2000 Malibu turning over but not starting

My 2000 Malibu will turn over but not start. The gauges on the dash will not even come
on. As I tried and tried to crank it. I noticed one time that the gauges did not start
working and it did not start, but went dead a few seconds later. I can jiggle the key
around and get the car to crank, and sometimes drive for miles, and sometimes within
1/2 block the car will die in the middle of the road. Also the key is hard to get outta
ignition. I have to pull the key a hair and turn off and pull out in one motion for it to
release. So, I am thinking that it has to be the ignition switch. ??? I have a mechanic
that says he can fix it, but my brother (that works for GM dealership) says that only a
dealer can fix it because of anti-theft security system and such. I need your help. Can
a mechanic not at a dealership fix this (he says no problem)? Do you think it is the
ignition switch?