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Job Board

Welcome to the Library Job Board

Looking to advance your career? Find the latest library job openings from across the State of Illinois and surrounding areas right here. Use the filters below to search for available positions. Illinois Heartland Library System does not collect candidate resumes for outside organizations, but we do post open positions on our website to connect organizations with potential candidates.

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Thank you for your interest in working for IHLS, named a 2022 Top Workplace by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. To find positions at IHLS when using a desktop computer, press ctrl + f (on Windows PC, Chromebook, or Linux system) or command + f (on a Mac) on the keyboard. Then, search “Illinois Heartland Library System” in the search box. If there are no positions listed for IHLS, consider sending us a resume and cover letter by emailing to jobs@illinoisheartland.org.

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Please note: IHLS provides this job board as a free service to advertise library-related job openings for the central and southern Illinois library community. IHLS does not review these postings for content or legal compliance; that responsibility lies with the organization submitting the job posting.
  • Librarian

    Employment Type: Full-time

    Library/Organization Name: St. Teresa High School

    Job Description: Perform general Library duties with teaching of research techniques

  • Delivery & Facilities Director

    Employment Type: Full-time

    Library/Organization Name: Illinois Heartland Library System

    Job Description: The Delivery & Facilities Director is responsible for managing staff and responsible for activities associated with all aspects of the delivery operations and directs the design, planning, construction, and maintenance of IHLS facilities and leased properties. The Delivery & Facilities Director oversees the functioning of all building systems including mechanical, electrical, fire/life safety, plumbing, and waste management. Oversees the maintenance of delivery and company vehicles negotiates vehicle contracts and repairs.

    As part of the Operations Team, you will:

    • Oversee the general delivery operations to include staff, the development of routes, and delivery schedules.
    • Oversee the maintenance and repairs of facilities, mechanical equipment, and vehicles.
    • Recommend policies for the delivery operation and facilities maintenance and repair.
    • Oversee construction and renovation projects to improve efficiency and to ensure that facilities meet environmental, health, and security standards, and comply with government regulations.
    • Establish and implement departmental goals, objectives, and procedures.
    • Develop and monitor processes to ensure accurate statistical and empirical delivery data.
    • Support the Executive Director in the sale and lease of the properties.
    • Actively participate in the IHLS Leadership Team to assist in planning the goals and direction of the Illinois Heartland Library System.
    • Develop and monitor the budget for delivery and facilities to include capital needs.
    • Review financial information, activity reports, and other performance data to measure productivity and goal achievement and to determine areas needing cost reduction and/or program improvement.
    • Negotiate and recommend contracts with equipment and service suppliers and monitor contract fulfillment.

    Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:

    • Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources concepts, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
    • Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer services in a library environment. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
    • Ability to use logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
    • Ability to understand manual and the electronic development of transportation routes.
    • Ability to plan, administer and control budgets for contracts, equipment, and supplies.
    • Ability to analyze internal processes and recommend and implement procedural changes to improve operations.
    • Ability to develop, monitor, and interpret statistical information.

  • Cataloger

    Employment Type: Full-time

    Library/Organization Name: Illinois Heartland Library System (Champaign Hub)

    Job Description: In this position, the Cataloger will perform original and copy cataloging, database maintenance, authority control, and provide training and support for libraries. This position also resolves cataloging problems and aids in database maintenance. The successful candidate should have the following skills:
    • Good working knowledge of the principles and procedures of professional library work, including methods, practices, and techniques of library cataloging and classification.
    • Excellent knowledge of computerized cataloging.
    • Excellent knowledge of standard bibliographic sources and verification tools.
    • Good knowledge of professional library theories, issues, and trends.
    • Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effectiveness.

  • Program Coordinator

    Employment Type: Full-time

    Library/Organization Name: Mississippi Valley Library District

    Job Description: The Mississippi Valley Library District (MVLD) seeks a full-time, committed, and experienced Program Coordinator. The ideal candidate will be able to work and communicate effectively with library staff and community members, manage multiple concurrent tasks, and provide the highest level of service to the Collinsville and Fairmont City communities. Primary responsibilities include planning and implementing engaging events for adults, teens, and tweens as well as providing services at service points.

  • Library Director

    Employment Type: Full-time

    Library/Organization Name: Chester Public Library

    Job Description: Serves as administrator of all library and library related activities and services in accordance with policies established by the Library Board of Trustees. Areas of management include financial administration, personnel administration, planning, development and supervision of services and facilities, and community and interlibrary relations. Responsible for the interpretation of goals, objectives, and policies of the library in light of changing community needs, and to initiate changes in library functions to meet these needs. Shall ultimately be responsible for all functions and services of the library.

  • Full-Time Courier

    Employment Type: Full-time

    Library/Organization Name: Illinois Heartland Library System

    Job Description: IHLS is seeking a customer-service-driven delivery driver for our Edwardsville hub location. This position is vital in providing exceptional service to the library communities that we serve. The position is full-time, and scheduled to work 40 hours a week, at times filling in for a night shift as needed. These positions sort and deliver books and other library materials to and from member libraries. Courier Driver services are provided Mondays through Fridays.

    Day Shift: Day hours would be approximately 5:30 a.m.-2 p.m. (Paid at $15/hour). Night Shift: Night Shift hours would be around 4:30pm-1:00am (includes a 15% shift differential making the hourly rate $17.25). The night driving would consist of delivery to our Champaign, Ill., hub location.

    Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
    • Ability to work independently.
    • Ability to sort books and library materials based on established location codes.
    • Ability to frequently lift tubs of books and other library materials.
    • Ability to drive daily on established routes and follow established laws and safe driving procedures.
    • Ability to assume responsibility for entering unattended delivery sites using an alarm or key.
    • Excellent oral communication skills for the purposes of conveying information and instructing others while maintaining a strong customer service focus.
    • Display a professional business attitude with a pleasant demeanor while working in a customer service-oriented organization.
    • Knowledge of how to use a personal computer and basic knowledge of Microsoft Office programs. Must be able to check email regularly.

    Working Conditions:
    Most of the work is performed driving a van and assisting in the delivery and pick up of library materials. Occasionally may encounter rain, snow, or ice. Sorting and loading of library materials may occur indoors and outdoors.

    Physical Requirements:
    This position requires extensive periods of sitting while driving up to 400 miles daily. It also requires repetitive use of arms and legs and moving the whole body, including standing, climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, reaching, pushing, grasping, hearing, and talking.
    Requires the ability to exert up to 40 pounds of force occasionally to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including but not limited to tubs of books and other library materials.
    Clarity of vision at 20 inches or less with the ability to adjust the eye to bring objects into sharp focus as well as clarity of vision at 20. Must have the ability to drive in day and night driving conditions.


  • Library Assistant 2 - Safety

    Employment Type: Full-time

    Library/Organization Name: The Urbana Free Library

    Job Description: Library Assistant 2 - Safety – Full-Time

    Do you want to work where you can enrich the lives of the people in your community? The Urbana Free Library seeks a service-oriented and self-motivated individual for its Library Assistant 2 – Safety position. Safety duties include engaging with patrons and staff, deescalating behavioral disruptions, and responding to emergencies. This individual will work at the Library’s service desks, providing excellent information and notary service to patrons. The ideal candidate should have experience in public service or safety and a demonstrated history of successfully navigating complex social situations. If you are a friendly, energetic, and dependable person who would enjoy working in a community-centered environment, the Library invites you to apply.

  • Library Executive Director

    Employment Type: Full-time

    Library/Organization Name: Cary Area Public Library District

    Job Description: Nature of Responsibility:

    Serves as the administrator of the Cary Area Library District (CAPLD) overseeing, supervising, and leading library activities and services in accordance with policies established by the Library Board of Trustees. The executive director ensures that staff provide courteous and friendly service to internal and external customers of the community. Areas of management include financial administration, personnel administration, planning, development and supervision of services and facilities, and community and interlibrary relations. Responsible for the interpretation of goals, objectives, and policies of the library considering changing community & technology needs, and initiates changes in library functions to meet these needs.



    Duties and Responsibilities (Illustrative, not exhaustive):

    The executive director shall ultimately be responsible for all functions and services of the library. The ideal candidate must:
    • Have the ability to work effectively with library staff and the public.
    • Have the ability to communicate clearly, both in writing and orally.
    • Assist in promoting a safe working environment.
    • Observe facility opening and closing procedures as required.
    • Be available evenings and weekend hours as needed.

    Under the supervision of the Library Board of Trustees, the Library Director oversees all operations of the library including:

    • Establish and meet annual goals to achieve the library’s mission.
    • Supervise library operations and staff.
    • Provide leadership to library management and staff.
    • Develop a vision and strategic plan for the library and assist the Board of Trustees as needed.
    • Acquire, maintain, and supervise an adequate staff to carry out the services of the library.
    • Attend all Board and committee meetings.
    • Represents the library at programs, meetings, and events; maintains an active professional role in networking with libraries, schools, governmental bodies, chamber of commerce and community organizations.
    • Keep the Board of Trustees informed about issues, needs, and operation of the library.
    • Ascertain that the best books, software technology, and other library materials are selected and purchased to meet the needs of the community.
    • Offer direction to board. Make appropriate recommendations based on thorough study and analysis.
    • Carry out library policy as adopted by the board.
    • Prepare an annual budget for the library in consultation with the board.
    • Oversees financial operations of the Library and regularly reports on the financial condition of the Library to the Board.
    • Administer budget effectively, keeping expenditures within board approved appropriations.
    • Advocate for local, state, and national library legislation.
    • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with other governmental and community agencies.
    • Maintain an effective public relations program.
    • Preside over the library safety committee as the committee chair.
    • Comply with IRMA (Intergovernmental Risk Management Agency) guidelines and practices
    • Keep informed of trends in library services and technology; Implement new ideas when relevant.
    • Perform related duties as required and assigned.

  • Librarian (Tenure-track faculty)

    Employment Type: Full-time

    Library/Organization Name: Lake Land College Library

    Job Description: Full-time, Tenure Track, 12-MONTH Faculty position at Lake Land College. Responsible for providing reference, instructional, and information services to students, faculty, staff, and the public. This position requires a minimum of a Master's degree from an ALA-Accredited Library Program or the equivalent. Previous experience with instruction and reference services in an academic library setting strongly preferred. Review of applications will begin June 1. Start date: 8/18/23. Apply online at www.lakelandcollege.edu with application, cover letter, resume/CV, and transcripts. For questions, contact Sarah Hill, Director of Library Services, shill@lakelandcollege.edu. EOE/AA

    Position Summary: Reporting to the Director of Library Services, the Librarian provides reference, instructional, and information services for students, faculty, staff, and the public.

    Job Description: Essential Functions
    • Plan, conduct, and publicize activities to improve information fluency skills across the College curricula;
    • Provide library instruction to faculty, staff, and students, including on-site, online, and at remote locations;
    • Work with other College personnel as appropriate to improve the deployment and incorporation of instructional resources into course offerings;
    • Assist library users with research and information needs;
    • Participate in institutional and library assessment activities to improve services and resources;
    • Create online and print instructional aids / guides for library resources;
    • In cooperation with the Director and faculty, evaluate and select items for the library collection in all appropriate formats;
    • Maintain library holdings and statistical records in online databases;
    • Work with Cataloging staff to help maintain library catalog records to improve accessibility of the collection;
    • In conjunction with the Director of Library Services, develop and evaluate policies relating to library resources and services;
    • Represent the Library and institution at local, regional, and national conferences as appropriate;
    • Participate in training of Library staff as appropriate;
    • Plan and supervise displays and exhibits in the library;
    • Participate in College committees and task forces;
    • Perform other related duties as assigned

  • Programming Librarian

    Employment Type: Part-time

    Library/Organization Name: Newman Regional Library District

    Job Description: Job Summary
    The Programming Librarian will be primarily responsible for organizing fun and educational events for patrons of all ages with a focus on youth events. In addition, the Programming Librarian will provide excellent customer service and assist the librarian in the smooth running of the library during all open hours, including performing responsible and varied clerical work in circulation, interlibrary loan, materials processing and shelf maintenance, and assisting patrons in finding information and using library services and facilities.

    Principle Responsibilities and Duties
    Provides a minimum of one program per month (with a focus on children’s programs) and assists with Summer Reading Program.
    Helps establish and maintain a high customer service performance standard.
    Opens and closes the library. Turns on or off computers, lights, heating or air conditioning.
    Performs full range of circulation desk duties including issuing library cards, checking materials in and out, reserving books, cash handling duties, and answering the phone.
    Advises patrons about library materials and computers and oversees appropriate use of the facility.
    Responds to requests for information from patrons in the library, through email and by phone or refers inquiries to librarian.
    Assists in training and supervising volunteers.
    Manages the library collection by culling outdated, unused and damaged items, keeping shelves properly organized, recommending purchases based on reader's interests and requests.
    Oversees Interlibrary Loan program including ordering, sending and receiving materials.
    Registers participants in library programming including accepting and recording payment.
    Assists in compiling data on library visitation and circulation for quarterly reports.
    Assists in maintaining a clean and safe environment for materials and patrons.

    Additional Duties
    Assumes responsibility of daily library operations in absence of librarian.
    Has knowledge of upcoming adult and children’s programs other events.
    Performs special duties as assigned.
    Attends trainings and occasional meetings.

  • Technology and Business Librarian

    Employment Type: Full-time

    Library/Organization Name: Normal Public Library

    Job Description: Normal Public Library seeks an experienced, innovative, collaborative librarian to join a team dedicated to providing excellent services, collections, and programs to all in our community. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

    This position is responsible for developing and coordinating business-related programs, including seminars, roundtables, and guest speakers. This position is also responsible for providing specialized business and technology reference assistance to individuals and training staff to use business-related and technology resources, as well as assessing related current and emerging resources for the library’s digital and physical collections.

    Community engagement is a necessary component of this position. This position requires initiative and the ability to build partnerships with local experts, organizations, and groups, execute programming, and recruit speakers. This position also regularly assists patrons at our public service desks with general information, reference questions, and helps patrons use library technology and personal electronic devices. This position regularly includes “Librarian in Charge” status of the library, mostly during evening and weekend shifts.

    Schedule will vary and will include evening and weekend hours. This position works one evening each week and weekend days on rotation.

    Duties/Essential Job Functions
    Develop, implement, and evaluate business and technology related programming including guest speakers

    Develop and expand library’s holding of business and technology-related print and digital resources

    Conduct outreach to educate public and raise awareness of business and technology resources, programs, and services at the library

    Build partnerships with relevant community leaders, businesses, organizations, and groups

    Utilize a train the trainer methodology to ensure that staff understand and are able to use library resources to assist patrons with business and technology needs

    Maintain current awareness of developments in technology as they relate to libraries and library users

    Assist patrons in their use of library technology and personal devices

    Assist and advise patrons with their use of library resources, including books, movies, music, media, and digital resources

    Answer informational and reference questions for patrons on service desks, phones, and by email

    Attend and participate in professional activities, conferences, and committees, including on-site and virtual professional development opportunities and training

    Attend and participate in relevant community events, fairs, and gatherings on behalf of the library

    Assist with monitoring and correcting patron behavior to ensure a safe and welcoming environment

    Serve as “Librarian in Charge” of library, mostly during evening and weekend shifts. Duties may include making decisions regarding staffing, difficult customer interactions, evacuation due to inclement weather or other safety concerns



    Required Knowledge, Skill and Abilities
    Masters of Library Science degree from an ALA accredited library education program

    Minimum 3 years library experience in a public-facing role

    Demonstrated understanding and appreciation of diversity and the importance of inclusion as shown by a commitment to apply and incorporate the differences, complexities, and opportunities that diversity brings to an organization

    Commitment to public service

    Able to communicate exceptionally well with patrons and staff

    Aptitude to utilize, explain, and demonstrate use of traditional and emerging technologies

    Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills

    Flexibility to adapt to changing situations and varied work schedules

    Proven ability to lead via creativity, drive, flexibility, and a positive attitude

    Proven ability, experience, and willingness to shape initiatives, programs, and services based on changing community needs

    Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record/history Required schedule includes days, evenings, weekends, and special events.

    Required schedule includes days, evenings, weekends, and special events.

  • Circulation and Cataloging Clerk

    Employment Type: Full-time

    Library/Organization Name: Tri-Township Public Library District

    Job Description: The Tri-Township Public Library is looking for an enthusiastic full time team player to perform a variety of duties both within Circulation and Cataloging.

    The ideal candidate would split their time between working the circulation desk by providing library material and services to the library’s patrons and cataloging the library’s materials as well as editing, deleting and preparing library records and items for use by the library’s patrons.


    Primary Duties:

    (Circulation Desk Duties)

    • General circulation desk duties; checks in and out library materials; collects fines and fees; issues and updates
    • Assists patrons in the location, selection, selection and use of library materials; provides reference guidance and customer services; answers telephone inquiries; provides general information and assists patrons as needed.
    • Assists patrons in the use of library equipment, i.e. computer use, photocopiers, fax machines, etc.
    • Performs a variety of miscellaneous duties such as scheduling the use of meeting rooms, setting up and taking down equipment, chairs and tables for meetings and events; setting up audio visual equipment as needed, and completing general library errands as needed.
    • Empties book drop on a regular basis.

    (Cataloging Duties)

    • Perform original and copy cataloging based on current standards, database maintenance, and authority control. Applies Resources Description and Access, Library of Congress subject heading policies, LCGFT genre heading policies, Dewy decimal classification, and MARC 21 formats, and OCLC connexion.
    • Create or edit bibliographic records in OCLC and exported into Polaris database, or edit record in Polaris when needed.
    • Create or edit item records that appear in the Polaris and IHL systems.
    • Assign call numbers to each library item according to national standards and Tri-Township Public Library Practices.
    • Prepare labels and attaching them to all library materials.
    • Recheck item record after creation for quality assurance, and check item in, put on the appropriate shelf, or put on hold for a patron.
    • Attend professional development meetings, workshop, conferences and seminars for continuing education.
    • Maintain 15 hours of continuing education related to cataloging through Illinois Heartland Library System (IHLS)


    Other Duties:

    • Create Monthly Reports to determine which items should be taken off owning library use only; as well as determine which item is ready to move into the general collection.
    • Book and Audiobook ordering. The position is required to order all adult fiction, adult large print and fiction audiobooks.
    • Other Duties as assigned.