Careers > Public Libraries

Public Libraries

"A public librarian does more than check out books. Technology expert, information detective, manager, literacy expert, trainer, community programming coordinator, reader advisor, children’s storyteller, material reviewer and buyer."

Over 1,000 public libraries are helping New Yorkers in an ever-growing array of services. A public librarian can specialize in children or adult services or one of many specialties, dependent on the size of the library, includin: reference, cataloging, technology, children's and youth services, readers' advisory, community outreach and much more.

• What do librarians love about their jobs? Public librarians talk about why they became librarians
• To help librarians sustain their professional development, NYLA and the New York State Library are again offering courses through the WebJunction course catalog in 2010 as a continuation of the Training on the Go!! program

Video

A Career at Queens Library : This great video done by the public library system in Queens NY gives you a taste of what it's like to work for a large urban public library.

More information about Public Libraries

• Public Library Association (national organization)
• New York Library Association Public Libraries Section
• Children and Youth Services Librarian

Blogs

Many librarians are blogging about public library work and issues. A few examples are listed here.

• Pop Goes the Library Using pop culture to make libraries better.
• Alternative Teen Services Sharing ideas, resources, and advocacy about serving teens.

Back to top