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Library Curator Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Brooklyn Public Library

Assistant Curator

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Overview The Center for Brooklyn History (CBH) at Brooklyn Public Library seeks a full-time, grant-funded Assistant Curator for three years to help develop a permanent, multi-floor exhibition ...

New

Theartgorgeous

Curator, Photographs

Manhattan, NY · On-site

... Library, Conservation, and Scientific Research employees. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES: * Lead, organize, catalog, and fully research all the works in The Walther Collection, with an initial ...

Metmuseum

Assistant Curator of African Art

New York, NY · On-site

As the Assistant Curator for African Art, you will contribute to the presentation, documentation ... Library, Conservation, and Scientific Research employees. An Associate level may also be considered ...

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Library Curator information

See New York salary details

$27.9K

$79.5K

$130.7K

How much do library curator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for library curator in New York is $79,456.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,700.00 and $102,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Library Curator, you need expertise in library science, archival management, and collection development, usually backed by a Master’s in Library Science or a related field. Familiarity with cataloging systems, digital asset management tools, and preservation techniques is typically required. Strong organization, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills help curators manage collections and engage with diverse audiences. These competencies ensure the effective preservation, accessibility, and promotion of valuable library materials.

How does a library curator typically collaborate with other departments or professionals within an institution?

Library Curators often work closely with archivists, librarians, educators, and IT specialists to develop collections, create engaging exhibitions, and improve public access to resources. Collaboration may involve coordinating special events, digitization projects, or educational programs that highlight the library’s unique materials. Curators also contribute to grant writing and policy-making discussions, ensuring the collection’s growth aligns with the institution’s mission and community needs. Effective teamwork and clear communication are essential, as curators frequently serve as a bridge between departments and external partners.

What is the difference between Library Curator vs Library Assistant?

AspectLibrary CuratorLibrary Assistant
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Library Science or related field; often a master's degreeHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may prefer associate's degree
Work EnvironmentMuseums, special collections, archives, or large librariesPublic, academic, or community libraries
Job ResponsibilitiesManaging collections, acquiring new items, curating exhibits, overseeing preservationAssisting patrons, shelving, checking out materials, clerical tasks

The main difference between a Library Curator and a Library Assistant lies in their responsibilities and qualifications. Curators focus on managing collections and exhibitions, requiring specialized education, while Assistants handle day-to-day patron services and clerical work. Both roles are essential in library operations but serve different functions within the library environment.

How do you become a library curator?

To become a library curator, candidates typically need a master's degree in library science or a related field and relevant experience in library or archival work. Strong organizational skills, knowledge of collection management, and familiarity with cataloging tools are also important for the role.

What does a library curator do in a library?

A library curator is responsible for selecting, acquiring, and maintaining collections of books, artifacts, or digital resources. They organize and preserve materials, often using cataloging systems and conservation techniques, to ensure accessibility and longevity of the collection.

What cities in New York are hiring for Library Curator jobs?

Cities in New York with the most Library Curator job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Curator job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,456 per year, or $38.2 per hour.

Assistant Curator

Manhattan, NY • On-site

Brooklyn Public Library
See more jobs at Brooklyn Public Libraryexternal

$70K - $80K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Overview

The Center for Brooklyn History (CBH) at Brooklyn Public Library seeks a full-time, grant-funded Assistant Curator for three years to help develop a permanent, multi-floor exhibition dedicated to Brooklyn’s history. Scheduled to open in 2028, the exhibition will explore Brooklyn’s evolving communities, its role in American history, and its cultural and economic contributions from past to present. A dedicated children’s section will offer interactive experiences for young visitors and support educational programs.

Responsibilities
  • Conceptual and narrative mapping
  • Drafting exhibition text
  • Conducting and summarizing primary- and secondary-source research
  • Assisting and advising throughout the exhibition design process
  • Consulting experts and key stakeholders
  • Object selection, curation, and storytelling
  • Participating in exhibition marketing and communication
  • Maintaining the exhibition object checklist
  • Managing project timeline
  • Coordinating and communicating with internal and external partners to ensure key deliverables are completed on time
  • Working within the exhibitions team to maintain and optimize communications and workflow within CBH departments
  • Helping to manage interns/part-time consultants working on the exhibition
  • Other management tasks as they arise
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in a related field required (history, public history, collections management, museum studies); Master’s degree strongly preferred
  • 3–5 years of experience with history exhibition curation
  • Demonstrated experience writing for public audiences (with samples)
  • Strong organizational and task management skills
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and with a team
  • Demonstrated research engagement with topics, events, and themes in Brooklyn history
  • Experience in marketing and communications and/or professional project management experience preferred
  • Record of published/peer-reviewed research preferred
Compensation and Employment Details

This is a temporary (2026–2029), full-time, benefits-eligible, non-union position. Salary range: $70,000–$80,000. This is a hybrid position with a minimum of 3 days on-site, with availability for additional events on some nights and weekends. The application should include a cover letter and resume.

About the Employer

Brooklyn Public Library is an equal opportunity employer. The organization is a large library system and a democratic public institution serving Brooklyn and beyond.

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