Description
Overview
The New York Public Library has been an essential provider of free books, information, ideas and education for all New Yorkers for more than 100 years. As a Research Experience Associate at The New York Public Library you will do that and much more.
The Research Experience Associate positions will staff the welcome desks in the magnificent McGraw Rotunda and Bill Blass Public Catalog Room at the Stephen A Schwarzman Building, greeting incoming researchers and individuals in need of a quiet space in the Rose Main Reading Room to read, study and think. These positions will interact with staff to help manage the flow of incoming traffic to ensure that the research environment is preserved for those who most need it and that tourists are made aware of the many opportunities to experience the library in the exhibitions, gift shop or on a guided tour of the building.
We are looking for candidates that demonstrate a strong work ethic, are reliable and possess excellent written and verbal communications skills. You will be expected to be an ambassador for the library, so a friendly demeanor goes a long way. The Research Experience Associate position is scheduled for 19 hours per week, including evenings and Saturdays. Schedules are variable based on library needs and may be subject to change.
Key Responsibilities
Under the direction of the Manager, Visitor Volunteer Program, the Research Experience Associate:
- Projects a positive and courteous attitude to the public by providing exceptional public service and assistance to researchers and the general public
- Provides general information and directions to researchers, answers basic questions about library operations and procedures, and make referrals to the appropriate place or person for assistance
- Checks in both researchers with advanced appointments and walk-in researchers and general space users
- Offers tourists ample guidance regarding entry and use policies for the reading rooms as well as how to experience the Schwarzman Building's many other offerings
- Works with colleagues to ensure the Bill Blass Public Catalog Room and Rose Main Reading Room maintain an environment conducive to research and public services
- Assist with reading room opening and closing procedures
- Performs other related tasks as needed
Required Education, Experience & Skills
- High school diploma required
- Excellent public service skills and the ability to work with a diverse patronage
- Strong organizational skills and ability to follow detailed instructions in a fast-paced environment
- Superb interpersonal and communication skills
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team
- Demonstrated reliability and professionalism
- Basic computer and basic technology skills such as Microsoft Office Suite and Google Applications
- A demonstrated interest in research and libraries preferred
- Ability to troubleshoot basic computer and printer issues preferred
- Experience with library technologies preferred
- Ability to speak foreign languages preferred
More...
Absent a qualifying exception for medical or religious reasons, newly hired employees of the New York Public Library must present proof of receipt of a COVID-19 vaccination and may not begin employment at the Library until 14 days after their receipt of their second dose of either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines or 14 days after their first dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Newly hired employees who need additional time to receive their vaccination prior to their start date may request an adjournment of their start date with their hiring manager. The Library will consider such requests on a case by case basis, depending upon the Library's operational needs, among other factors. The Library will further consider exemptions for prospective employees who cannot become vaccinated due to a qualifying medical condition or a sincerely held religious belief or practice. Candidates who receive a conditional offer of employment and who seek a medical or religious exemption to the Library's vaccination policy will be provided with additional instructions at the time of the conditional offer.
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
- Research Library
- Moderate lifting required (up to 25 lbs)
- Pushing book trucks
19 hours per week, including evenings and Saturdays 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.