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New York Public Library

Is this your company?

Just make sure you know what you're getting into. - Anonymous employee New York Public Library Employee Review

3.0
Jan 2, 2018
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

civil service, some supportive managers, nothing too taxing usually

Cons

If you work in a branch, you will be doing a lot of information desk and circulation (yes, librarians do circulation, too). Some of the branches are very busy, many of the patrons are extremely pushy, and dealing with restroom keys, the homeless and mentally ill will be a regular part of your job. If you get hired in the branches, you'll probably stay in the branches. Everyone wants to work in the beautiful Schwarzman building where they have real security and the rare book collection, or work doing real research, but those jobs are few and far between.

Explore other reviews about New York Public Library

5.0
Jun 22, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Flexible schedule and overall fun work environment

Cons

I don’t have any cons

3.0
May 26, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

- Unparalleled work-life balance, especially for tech workers. - A very relaxed and friendly environment with no micromanagement. - Generous leave policies. - Most projects have very slow deadlines, so there’s no significant work pressure. - A laissez-faire work culture. - If you’re contemplating retirement, pursuing a master’s degree, or starting a side hustle, this is an excellent place to work.

Cons

- Compensation is significantly below market rate. - Toxic directors and senior leaders favor certain employees and encourage sycophancy. Sycophants are rewarded with benefits such as flexible work schedules and the ability to work remotely. - Promotion is contingent upon being a sycophant. - Directors and senior leaders often avoid the office altogether or have erratic schedules, such as arriving at 7 pm and leaving whenever they please, while simultaneously enforcing strict rules. - If you’re an ambitious individual seeking career growth, this is not the ideal place to be.

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