digital landscapes.

What are some common challenges faced by a remote library director, and how can they be managed effectively?

As a Remote Library Director, one of the main challenges is fostering strong communication and collaboration among staff who may also be working remotely or across different locations. Managing digital resources, ensuring equitable access for patrons, and maintaining a sense of community engagement can also be demanding. Effective strategies include implementing regular virtual meetings, utilizing collaborative project management tools, and maintaining clear policies for digital resource management. Building a supportive remote culture and prioritizing ongoing professional development are also key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring the library continues to serve its community effectively.

What is a remote library director?

A Remote Library Director is a professional who oversees the operations, staff, and services of a library or library system while working remotely, often utilizing digital tools and communication platforms. They are responsible for strategic planning, budgeting, policy development, and ensuring quality library services, all from a location outside of the physical library. This role typically involves coordinating virtual programs, managing digital resources, and supporting staff through remote leadership. As library services increasingly shift online, Remote Library Directors ensure that both traditional and digital resources remain accessible and relevant to patrons.
What are the most commonly searched types of Remote Library jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Remote Library jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Remote Library Director jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Library Director jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Remote Library Director jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Remote Library Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Remote Library Director job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,237 per year, or $49.2 per hour.

Program Manager, Strategic Initiatives - PLA

American Library Association

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

$75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

The American Library Association (ALA) is seeking an experienced, organized Program Manager to support strategic initiatives for its Public Library Association (PLA) division. Working with the Deputy Director and with staff, external partners, and consultants, this grant-funded position will manage a range of programs for PLA’s expanding program/partnership portfolio. Programs address ongoing and emerging public library service areas, helping public libraries become more responsive to and reflective of community needs. 

At ALA, you will play a key role in delivering impactful programs that support public libraries and communities nationwide. This position offers the opportunity to grow your strategic and organizational expertise, while contributing to a mission-driven organization. 

Responsibilities include: 

  • Creating processes, procedures, and workplans for existing and emerging PLA programs, grants, and initiatives as assigned 
  • Developing content for special projects, presentations, and initiatives in coordination with members, staff, external partners, and consultants 
  • Effectively communicating the value of engagement with PLA and public libraries to advance shared goals with diverse stakeholders 
  • Managing complex contracts, RFPs, workflows, and relationships 
  • Developing, managing, and tracking budgets 
  • Grant writing and reporting 
  • Developing and executing evaluation and impact assessment strategies 
  • Overseeing the work of internal and external stakeholders to meet deadlines 
  • Researching, identifying, and reaching out to potential new partners to grow programs, resources, and membership 
  • Serving as liaison to stakeholder groups as assigned, including volunteer management and funder engagement

This is a regular full-time position based in our Chicago office. 

ALA staff are currently working on a hybrid schedule. Please note that although we have a generous telecommuting policy for our employees, we do not have fully remote positions outside of our workplace sites. 

All offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check and proof of eligibility to work in the United States. 

Salary & Benefits 

Starting salary range is negotiable from $75k based on relevant experience. ALA offers an excellent benefits package that includes flexible work schedules, medical and dental coverage, generous paid time off, a retirement annuity, and a 35-hour work week. You may also qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).  

For Consideration 

Apply online including a cover letter and resume at https://www.ala.org/aboutala/contactus/workatala

Requirements 

  • Demonstrated project management experience with on-time and on-budget results 
  • Outstanding written and verbal communication skills 
  • Expertise in relationship building and collaboration 
  • Strong organizational abilities and attention to detail 
  • Excellent judgment, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills that demonstrate a proactive and curious approach to workplace challenges 
  • Demonstrated grant writing and grant management experience 
  • Excellent budget development and management skills 
  • Nonprofit or association management experience, or experience working with volunteer membership organizations 
  • Ability to work independently and within a team; familiarity with matrixed workplace structure 
  • Experience with a variety of project management and productivity tools, including proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 
  • Up to 5% travel may be required for this position   

Preferred but not Required 

  • Supervisory experience 
  • Public speaking experience 
  • Experience with donor engagement/funder management tools such as Foundant 
  • Knowledge and understanding of public librarianship and education trends 

Additional Information 

  • This position is funded through a grant that enables the Association to expand and enhance its programs and services. We are seeking a candidate who is passionate about our mission and excited to contribute to the long-term success of this initiative. Employment is contingent upon the continued availability of grant funding.

The American Library Association is an equal opportunity employer: Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran