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.
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
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.
EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES LIBRARIAN (FULL TIME) | Within Local 3144 Range 8: $64,357 – $67,778 annualized
This is advanced-level professional library work involving the planning, implementation, and evaluation of innovative technologies, digital services, and information systems for the library system. The position requires the application of specialized knowledge, independent judgment, and initiative to enhance access to information through emerging technologies.
The Emerging Technologies Librarian leads the integration of new and evolving technologies into library services, supports digital literacy initiatives, and ensures that technology-driven services align with community needs and the library’s strategic goals. Work is performed under the general supervision of senior administrative staff.
This vacancy supports the Ives Squared department of the Ives Main Library at 133 Elm Street.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
- Plans, develops, implements, and evaluates emerging technology initiatives, digital services, and innovative programming for the library system.
- Researches, evaluates, and recommends new technologies, equipment, and digital platforms to enhance library services and operations.
- Leads or participates in the planning and implementation of technology-based projects, including digital collections, makerspaces, online resources, and public computing services.
- Conducts feasibility studies and prepares proposals, including cost analysis and implementation plans for new technologies and services.
- Oversees and contributes to collection development with emphasis on digital resources, databases, and technology-related materials.
- Develops and delivers training for staff and the public on digital tools, emerging technologies, and information literacy.
- Maintains current knowledge of trends, innovations, and best practices in library technology, digital services, and information access.
- Collaborates with library staff, IT personnel, and external partners to support and maintain technology infrastructure and services.
- Assists in the management, maintenance, and evaluation of public and staff technology, including computers, networks, and specialized equipment.
- Develops and implements programs that promote digital inclusion, creativity, and equitable access to technology.
- Collects and analyzes data related to technology usage, services, and programs to inform decision-making and strategic planning.
- Participates in outreach efforts to promote technology services and resources to the community; assesses patron interest in and demand for products and services.
- May plan, assign, and supervise the work of assigned staff and provide guidance on technology-related services and operations.
- Coordinates with other staff members regarding the library’s website and e-resources.
- May provide reference support on the Switchboard Desk and other service points as assigned for weekly desk hours, including evenings and weekends in rotation.
- Builds staff awareness of new and emerging technologies.
- Performs related work as required.
Education, Qualifications, and Experience
Master’s Degree in Library Science from an American Library Association (ALA) accredited institution (or its foreign equivalent); and
Minimum of three (3) years of progressively responsible professional library experience
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 3144, 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 10% 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, (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.
Selection Plan
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, and in some cases, this information may be used to determine the eligibility list. 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.
LIBRARIAN (PART TIME) , Cataloger in Technical Services Department at Ives Main Library | $21 per hour
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 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
DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT (FULL TIME) | $72,500 – $77,500 annualized
The New Haven Free Public Library Foundation is seeking a self-directed, creative, and positive team player to oversee the development and fund-raising arm of the New Haven Free Public Library system. We are a 501(c)(3) organization governed by a volunteer-member Board of Directors. Working in consultation with the President of the Foundation’s Board of Directors and the City Librarian, who serves as the Foundation’s Executive Director, this position is responsible for setting and meeting fundraising targets, planning and executing development projects including grants and campaigns, expanding giving capacity, and building a culture of philanthropy within the library system.
Work spans all functional areas of development and advancement: individual and institutional giving, grant writing, data management and analysis, event planning, donor relations, board development and marketing / communications. A successful candidate will have a broad range of experience with fundraising and nonprofit administration; analytic and creative thinking and communication skills; a track record of success; and a passion for supporting the important work of public libraries.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
- In consultation with the Foundation Board president and the City Librarian, set fundraising strategy, annual calendar, and budget, and develop an action plan to raise money in support of the New Haven Free Public Library’s mission
- Work with the Foundation Board President and the Board to set strategic priorities and to achieve agreed upon revenue goals for projects
- Manage the annual fundraising campaign: solicitation, donor recognition and acknowledgement, data maintenance and analysis, grant, and proposal writing
- Develop and manage strategic communications, including social media, newsletters, and digital campaigns, to engage donors and raise visibility of the library’s impact
- Prepare regular reports on the status of fundraising and grant activities
- Plan and coordinate an annual large-scale fundraising gala along with additional events, celebrations and gatherings throughout the year
- Supervise all day-to-day Foundation financial operations with assistance from the part-time bookkeeper and in consultation with the Foundation treasurer and president. This includes maintaining signed receipts and grant awards letters, large donations or gift documentation, assisting the bookkeeper and accountant with tax preparation, and collaborating with the treasurer to propose an annual budget
- Provide administrative and operational support the Foundation Board President, the Executive Committee, and the Board of Directors
- Supervise one part-time development assistant
- Respond to requests for information and work assignments particularly from the City Librarian and the Board President, with timeliness, professionalism and consistent follow-through
- In consultation with the Board President and the Executive Committee, develop the agenda for regular meetings of the Board. Prepare and distribute the packet of materials for distribution to Board members in advance of the meeting
Education, Qualifications, and Experience
- BA or equivalent experience (required), advanced degree or relevant certifications preferred
- Demonstrated effectiveness in working with a nonprofit board
- Demonstrated success in developing and delivering donor revenue goals and fundraising benchmarks in a cost-effective way
- Demonstrated excellence in organizational, managerial, and communication skills
- Knowledge and understanding of public libraries and their role in the community
- Knowledge and proficiency with donor and financial management tools, including Donor Perfect (or similar fundraising database), QuickBooks, and website management systems
- Familiarity with technology platforms for communication and payments including Stripe or Square, social media platforms, and virtual collaboration tools such as Zoom
Terms of Work and Benefits
This is a full-time salaried position, based on a 37.5-hour work week, typically Monday through Friday, with occasional evening or weekend hours required for meetings or fundraising events. This is a 12-month renewable contract. The primary work location will be at the Ives Main Library at 133 Elm Street, New Haven.
The expected salary range for this position is $72,500 – $77,500 per year, based on experience and qualifications. Vacation days are accrued during the employment year (15 days/year divided by 12 months = 1.25 days/month) and would be reimbursed as accrued when employment ends. Small Employer Health Reimbursement Arrangement (QSEHRA) available to eligible employees.
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, résumé, and contact information for three references to Maria Bernhey, City Librarian, at mbernhey@nhfpl.org and reference “Director of Advancement position” in the subject line of your email. Review of applications will begin on August 7, 2026 and continue until the position is filled.
