1

Library Temp Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Librarian

Cranford, NJ · On-site

$32/hr

... Regular,Temporary, or Grant Regular General Description The Part-time Librarian fosters a ... Experience • Academic Library experience strongly preferred. Competencies and Skills Required • ...

... public libraries, retail, and online, and with a global reach into more than 135 countries ... Temporary Job Family Group: Temp Employee Location Region/State: New York Compensation Range:

... public libraries, retail, and online, and with a global reach into more than 135 countries ... Temporary Job Family Group: Temp Employee Location Region/State: New York Compensation Range:

next page

Showing results 1-20

Library Temp information

What is a library temp?

Library temps, or temporary library workers, are individuals hired on a short-term basis to assist with various tasks in a library. They may help with shelving books, checking materials in and out, assisting patrons, processing new materials, or supporting library events and programs. Library temps are often brought in to cover staff absences, support busy periods, or help with special projects. While they may not have the same responsibilities as permanent staff, they play an important role in keeping library operations running smoothly.

What are the typical responsibilities and challenges faced by a library temp during a busy semester?

As a Library Temp, you can expect to handle tasks such as shelving books, assisting patrons with locating resources, processing new materials, and supporting circulation desk operations. During busy semesters, you may also help manage study room reservations, answer basic research queries, and support special events. The primary challenges include adapting quickly to different workflows, handling multiple tasks efficiently, and learning library catalog systems in a short time. Strong communication skills and a customer-focused approach will help you succeed in this dynamic environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a library temp, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Temp, you generally need organizational skills, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of library systems, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant experience. Familiarity with library cataloging software, circulation systems, and office equipment is typically required. Strong customer service, communication, and adaptability help you assist patrons and adjust to varying tasks. These skills ensure efficient library operations and positive patron experiences during temporary assignments.

What is the difference between Library Temp vs Library Assistant?

AspectLibrary TempLibrary Assistant
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require basic library trainingHigh school diploma; some roles may prefer library science coursework
Work EnvironmentTemporary library settings, often short-term assignmentsPermanent or long-term library environments, including public, academic, or special libraries
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by staffing agencies and libraries for short-term coverageEmployed directly by libraries for ongoing support roles
Search & Comparison IntentPeople looking for temporary library work or short-term positionsIndividuals seeking permanent or long-term library support roles

The main difference between a Library Temp and a Library Assistant is the employment duration and job stability. Library Temps typically work short-term assignments through staffing agencies, while Library Assistants are usually employed directly by libraries for ongoing roles. Both roles may require similar credentials, but their work environments and employment terms differ significantly.

Can you get hired at a library temp with no experience?

Library temp positions often do not require prior experience, as they typically focus on general administrative tasks, shelving, and customer service. Employers may prefer candidates with basic organizational skills and a willingness to learn, and some roles provide on-the-job training. Having familiarity with library systems or tools can be helpful but is not always necessary for entry-level temporary roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in New York?

The most popular types of Library jobs in New York are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Library Temp job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Hybrid job distribution.

Library Page - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building / Exhibitions Department

The New York Public Library

New York, NY

$17/hr

Part-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


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

Library Page positions are educational opportunities for candidates who are currently enrolled as students in an accredited educational program.
 
Job Summary

A part-time Exhibitions page position is available. The incumbent will work with the Curatorial Associate to assist with the development and production of temporary exhibitions and displays by providing project-related administrative support across the Exhibitions department.

The New York Public Library has been an essential provider of free books, information, ideas, education, and exhibitions for all New Yorkers for more than 100 years. The Exhibitions department at the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building develops, organizes, and executes all aspects of the presentation of exhibitions and displays within the building's galleries and public spaces. Exhibitions reflect the breadth of NYPL's extraordinary holdings of over 46 million items and also provide an important platform for the public to access Library collections. 

For those considering a career in libraries or museums, the Exhibition page position will provide important experience working in an exhibition program that presents and interprets special collections. We are looking for creative candidates who demonstrate a strong work ethic, are reliable, and possess excellent written and verbal communications skills. 
You will have access to the Library Page Fellowship Program as a Library Page. A career growth development program that empowers youth as they shape their careers. The Program provides resources to help develop career readiness skills, explore career goals, and provide on-the-job coaching, training, and mentorship.

The library page position is scheduled for 19 hours per week including Saturdays. Schedules are variable based on library needs and may be subject to change.
  • Provides support to the Exhibitions Dept. staff in the development and production of temporary exhibitions and displays
  • Assists with creation of and content entry for exhibition websites and other digital platforms
  • Organizes and maintains filing systems for digital assets and files related to exhibition development
  • Assists exhibition team during installation of exhibitions
  • Create a filing system for the Exhibition team's files, which includes documentation of ~30 years of exhibitions at The New York Public Library
  • Performs other related tasks as needed
Required Education and Certifications 
  • Page Positions are reserved for candidates who are currently enrolled as students in a degree program/accredited school. (High School, GED Program, Associate's Degree, Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree, etc). Preferably with a focus in art history, museum studies, history, or English literature
  • Proper employment certificate for minors under 18 as required by NYS law
Required Skills 
  • Knowledge of PC and Mac environments, Google Suite, and Adobe Acrobat
  • Proficiency with spreadsheets and applications such as Google Sheets and Microsoft Excel
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to follow detailed instruction in a fast-paced environment
  • Familiarity with basic copyediting
  • Superb interpersonal and communication skills
  • Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team
  • Keen attention to detail and accuracy
  • Demonstrated reliability and professionalism
Preferred Qualifications
  • Knowledge of Adobe Photoshop preferred
NYPL 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
  • Office setting
  • Public library setting
  • Exhibition galleries (occasionally during construction and installation) 
  • Some work in special collections areas

Physical Duties
  • Moderate lifting may be required (up to 25 lbs)

Pre-Placement Physical Required? 
No

Schedule 
The Exhibitions page position is scheduled for 19 hours per week, Monday through Friday.  Schedules are variable based on library needs and may be subject to change.
The New York Public Library Salary Statement
At the Library, we believe that pay transparency and pay equity are important to ensuring we source the best candidates and keep the best employees. When making a determination as to the appropriate salary for a candidate, we consider a variety of factors such, including, but not limited to, the position requirements, the skills, prior experience, and educational background required or preferred for the job, the scope and impact of the role within the organization, internal peer equity, and the candidate's specific training, experience, education level, and skills. No single factor is conclusive; the Library reserves the right to consider any and all relevant factors and make a decision consistent with its policies.

Union Salaries are determined by collective bargaining agreement(s).

What New York Public Library employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


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