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Bookish Shop Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bookish Shop information

See salary details

$8

$16

$27

How much do bookish shop jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for bookish shop in the United States is $16.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Bookish Shop vs Bookstore Manager?

AspectBookish ShopBookstore Manager
CredentialsTypically no formal certifications required; knowledge of books and salesOften requires a degree in business, retail management, or related field
Work EnvironmentSmall retail setting, often family-owned or independentLarge retail stores or chains, overseeing staff and operations
Industry UsageUsed in small shops, online stores, or specialty book outletsCommonly used in larger retail chains and bookstores
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding small retail book sales or online book shopsManaging bookstore operations and staff

The main difference is that a Bookish Shop refers to a small or specialty book retail business, often run independently, while a Bookstore Manager is a professional responsible for overseeing larger bookstore operations, staff, and sales management. Both roles involve knowledge of books and customer service, but the scope and environment differ significantly.

What cities are hiring for Bookish Shop jobs? Cities with the most Bookish Shop job openings:
Infographic showing various Bookish Shop job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 44% As Needed, 28% Contract, 25% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 33% Hybrid, and 67% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,588 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Retail Associate - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building (Part Time Seasonal)

The New York Public Library

New York, NY • On-site

$18.40/hr

Part-time

Medical

Posted 16 days ago


New York Public Library rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview
The New York Public Library is the nation's most extensive public library system. Within its landmark building on Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street, The Library shop serves hundreds of thousands of visitors a year with a collection of bookish items and books. Visit us at https://shop.nypl.org to see our operation's nature (but not the scope).

We are seeking a Seasonal Temporary Part-Time Retail Associate who functions as a cashier and is both the face and personality of the shop. Enthusiasm, product knowledge, and customer engagement also play a part in the performance, and recognizing when getting through the line should be the focus. Above all, this person finds no job too big ("Help me select gifts for my 11 grandchildren") or too small (wiping down computer screens or giving directions) not to attend to with good humor. This person should have a great visual memory and be curious to learn and share all the shop offers.

Accuracy and speed on a POS system are critical. A flexible schedule is preferred, as is speaking more than one language, although neither is necessary. Saturdays, however, are a must. 

If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, send us a note with your resume. Let us know what you're reading now and why you're especially suited to this position.
This position is seasonal.
 
Responsibilities: 
The Seasonal Part-Time Retail Associate reports to the Manager, The Library Shop
  • Engage customers with enthusiasm and product knowledge
  • Communicates effectively to customers as well as management
  • Utilizes a POS retail system with speed, efficiency and courtesy
  • Maintains inventory and restocks displays
  • Enjoys operating independently
  • Performs other related duties as assigned
Required Education and Certifications 
  • High School Diploma minimum

Required Experience 
  • Two plus years of sales experience, preferably in a busy museum/book/lifestyle shop 
  •  Operates the register and POS system as required 
  • One year minimum in retail environment handling cash 
  • Proven ability to work effectively and quickly in a hectic, fast-paced environment 
  • Experience working collaboratively within a team 
  • Excellent communication skills with a wide range of customers 

Required Skills 
  • Cash handling skills
  • Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills
  • Demonstrated reliability and flexibility
  • Quick Study; able to absorb quickly/clearly
  • Able to scan a room for product placement and traffic patterns
  • High energy
  • Thrives in a hectic environment

Managerial/Supervisory Responsibilities: 
  • N/A
null
Core Values
All team members are expected and encouraged to embody the NYPL Core Values:
  • Be Helpful to patrons and colleagues
  • Be Resourceful in solving problems 
  • Be Curious in all aspects of your work
  • Be Welcoming and Inclusive

Work Environment
  • The Library Shop (public setting) 

Physical Duties
  • Standing for most of your shift
  • Bending and lifting for restocking
  • May require travel within NYC
  • Lifting up to 20lbs

Pre-Placement Physical Required?
No
Union/Non Union
Non-Union
FLSA Status
Non-Exempt
Schedule
  • Saturday availability
  • Flexible schedule (15-25 hours week) 

What New York Public Library employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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New York Public Library logo

About New York Public Library

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The New York Public Library is a free provider of education and information for the people of New York and beyond. With 92 locations--including research and branch libraries--throughout the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island, the Library offers free materials, computer access, classes, exhibitions, programming and more to everyone from toddlers to scholars, and has seen record numbers of attendance and circulation in recent years. The New York Public Library serves more than 18 million patrons who come through its doors annually and millions more around the globe who use its resources at www.nypl.org.

Industry

Libraries and archives

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

1895