At the New Haven Free Public Library, we pride ourselves on serving our local communities. If you are looking for a dynamic workplace that values creativity, problem solving, lifelong learning, and helping others achieve their goals, you may be a great addition to our team!

A Note on Diversity and Inclusion:
We serve a richly diverse community, including a significant Spanish-speaking population. We strongly encourage candidates fluent in both English and Spanish to apply.

Current Vacancies

Official postings of employment opportunities for the City of New Haven, including those for the New Haven Free Public Library, are available on the City’s job portal.

All applications must be submitted via the City’s job portal for consideration. Click here for more information on the the City of New Haven’s hiring procedures.

Pursuant to the Federal Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, The City of New Haven has a adopted a Drug Free Workplace Policy. The City of New Haven requires a pre-employment drug test, which includes screening for marijuana.

Click on the purple bars below to view current positions at the Library or Library Foundation.

Library

SUPERVISING LIBRARIAN (FULL TIME), Ives Squared | Within Local 3144 Range 9: $70,596 – $78,018 annualized

*This role requires a Masters degree in Library Science from a graduate program accredited by the American Library Association, 3-5 years of library experience, and at least 1 year of supervisory experience in any field.

About this Position

This role supervises the Ives Squared service area at the Ives Main Library, which includes a team of 3 full-time and 2 part-timer staff members. Ives Squared is a center for innovation and collaboration at the Ives Main Library that opened summer 2018. The space is designed to inspire and augment the vibrant civic and entrepreneurial culture of the New Haven community with the Tinker Lab, a makerspace; the Exchange, for co-working, entrepreneurship, and small business development; the Switchboard, for in-person questions and information; and a Café.

Primary Functions

This is professional library work in the supervision of a library service area or in the development and supervision of a specialized subject area such as literacy, computers, emerging technologies, digital navigation, audio-visual resources and services, and information services for businesses and entrepreneurs.

Work involves, depending upon the job within the class, responsibility for a subject area, responsibility for the supervision of a department. As a service area supervisor, the Supervising Librarian directs the day-to-day operations of the service area and serves as a coach, mentor, and mediator to staff.

Work is performed with latitude for professional judgment and is reviewed through meetings and evaluation of results, reporting to a higher-level Library Administrator (IV or above).

Typical Duties and Responsibilities
  • Develops goals, plans, programs, and services for a service area.
  • Manages, supervises, and participates in all daily service and support operations of the service area.
  • Oversees management and selection of print and non-print materials for a specified service area.
  • Prepares, monitors, and maintains programming budget for a service area.
  • Collaborates and engages with citizens and community agencies to maintain awareness of community needs.
  • Develops outreach and advertising materials within criteria set by communication department to create outreach opportunities and partnerships with local organizations and businesses.
  • Develops and delivers programs that promote use of the Library such as: book discussion clubs, author talks, writing groups, computer classes, tours, and community outreach like a read aloud class visit, attending a community management team meeting or other event created by or for the community.
  • Coaches, mentors, manages performance, and addresses service area staff concerns in a timely manner; guides and directs department staff on library services.
  • Represents the Library in community organizations relevant to the specialized area of service.
  • Works closely with other Supervising Librarians and Library management to assure services are responsive to patron and community needs.
  • Encourage ongoing professional development for staff training sessions and mentoring.
  • Ensures and enforces Library and City policies, procedures, and guidelines for staff and the public while ensuring compliance with all local, state and federal laws and regulations with appropriate guidance from library and city administrations.
  • Performs other related work as required.

Education, Qualifications, and Experience
  • Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of integrated Library Science.
  • Considerable knowledge of the objectives of Library service to the community.
  • Considerable knowledge in the required area of expertise, such as reference and bibliographic research, , emerging technologies, youth services for ages 0-18, and/or business information service.
  • Knowledge of emerging trends and technologies in Library and Information Science.
  • Demonstrated strong leadership and management skills in order to efficiently plan, organize, supervise, and manage the staff of a service area.
  • Ability to schedule and supervise the work of professional and support staff.
  • Ability to problem-solve issues related to patron concerns and library services.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with staff, other City departments, external partners, and the general public.
  • Ability to monitor progress and manage resources to accomplish objectives with strong organizational, research, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
  • Ability to demonstrate strong public relations and customer service skills and communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to make sound, independent judgments within established policies and procedures.
  • Proficiency with library related professional tools and software applications (MS Office, library catalog and digital databases).
  • Ability to understand and interpret library policies and objectives to community groups, public officials, business and education leaders, the staff and to the public.
  • Willingness to engage in regular technical training and the ability to remain current with emerging technologies.
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively and sensitively in a diverse community, recognizing and respecting cultural and socio-economic differences, and fostering an inclusive environment.

Terms of Employment

This is a Special Fund, “Non-Tested” position. Continued employment contingent upon availability of future funding. Funding may be terminated at any time.

This position is included in a collective bargaining agreement with Local 3144, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.

Bargaining agreements available to review HERE.

Special Funded employees shall not be covered by the City pension but shall continue to be covered by Social Security.

The City of New Haven does not sponsor employment visas. All applicants must have current authorization to work in the U.S. without employer-sponsored visa support.

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of: (1) a pre-employment background check,and  (2) a pre-employment drug screening in accordance with the City’s Drug Free Workplace Policy. Instructions and information on this pre-employment process are included in Conditional Offer of Employment.

Pursuant to the Federal Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, The City of New Haven has a adopted a Drug Free Workplace Policy. The City of New Haven requires a pre-employment drug test, which includes screening for marijuana.

LIBARY TECHNICAL ASSISTANT (FULL TIME, Tested Postition) | Within Local 884 Range 12: $55,598 – $56,949 annualized

This is technical work within the library system. The Library Technical Assistant performs responsible technical and paraprofessional work within the library system supporting acquisitions, cataloging, collection maintenance, database management, and public-facing technology services. The position also provides entry-level computer and digital literacy support to patrons and assists with daily circulation and processing operations. Work is performed under the supervision of a higher-level staff member and is reviewed through observation, conferences, and reports.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities

(Illustrative, not exhaustive)

  • Performs catalog maintenance in accordance with established standards.
  • Supports processing of new and existing library materials, including physical and digital resources.
  • Maintains and updates library databases and bibliographic records (e.g., OCLC or similar systems).
  • Assists in collection maintenance activities such as inventory, weeding, and material preparation.
  • Compiles, analyzes, and prepares statistical and operational reports.
  • Maintains records and documentation related to library operations and services.
  • Provides service at public desks, including circulation, registration, and basic reference support.
  • Assists patrons in locating materials and using library resources.
  • May perform the tasks of Library Assistant I as determined by library’s daily operational needs.
  • Performs basic troubleshooting and support for public-use on computers, printers, (e.g. public end-user issues, mobile printing interface, clearing jams, replacing toner).
  • Provides end-user support for Microsoft Office applications (e.g. Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Access) and Internet tools.
  • Provides support for productivity and collaboration platforms, including Microsoft 365 (Teams, SharePoint, etc.) and Google Workspace applications.
  • Delivers one-on-one or small group instruction on computer use and digital resources.
  • May assist in the creation and maintaining of technical documentation, user guides, and knowledge base articles.
  • May assist IT staff with installation of personal computer hardware and peripherals, including system units, monitors, printers, mobile devices, and other technology equipment.
  • Maintains current knowledge of industry trends, technologies, and best practices and incorporates appropriate advancements into work activities.
  • Performs other related duties as required.

Education, Qualifications, and Experience

Associate’s Degree in Library Technical Assistance, Information Technology, or a related field, or completion of a two-year Library Technical Assistant program, or a two-year program in Computer Support or Information Systems.

One year experience in computer support, information systems, or a related area including experience providing related instruction or training;

In lieu of an Associate’s Degree or a 2-year LTA or Computer Support/Information Systems program, an additional two years of directly related work experience may be substituted.

Preferred certifications and Experience: Microsoft Certified Professional with experience in Microsoft 365 and cloud-based collaboration

Salary, Bargaining Unit, and Terms of Employment

This is a “General Fund,” tested position.

This position is included in a collective bargaining agreement with Local 884, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.

Bargaining agreements available to review HERE.

General Funded hires into this class shall not be covered by Social Security but rather the City pension, contributing 9% of salary.

The City of New Haven does not sponsor employment visas. All applicants must have current authorization to work in the U.S. without employer-sponsored visa support.

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of: (1) a pre-employment background check,and  (2) a pre-employment drug screening in accordance with the City’s Drug Free Workplace Policy. Instructions and information on this pre-employment process are included in Conditional Offer of Employment.

Pursuant to the Federal Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, The City of New Haven has a adopted a Drug Free Workplace Policy. The City of New Haven requires a pre-employment drug test, which includes screening for marijuana.

Selection Plan

Applications will be reviewed by the Department of Human Resources. Applicants must demonstrate within their submission that they meet the minimum requirements as listed within the job description; failure to do so may result in disqualification. Applicants meeting minimum requirements may be invited to participate in a Civil Service exam process at a later date.

It is critical that you complete the application thoroughly, as the information you provide will be used to ascertain if you are eligible to move forward in the selection process. Your application and resume should indicate that you meet the minimum requirements as listed. This information may be used to determine the eligibility list. As such, this job announcement should be considered the exam announcement, and submissions may be evaluated prior to the posted closing date.

Information regarding the employment and selection process can be found HERE.

Please note that the only method of communication with applicants for this position will be by email. You must provide a valid, working email address and you will need to monitor your email, including spam/junk folders, for correspondence from the New Haven Human Resources Department.

We reserve the right to extend an application deadline or close a job posting early to ensure we can attract and identify the best candidate(s) for a position.

LIBRARIAN (PART TIME) , Cataloger in Technical Services Department at Ives Main Library | $21 per hour

This role requires a Masters Degree in Library Science from a graduate program accredited by the American Library Association. Library Science students within 1 semester of completing their coursework at an ALA accredited institution will be considered for employment at the rate of $18/hour, to be updated to the full $21/hour upon completion of their MLIS degree program.

This position is an amazing opportunity for current librarians looking for extra experience or Library Science students nearing graduation who are interested in getting hands-on experience in a vibrant urban library setting. The City of New Haven and the New Haven Free Public Library has launched many Librarian’s careers from this position.

Assignment in Technical Services Department
The current vacancy supports the Technical Services / Cataloging Department.

Assignment is in the Technical Services / Cataloging Department, and requires cataloging and ILS experience, including original & copy cataloging for all material types (including non-traditional items), data loading, and authority file maintenance.

All Library positions serve a diverse population, including a substantial Spanish-speaking community. Spanish/English bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.

19 hours per week, may include evening & weekend varied hours to support ongoing Library programming.

Primary Functions

This is part time professional work at the entry level, involving the use of all library techniques and materials in positions such as information or adult services, branch, children and youth, technical services, etc. Work is performed under the general supervision of a higher level librarian, and is reviewed through frequent conferences and observation of performance.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities
  • Catalogs books, periodicals, public documents, pamphlets, AV materials, etc. using automated system and bibliographic utilities; performs original and copy cataloging; assigns subject headings; reviews preprocessed items for accuracy; supervises the processing of materials.
  • Selects or aids in selecting print and non-print materials subject to review by a higher level librarian.
  • Performs research for and instructs patrons in the use of reference tools and databases, prepares bibliographies.
  • May provide guidance to parents, teachers and patrons of all ages concerning appropriate and desirable reading material.
  • Instructs patrons in the use of the library and its facilities; assists patrons in the use of computers and their applications, including the Internet; conducts library tours for school and civic groups.
  • Conducts programs such as book talks, story hours, and specialized information presentations.
  • Develops and maintains relationships with schools and other organizations to promote library services.
  • Supervises the work of support personnel. May supervise branch or department in absence of regular supervisor.
  • Performs related work as required..

Education, Qualifications, and Experience

A Masters Degree in Library Science from a graduate program accredited by the American Library Association.

Selection Process

Applications will be reviewed by the Department of Human Resources. Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the minimum requirements as listed within the job description; failure to do so may result in disqualification.

It is critical that you complete the application thoroughly, as the information you provide will be used to ascertain if you are eligible to move forward in the selection process. Your application and resume should indicate that you meet the minimum requirements as listed. This information may be used to determine the eligibility list. Submissions may be evaluated prior to a posted closing date, and a hiring decision may be made prior to the removal of the job posting.

Information regarding the employment and selection process can be found HERE.

Please note that the only method of communication with applicants for this position will be by email. You must provide a valid, working email address and you will need to monitor your email, including spam/junk folders, for correspondence from the New Haven Human Resources Department.

We reserve the right to extend an application deadline or close a job posting early to ensure we can attract and identify the best candidate(s) for a position.

Salary, Bargaining Unit, and Terms of Employment

This is a General Fund, “Non Tested” position.

*Library Science students within 1 semester of completing their coursework at an ALA accredited institution will be considered for employment at the rate of $18/hour, to be updated to the full $21/hour upon completion of their MLIS degree program.

This part time position is not eligible to receive medical benefits, vacation pay, holiday, union membership, or union contractual benefits. Any period of part time employment will not be construed in any way to mean probationary employment. Persons may not be employed in two concurrent part time positions with the City and/or the Board of Education at the same time.

The City of New Haven does not sponsor employment visas. All applicants must have current authorization to work in the U.S. without employer-sponsored visa support.

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of: (1) a pre-employment background check, (2) a pre-employment physical examination, including pre-employment drug screening in accordance with the City’s Drug Free Workplace Policy*, and (3) a 90-day probationary period. Instructions and information on this pre-employment process are included in Conditional Offer of Employment.

Pursuant to the Federal Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, The City of New Haven has a adopted a Drug Free Workplace Policy. The City of New Haven requires a pre-employment drug test, which includes screening for marijuana.

LIBRARY AIDE (PART TIME) Spanish – English Bilingual at the Fair Haven Branch | $18 per hour

If you are considering a career in Library Science, this position is an excellent opportunity to begin getting hands-on experience. It is also perfect for highly motivated students to join the world of public service work in their communities.

Primary Functions

This is a paraprofessional position that involves clerical, materials processing, technology support and circulation tasks and other standard library routines such as shelving, registration, and orientation of patrons to collections and services.

Schedule of work is 19 hours per week, may include evening and weekend hours.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities
  • Answers general queries from the public; refers patrons to other staff as required.
  • Communicates in Spanish and translates as needed.
  • Registers customers, updates borrowing records and financial histories.
  • Sorts and files cards, shelves books and other materials alphabetically and by classification.
  • Charges and discharges library materials. Calculates and collects overdue and other charges on library materials.
  • Performs routine clerical duties, including data entry.
  • Performs online accounts receivables and payroll entry.
  • Prepares print and non-print materials for circulation.
  • Supports computer and technology services.

Education, Qualifications, and Experience

Graduation from high school; and at least one year experience in library, clerical, technical or customer service work, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the following knowledge, experience, and skills:

Knowledge, Experience, Skills & Abilities
  • Knowledge of routine office procedures.
  • Knowledge of computer hardware and software.
  • Knowledge of correct English usage, punctuation, spelling, grammar and vocabulary.
  • Knowledge of the Dewey Decimal System.
  • Ability to file alphabetically and numerically.
  • Ability to make basic arithmetic computations.
  • Ability to understand and follow instructions and to learn related clerical and library tasks within a reasonable time.
  • Attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with library personnel.
  • Ability to work with the general public in a pleasant and professional manner.
  • Knowledge of Spanish and English languages, broad enough for ready conversation of each language to the other, with ability to convey accurately the intended meaning of the spoken word or sentence.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in both English and in Spanish, orally and in writing, and translate between the two.

Salary, Bargaining Unit, and Terms of Employment

This is a General Fund, “Non Tested” position.

This is a General Fund, “Non Tested” position.

This part time position is not eligible to receive medical benefits, vacation pay, holiday, union membership, or union contractual benefits. Any period of part time employment will not be construed in any way to mean probationary employment. Persons may not be employed in two concurrent part time positions with the City and/or the Board of Education at the same time.

The City of New Haven does not sponsor employment visas. All applicants must have current authorization to work in the U.S. without employer-sponsored visa support.

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of: (1) a pre-employment background check, (2) a pre-employment physical examination, including pre-employment drug screening in accordance with the City’s Drug Free Workplace Policy*, and (3) a 90-day probationary period. Instructions and information on this pre-employment process are included in Conditional Offer of Employment.

Pursuant to the Federal Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, The City of New Haven has a adopted a Drug Free Workplace Policy. The City of New Haven requires a pre-employment drug test, which includes screening for marijuana.

LIBRARY PASSPORT OFFICE AGENT (PART TIME) Ives Main Library | $18 per hour

Primary Functions

This is a part-time, 19 hours per week, paraprofessional position in the passport office of the New Haven Free Public Library. Work may include evenings and weekends, at Ives Main Library, or at other library branches, or at special outreach events in the community.

The New Haven Free Public Library offers Passport and Passport Photo services, where patrons can apply for and renew passports.

Information on our Passport Services can be found HERE.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities
  • Accepts passport applications from customers and review all paperwork to ensure that required information and documentation has been provided.
  • Inspects passport applications for accuracy and potential fraudulent information.
  • Answers questions from the public on passport applications and procedures required by the U.S. Department of State.
  • Takes passport photos.
  • Collects of all passport associated fees for submission to the Department of State.
  • Provides reports of all passport applications processed.
  • Performs routine clerical duties, including data entry.
  • Supports the Library’s computer and technology services.
  • Performs other related work as required.

Education, Qualifications, and Experience

High School diploma required; 

Current U.S. citizenship required; 

At least one year of experience in library, clerical or customer service work.

Knowledge, Experience, Skills & Abilities
  • Ability to learn Passport Agency procedures, and processing requirements.
  • Experience handling a variety of forms of payment (i.e.: cash, checks, electronic transactions).
  • Knowledge of computer hardware and software in order to provide support to the Library’s computer and technology services.
  • Knowledge of correct English usage, punctuation, spelling, grammar and vocabulary.
  • Must possess excellent customer service and telephone skills.
  • Must be attentive to details.
  • Ability to file alphabetically and numerically.
  • Ability to make basic arithmetic computations.
  • Must be committed to hours assigned.
  • Bilingual English/Spanish is highly desirable.
  • Ability to pass US passport training and test as well as yearly recertification during duration of employment.

Salary, Bargaining Unit, and Terms of Employment

This is a General Fund, “Non Tested” position.

This is a General Fund, “Non Tested” position.

This part time position is not eligible to receive medical benefits, vacation pay, union membership, or union contractual benefits. Any period of part time employment will not be construed in any way to mean probationary employment. Persons may not be employed in two concurrent part time positions with the City and/or the Board of Education at the same time.

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of: (1) a pre-employment background check, (2) a pre-employment physical examination, including pre-employment drug screening in accordance with the City’s Drug Free Workplace Policy*, and (3) a 90-day probationary period. Instructions and information on this pre-employment process are included in Conditional Offer of Employment.

Pursuant to the Federal Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, The City of New Haven has a adopted a Drug Free Workplace Policy. The City of New Haven requires a pre-employment drug test, which includes screening for marijuana.

LIBRARY MAINTENANCE (PART TIME) Maintenance & Light Labor | $18-20 per hour

Primary Functions

This is part-time work involving basic maintenance duties under the general direction of the Maintenance Supervisor. The position performs inspections of equipment, minor repairs, installation of fixtures, appliances, and other necessary equipment.

Maintenance staff perform routine and preventive maintenance and repairs for library buildings and equipment, ensuring technical operations are in proper running order. Assignments are received in the form of oral and written orders, or employees may discover defects and proceed on their own initiative to eliminate the defects. Work is usually performed independently, but is subject to supervision while in progress or upon completion.

This position is 19 hours per week, scheduled for afternoons & evenings.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities
  • Daily delivery of materials among five NHFPL facilities
  • Routine tasks like changing light bulbs, checking fire extinguishers
  • Program Room and event set-up
  • Mail and payroll pick-up & distribution
  • Performance of small repair jobs – plumbing, electrical, painting, and carpentry
  • Assembly of library furniture and equipment
  • Moving books, furniture and equipment as needed
  • Maintaining inventory of janitorial supplies
  • Snow removal and ice sanding at library buildings
  • Grounds maintenance at all facilities
  • Motor vehicle, van, and/or bookmobile pre- and post-trip inspections and making recommendations for repairs and maintenance
  • Performs related duties as assigned.

Education, Qualifications, and Experience

At least one year’s experience in the building trades, facilities maintenance or similar. High School or GED degree and/or vocational training, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:

Knowledge, Experience, Skills & Abilities
  • Knowledge of the methods, practices, tools and materials used in general maintenance and repair work.
  • Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions in the area of assignment.
  • Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, emails and memos.
  • Knowledge of basic carpentry, plumbing, HVAC and electricity principles.
  • Knowledge of basic motor vehicle maintenance.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in spoken and written language.
  • Ability to prepare concise and accurate reports of maintenance and repair needs and activities.
  • Ability to make basic arithmetic computations.
  • Ability to interpret miscellaneous drawings, schematics, and assembly instructions.
  • Skill in the use of tools and equipment necessary to do general maintenance and repair work.
  • Possession of and ability to maintain a valid State of Connecticut driver’s license.

Salary, Bargaining Unit, and Terms of Employment

This is a General Fund, “Non Tested” position.

This is a General Fund, “Non Tested” position.

This part time position is not eligible to receive medical benefits, vacation pay, union membership, or union contractual benefits. Any period of part time employment will not be construed in any way to mean probationary employment. Persons may not be employed in two concurrent part time positions with the City and/or the Board of Education at the same time.

The City of New Haven does not sponsor employment visas. All applicants must have current authorization to work in the U.S. without employer-sponsored visa support.

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of: (1) a pre-employment background check, (2) a pre-employment physical examination, including pre-employment drug screening in accordance with the City’s Drug Free Workplace Policy*, and (3) a 90-day probationary period. Instructions and information on this pre-employment process are included in Conditional Offer of Employment.

Pursuant to the Federal Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, The City of New Haven has a adopted a Drug Free Workplace Policy. The City of New Haven requires a pre-employment drug test, which includes screening for marijuana.

NHFPL Foundation

Thank you for your interest. There are no current openings at the New Haven Free Public Library Foundation.