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Local Library Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

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Local Library information

See New York salary details

$33.9K

$71.3K

$112.1K

How much do local library jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for local library in New York is $71,324.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,300.00 and $82,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are local libraries?

Local libraries are community-based institutions that provide access to a wide range of books, digital resources, and other educational materials. They offer services such as lending books, providing internet access, hosting events, and supporting literacy and lifelong learning for people of all ages. Local libraries are typically funded by local government and are free or low-cost to use, making them an important resource for education and community engagement.

How to get a job in local library?

To get a job in a local library, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require a relevant degree or library science certification. Applying through the library's official website or in person, demonstrating good organizational and communication skills, and volunteering can improve chances of employment. Positions may include librarian, library assistant, or clerk, each with specific qualification requirements.

How difficult is it to get a job as a librarian?

Getting a job as a librarian typically requires a master's degree in library science or information studies and relevant experience. Competition can be moderate, and strong organizational, research, and technology skills improve chances of employment in libraries or information centers.

What is the difference between Local Library vs Public Librarian?

AspectLocal LibraryPublic Librarian
CredentialsLibrary degree or certificationLibrary degree or certification
Work EnvironmentCommunity libraries, schools, or private institutionsPublic libraries, community centers
Employer & IndustryLocal government, educational institutionsMunicipal government, public sector
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding library roles, services, or locationsCareer info, job roles, or qualifications in public libraries

While both roles involve working in libraries, a Local Library refers to the physical library location or institution, whereas a Public Librarian is a professional who manages library services in public libraries. The Public Librarian typically holds similar credentials but focuses on providing community services, programs, and information access.

Can you get hired at a library with no experience?

Library positions such as library assistants or clerks often do not require prior experience, though strong communication skills and a willingness to learn are important. Entry-level roles may provide on-the-job training, making it possible to get hired without previous experience in a library setting.

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

To excel as a Local Librarian, you need a solid understanding of information management, cataloging, and library science, often backed by a degree in library science or a related field. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital databases, and cataloging tools like MARC is typically required. Outstanding customer service, communication, and organizational skills help librarians engage with patrons and support diverse community needs. These combined skills ensure efficient resource management, improved access to information, and a welcoming environment for all library users.

Can you work at a library without being a librarian?

Yes, many library jobs do not require a librarian certification and include roles such as library assistants, clerks, or technicians. These positions often involve tasks like shelving, checking out materials, and helping patrons, and may require customer service skills and familiarity with library systems. Certification is typically not necessary for these support roles.

What are some common challenges faced by staff working in a local library, and how can they be addressed?

Staff working in a local library often face challenges such as managing a diverse patron base, adapting to new technologies, and balancing multiple responsibilities like customer service, cataloging, and event coordination. Addressing these challenges involves strong communication skills, ongoing professional development, and collaboration with colleagues to share best practices. Many libraries also offer training sessions and encourage teamwork to create a supportive environment and ensure staff can effectively meet community needs.
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 are popular job titles related to Local Library jobs in New York? For Local Library jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Local Library jobs in New York look for? The top searched job categories for Local Library jobs in New York are:
What cities in New York are hiring for Local Library jobs? Cities in New York with the most Local Library job openings:
Local Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Local Library job openings in New York as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Part Time, and 33% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,324 per year, or $34.3 per hour.
Library Information Assistant - Melrose Library

Library Information Assistant - Melrose Library

The New York Public Library

New York, NY

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

New York Public Library rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description
Overview
The New York Public Library (NYPL) has been an essential provider of free books, information, ideas, and education for all New Yorkers for more than 100 years. NYPL’s neighborhood libraries in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island—many of which date to Andrew Carnegie’s visionary philanthropy at the turn of the 20th century—are being transformed into true centers of educational innovation and service, and vital community hubs that provide far more than just free books and materials.  

The Library is seeking a Library Information Assistant to provide service to patrons of all ages.  Information Assistants are responsible for assisting with information queries, providing circulation services, and supporting the outreach and programming activities of the Library. They should be a creative customer service expert with a passion for helping people explore resources in ways that allow them to follow their interests and discover new ones.
Key Responsibilities
Under the general supervision of the Library Manager, a Library Information Assistant:
  • Provides circulation/reference service and instruction to library patrons of all ages using print, media and digital resources
  • Answers questions from the public in person, over the telephone and electronically
  • Performs community outreach to promote and increase public participation and use of library services
  • Assists in planning and delivering library programs for children, teens and/or adults
  • Instructs patrons on the use of the Internet, computer applications and other Library services
  • Assists with fines & fees management, collection development/weeding, reserves and opening/closing procedures
  • Ensures patrons follow library policies and procedures
  • May take responsibility for the facility, staff and operations in the absence of the Library Manager
  • Performs other related duties as required

Required Education, Experience & Skills
Required Education & Experience
  • Bachelor’s degree required, preferably with a strong, well-rounded liberal arts background
Required Skills 
  • Successfully demonstrated public service experience with the ability to work well with a diverse patronage
  • Demonstrated interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills
  • Successfully demonstrated ability to work as part of a team
  • Appreciation of literature and desire to encourage reading in others
  • Strong organization and planning skills, including the ability to perform multiple projects or tasks simultaneously
  • Strong computer and other related technology skills, including MS Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Google applications, PCs, Macs and e-reader devices
  • Demonstrated knowledge of computer services including on-line searching, social media and reference resources and databases
  • Preferred language: Spanish
Managerial/Supervisory Responsibilities: 
  • May temporarily oversee the library in the absence of the Library Manager

Preferred Qualifications
Experience creating, conducting and/or participating in community training, programming and outreach preferred

More
Our 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
  • Public service library
Physical Duties:
  • Lifting up to 15 lbs.
  • Sitting and standing for periods of time
  • Daily use of a computer
Physical Required?
No
Union/Non Union
Local 1930
FLSA Status
Non-Exempt
Schedule
35 hours per week to be scheduled during branch hours
This job description represents the types and levels of responsibilities that will be required of the position and shall not be construed as a declaration of all of the specific duties and responsibilities for the role. Job duties may change if Library priorities change. Employees may be directed to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description as needed.
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

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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

View All New York Public Library Jobs