Working at NYPL: Frequently Asked Questions

We hope that you don't encounter any issues with our online application. If, however, you do have trouble, these frequently asked questions should help you navigate the application process. Good luck!


 

How do I contact the HR Department regarding my application?

Due to the high volume of applications the Library receives, the HR Department is unable to answer individual inquiries. 

NYPL's online application process is hosted by Pinpoint, a leading provider of applicant tracking systems. 

How do I check the status of my application?

Our HR team does not have the capacity to field candidate calls, so any updates regarding application status will be communicated via email or through our careers portal.

How long does it take for an application to be reviewed?

This time varies per role and the volume of applications that we receive at any given time. We receive a high volume of applications for most positions and while our recruiting team reviews applications as quickly as we can, it may take some time to get through them all. If a recruiter determines that you meet the qualifications for the role, they will contact you to set up an interview. Otherwise, you will receive notification via the careers portal or email that you are no longer in consideration. Our HR team does not have the capacity to field candidate calls.

How do I apply for a job?

To apply for a job, please visit the Careers at NYPL page to view all opportunities at NYPL. You will be able to apply filters to narrow your search to positions that match your skill set or location preferences. In order to be considered for any position, you must complete an application that includes a resume and/or cover letter. You must also answer any screening questions associated with the job.

How is my application being screened?

Our team of recruiters screens through applications and resumes to identify the candidates that we feel best meet the qualifications of the role. That's right, actual humans are reading your resume! So please make sure you submit a resume that best reflects your skills and expertise as they relate to the position you are interested in.

Who should I address my cover letter to?

Since there are several recruiters screening applications, it is best if you address your cover letter generally. Please feel free to include "To Whom It May Concern" or "Hiring Manager" in your cover letter.

What jobs/positions are available at NYPL?

NYPL has positions in a wide range of areas. Our opportunities include full time, part time and hourly positions in both public facing and behind the scenes roles. For a full listing of positions available at NYPL, please visit the Careers at NYPL page to view and apply for any opportunities at the Library.

There are multiple listings for the job that I want - should I apply to all of them or just one?

NYPL has several career opportunities that exist in multiple locations. We post each position separately because our locations range from the northernmost part of the Bronx to the southern tip of Staten Island. We recommend that you apply to any and all locations that you are interested in to ensure that your application gets in front of the right recruiter. If you apply for only one location, we may also consider you for other locations and will reach out if we are interested in speaking with you further.

I don't see an opportunity that is a good match or that I am interested in. Can I still submit an application to The New York Public Library?

At this time, we invite candidates to apply for specific positions. If you do not currently see a position that meets your interests, you can click “Register Interest” at the bottom of our Careers Page. 

What opportunities do you have for students?

Students are eligible to apply for any open position that matches their experience. In particular, the Library Page Program is designed specifically for students currently enrolled in a degree program of any level. The Library Page positions are entry level hourly positions typically scheduled for 14-19 hours per week.

Does the Library host internships?

NYPL does host a limited number of internships each semester. These opportunities will be posted on our website along with work opportunities, so please visit the Careers at NYPL page, limit your search by the category "intern opportunities" and apply as directed.

Does NYPL sponsor visas for international candidates?

We encourage anyone to apply for positions posted on our website. Potential visa sponsorship is dependent upon the job and the candidate pool for the position.

What benefits do you offer your employees?

Please visit Working at NYPL to see the many benefits the Library offers.

I am interested in working for The New York Public Library. Where are your locations?

The New York Public Library has locations throughout Manhattan, Staten Island, and the Bronx, and a service center in Long Island City. Please visit the Location and Hours page on www.nypl.org to see a full listing of all of our locations.

Is The New York Public Library an Equal Opportunity Employer?

All applicants and employees are considered and evaluated for positions without regard to race, color, sex, gender (including gender identity and expression), pregnancy, religion, creed, national origin, age, alienage and citizenship, status as a perceived or actual victim of domestic violence, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military status, partnership status, genetic predisposition or carrier status, arrest or conviction record, or any other legally protected status. This policy applies to all personnel decisions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, and promotion.


Learn more about careers at NYPL.