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Student Library Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Northwestern University

Library Assistant 2

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.42 - $23.40/hr

Law Library Salary/Grade: NEX/10 Target hiring range for this position will be between $18.42- $23 ... M. students and 90 residential faculty of the Northwestern University School of Law The Pritzker ...

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Harper College

Library Assistant - Technical

Palatine, IL · On-site

$22.10 - $24.85/hr

Library service experience and evidence of organizational and multi-tasking skills preferred ... Verifies student demand for hotspots; tracks trends and makes suggestions for hotspot loan policies.

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All JobsStudent Library JobsStudent Library Assistant JobsStudent Library Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Student Library Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$7

$16

$24

How much do student library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for student library assistant in Chicago, IL is $16.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do I need to work as a student library assistant?

To work as a student library assistant, applicants typically need to be enrolled as students, demonstrate good organizational and communication skills, and sometimes complete a brief training or orientation. Some positions may require a minimum age or academic standing, and familiarity with library systems or tools like cataloging software can be helpful.

What qualifications do you need for a student library assistant?

A student library assistant typically needs to be a current student with good organizational and communication skills. Some positions may require basic computer literacy and the ability to work flexible hours, but specific qualifications vary by institution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a student library assistant?

To thrive as a Student Library Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and basic computer literacy, often complemented by enrollment in a college or university. Familiarity with library catalog systems, circulation software, and office productivity tools is typically necessary. Excellent customer service, communication, and time management skills help build rapport with patrons and manage multiple tasks efficiently. These competencies ensure smooth library operations, positive user experiences, and effective support for library staff and visitors.

What is the difference between Student Library Assistant vs Library Clerk?

AspectStudent Library AssistantLibrary Clerk
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or ongoing student statusHigh school diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentSchool or university libraries, part-timePublic or academic libraries, full-time or part-time
Employer & IndustryEducational institutionsPublic, academic, or special libraries
Common Search IntentEntry-level library support roles for studentsSupport staff in library operations

The main difference between a Student Library Assistant and a Library Clerk lies in their typical work environment and employment status. Student Library Assistants are usually students working part-time in school or university libraries, while Library Clerks are employed in various library settings, often with more formal responsibilities. Both roles require similar basic credentials, but their job scope and employer types differ.

Is it hard to become a student library assistant?

Becoming a student library assistant typically requires a minimum age, good organizational skills, and a willingness to perform tasks like shelving books and assisting visitors. Many positions are part-time and may not require prior experience, but strong communication skills and reliability are important. Competition varies by school or library, but the role is generally accessible to students who meet the basic requirements.

What is a student library assistant?

Student Library Assistants are students who work in campus libraries to support day-to-day library operations. They typically help with tasks such as checking out and shelving books, assisting patrons in finding materials, managing study spaces, and performing basic administrative duties. This role offers students an opportunity to gain work experience, improve organizational skills, and contribute to the campus community. The position often requires good communication skills, attention to detail, and reliability.

What are the common responsibilities of a student library assistant?

Student Library Assistants are usually responsible for tasks such as shelving books, checking materials in and out, assisting patrons with locating resources, and maintaining a quiet, organized environment. They may also help with processing new materials, setting up displays, or supporting library events. The role provides valuable customer service experience and often involves collaborating with librarians and other student staff, making teamwork and communication skills important.
What are the most commonly searched types of Student Library jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Student Library jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Student Library Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL? For Student Library Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Student Library Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Student Library Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Student Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Student Library Assistant job openings:
Student Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Student Library Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,531 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Student - Library Assistant

Purdue University

Hammond, IN • On-site

Other

Re-posted 22 days ago

Purdue University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

309th of 616 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Student - Library Assistant
City: Hammond
Job Description:
Job Summary
MUST be an Undergraduate student at PNW enrolled in at least 6 credit hours
Please send current class schedule for consideration
Library Student Assistants will provide excellent customer service to our patrons at the Library's Public Services Desk. They will assist students, faculty, staff and community borrowers in the operation of equipment, directional information and location of programs in the library.
Desired Skills

  • Excellent verbal communication skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Must be able to demonstrate good judgement skills such as patiently seeking to understand customer's issue and/or situation with proper follow-up and communication of status update to supervisors in their absence
  • Positive presence
  • Courtesy and tact with public
  • Basic knowledge of Windows operating system
  • Must be flexible and adaptable (shift may vary, weekend and evening hours required)
Responsibilities
  • Serve as first point of contact at the front desk
  • Explain and apply library regulations and policies
  • Open and close library as scheduled and at times without supervision
  • Must be flexible and adaptable (shifts vary, weekend and evening hours required)
  • Shelve, and shift library materials
  • Shelf read, dust, and straighten the shelves
  • Keep desks, tables, and shelves clear of debris
Responsibilities cont'd
  • Troubleshoot and service
    • Computers
    • Printers
    • Simple scan Machines
    • Photocopiers
    • Microform machines
  • Assist users with
    • Simple research questions
    • Check library materials in/out
    • Place hold for library materials
    • Using PurdueBorrow
  • Perform a daily check on computers in the library to ensure all are functioning properly
    • Clean Monitors and keyboards
  • Maintain a secure and safe library facility
  • Check database and online journal links on library pages for errors
  • Receive donations
    • Check the catalog for already owned and potentials for replacements due to wear and tear
Core Competencies
  • Must be able to demonstrate good judgment skills such as patiently seeking to understand customer's issues and/or situations with proper follow-up, and communication of status updates to supervisors in their absence
  • Identify and escalate issues requiring urgent or immediate attention
  • Design and put up new bulletins boards
  • Help with CSC questions; password resets and simple fixes
Education
  • PNW Undergraduate Student

FLSA Status
Non-Exempt

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