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Volunteer Chicago Public Library Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Chicago

LIBRARY ASSOCIATE - HOURLY

Chicago, IL · On-site

$32.30/hr

BID/JOB ANNOUNCEMENT LIBRARY ASSOCIATE - HOURLY (MULTIPLE VACANCIES SYSTEMWIDE) CHICAGO PUBLIC ... or volunteering in a library • Bookstore/retail/customer service experience • Previous ...

Iredell County

Library Volunteer

Statesville, NC · On-site

Description GENERAL STATEMENT OF JOB Volunteers are an exciting and important component to the Iredell County Public Library. Thank you for your interest in joining the library team. To cultivate a ...

Iredell County, NC

Library Volunteer

NC · On-site

... Public Library. Thank you for your interest in joining the library team. To cultivate a welcome and inclusive experience for everyone who uses the library, all staff, volunteers, and patrons are ...

City of La Crosse

Library Assistant

La Crosse, WI

$21.88/hr

Description Library Assistant I - Public Services - La Crosse Public Library: Grow your career with ... Benefits: Voluntary dental and vision plans, paid holidays, vacations, and sick leave. Selected ...

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City of Hemet

Volunteer - Library

Hemet, CA

Answering telephone and directing citizen inquiries Performing various clerical duties Planning and assisting in community event projects Providing assistance in the Public Library Volunteer to be an ...

City of Oceanside

Library Volunteers

Oceanside, CA

Opportunities The Oceanside Public Library offers a wide range of services to our community. For information on the library volunteer programs please visit the link here: Library Volunteer ...

The New York Public Library

$55K/yr

Description Overview The New York Public Library (NYPL) has been an essential provider of free ... Facilitates the work and activities of teen volunteers and teen advisory councils * Develops and ...

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All JobsVolunteer Chicago Public Library Jobs

Volunteer Chicago Public Library information

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$8

$19

$33

How much do volunteer chicago public library jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer chicago public library in the United States is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Volunteer Chicago Public Library vs Library Assistant?

AspectVolunteer Chicago Public LibraryLibrary Assistant
Required CredentialsNone or minimal; background checks often requiredHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require library science coursework
Work EnvironmentPublic library settings, assisting with events, shelving, customer serviceLibrary environment, performing clerical tasks, customer assistance, shelving
Employer & Industry UsageVolunteer roles in public libraries, community servicePaid staff in libraries, often part-time or full-time

Volunteer Chicago Public Library roles are typically unpaid and focus on community service, assisting with various library functions. Library Assistants are paid employees with more responsibilities and required credentials. Both roles work in similar environments but differ mainly in compensation and formal qualifications.

What can volunteering at a library teach you?

Volunteering at a library, such as a Chicago Public Library, can teach valuable skills like customer service, organization, and communication. It also provides experience working in a community environment and may improve teamwork and problem-solving abilities.

What are Volunteer Chicago Public Library positions?

Volunteer positions at the Chicago Public Library involve assisting library staff with a variety of tasks such as shelving books, helping patrons locate materials, supporting library programs, and participating in special events. Volunteers may work with children, teens, or adults, and can choose assignments that match their interests and skills. These roles help enhance library services and provide valuable support to both staff and the community. Opportunities are available at many branch locations throughout Chicago, and training is provided for new volunteers.

What types of tasks and responsibilities can volunteers expect at the Chicago Public Library?

Volunteers at the Chicago Public Library can expect to assist with a variety of tasks such as shelving books, preparing materials for programs, helping patrons locate resources, and supporting special events or literacy initiatives. Volunteers may also be involved in leading homework help sessions, aiding in technology classes, or assisting with children's story time activities. The specific duties often depend on the branch location and the needs of the library, providing a dynamic and community-focused work environment. Collaboration with library staff is common, and volunteers play a key role in enhancing the library's outreach and service to patrons.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Volunteer at the Chicago Public Library, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Volunteer at the Chicago Public Library, you need strong organizational skills, basic literacy, and a willingness to support library programs, typically requiring a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with library catalog systems, basic computer skills, and knowledge of library resources are beneficial. Excellent communication, reliability, and a customer-focused attitude are standout soft skills in this position. These skills ensure volunteers provide helpful assistance to patrons, support library operations, and foster a welcoming community environment.

What are the one day volunteer opportunities in Chicago?

Volunteer opportunities at Chicago Public Library that are one day events typically include assisting with special programs, book drives, or community outreach activities. These opportunities often require minimal commitment and may involve tasks like event setup, registration, or helping with activities, usually scheduled on specific dates. Volunteers should check the library's event calendar or contact local branches for upcoming one-day opportunities and any required training or age restrictions.

Can I volunteer at Chicago Public Library?

Yes, the Chicago Public Library offers volunteer opportunities for individuals interested in supporting library programs, assisting with events, or helping in various departments. Volunteers typically need to complete an application, attend an orientation, and may be asked to undergo a background check depending on the role. Opportunities are available for different age groups and skill levels, often requiring a commitment of a few hours per week.

Do I get paid if I volunteer at a library?

Volunteer positions at a library, including roles like Volunteer at a Chicago Public Library, are unpaid. Volunteers contribute their time and skills without monetary compensation, often assisting with tasks such as shelving, customer service, or program support.
What cities are hiring for Volunteer Chicago Public Library jobs? Cities with the most Volunteer Chicago Public Library job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Chicago Public Library jobs? The most popular types of Chicago Public Library jobs are:
What states have the most Volunteer Chicago Public Library jobs? States with the most job openings for Volunteer Chicago Public Library jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Volunteer Chicago Public Library jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Volunteer Chicago Public Library jobs are:
Volunteer Chicago Public Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Volunteer Chicago Public Library job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, and 45% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,804 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

LIBRARY ASSOCIATE - HOURLY

City of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$32.30/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

BID/JOB ANNOUNCEMENT
LIBRARY ASSOCIATE - HOURLY (MULTIPLE VACANCIES SYSTEMWIDE)
CHICAGO PUBLIC LIBRARY
Library Operations & Patron Experiences
Number of Positions: Multiple
(Additional vacancies possible pending budget approval)
Starting Salary: $32.30/Hourly
This position is open to the public and all current City employees covered under the City's collective bargaining agreement with AMERICAN FEDERATION OF STATE, COUNTY, AND MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES (AFSCME) - BARGAINING UNIT 1, 3, 4 & 5. Only employees in City job titles in this bargaining unit are eligible to bid.
BID INSTRUCTIONS: Apply on the bid site: https://chicago.taleo.net/careersection/103/jobsearch.ftl?lang=en AND
1. Check the box on your profile titled "Currently employed by the City of Chicago"
2. Enter your employee ID (located on your pay stub labeled 'payee/employee number')
3. Select your correct bargaining unit
FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS WILL RESULT IN A REJECTED BID APPLICATION
Applications for this position will be accepted until 11:59pm CDT on 7/31/202 6
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Assists library patrons in using facility resources (e.g., the catalog of library materials, indexes and reference materials).
Assists in developing and administering library programs and services (e.g., adult book discussion, library orientation, bibliographic instruction, children's programs). Performs collection maintenance activities including shelving and purging of library materials. Assists in ordering and cataloging of books and materials. Assists in arranging library displays and exhibits to publicize facility services. Conducts research on bibliographic data using library databases and the Internet. Conducts library orientation and bibliographic instruction through the use of printed materials and electronic resources. Prepares documentation and information about library activities (e.g., records, reports, promotional flyers, bulletin boards). Assists at the circulation desk as needed (e.g., charging for library materials, maintaining inventory of supplies, processing interlibrary loans, reserves, and holds). Promotes library programs and services (e.g. visiting area schools and community organizations)
LOCATION: Various (District's 1-5)
DAYS OFF: Two days off per week
SHIFT: Will be required to work some evenings and weekends
HOURS: 80 hours per month to be scheduled during normal unit hours
THIS POSITION IS IN THE CAREER SERVICE
Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree.
Disclaimer - "Accredited" means any nationally or regionally accredited college, university, or law school where the applicant is enrolled in or has completed an Associates, Bachelors, Masters, or Juris Doctorate degree program.
NOTE: To be considered for this position you must provide information about your educational background and your work experience. You must include job titles, dates of employment and specific job duties. (IF you are a current City employee, Acting Up cannot be considered). If you fail to provide this information at the time you submit your application, it will be incomplete, and you will not be considered for this position. There are three ways to provide the information: 1) you may attach a resume; 2) you may paste a resume; or 3) you can complete the online resume fields.
Educational & Employment Verification:
Please be advised that if you are selected to be hired you must provide, upon request, adequate information regarding your educational and employment history as it relates to the qualifications of the position for which you are applying. If you received your degree internationally, all international transcripts/diploma must be accompanied by a Foreign Credential Evaluation. If the City of Chicago cannot verify this information, any offer extended to you will be withdrawn and you will not be hired.
SELECTION REQUIREMENTS
This position requires applicants to complete an interview. The interviewed candidate(s) possessing the qualifications best suited to fulfill the responsibilities of the position will be selected.
Selected Bidders will be hired in seniority order according to the collective bargaining agreement.
Preference will be given to candidates possessing the following:
• Experience working or volunteering in a library
• Bookstore/retail/customer service experience
• Previous experience in education, social work or related fields
• Ability to work with diverse patronage, including children, teens and adults
• Coursework in pursuit of a MLIS or MSLIS
For Information on our employees benefits please visit our benefits website at:
https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/fin/benefits-office.html
For Information on our salary and title structure visit our classifications website at:
https://www.chicago.gov/content/dam/city/depts/dhr/supp_info/JobClassification/2025_Classification_and_Pay_Plan.pdf
APPLICATION EVALUATION: Initial evaluation will be based on information provided on the application and the documents submitted. Department of Human Resource staff will review applications after the final posting date. Staff will follow any and all required Employment/Hiring Plan provisions, federal, state and local laws, and Collective Bargaining Agreements when applicable. Staff will apply hiring preferences as required by the municipal code. Placement on an eligibility list is not an offer or guarantee of an interview nor employment with the City of Chicago.
COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY: To further our commitment to hiring applicants with diverse experience the City of Chicago has adopted the following ordinances 2-74-020 and 2-74-075. The ordinances provide a preference to applicants who meet minimum qualifications and who are veterans of the Armed Forces, and/or residents of Socio-Economically Disadvantaged Areas (SEDA) and/or Chicago Public School (CPS) high school graduates to be referred to departments for consideration. These hiring preferences do not apply to bidders, as Collective Bargaining Agreements define the hiring process for bidders. For positions covered by a collective bargaining agreement, bidders will be considered before external candidates. To learn more about our hiring practices click here.
ALL REFERENCES TO POLITICAL SPONSORSHIP OR RECOMMENDATION MUST BE OMITTED FROM ALL APPLICATION MATERIALS SUBMITTED FOR CITY EMPLOYMENT
The City of Chicago is an Equal Employment Opportunity, Military Friendly, and Fair Chance Employer
City of Chicago
Brandon Johnson, Mayor

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