employer cover photo
employer logo
employer logo

New York Public Library

Is this your company?

Like being stuck in a bad marriage. - Anonymous employee New York Public Library Employee Review

1.0
8 Mar 2013
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

I have a job. Though it's hanging by a thread, the IS still some form of union, and benefits. Yet, no contract since 2009/2010.

Cons

From cover-boy Marx all the way down to the lowest-level manager; and now, the mass influx of inexperienced, external hires that we have to train before they replace us. Until they recognize that their success is dependent on a positive, productive, supportive work environment for their labor force, they will continue to lose loyal patrons and money. Don't feel too bad for them... Crying broke... please! They get paid every time someone holds a gala, films a movie, commercial, or some millionaire dies & drops millions that they allocate for preferred projects. Morale has never been lower. Say goodbye to the days when you would come to a NYPL branch and find books. They're being deleted by the shelf-load. "Now we have e-books, and e-resources!" Quotes we are encouraged to use to cover for their asinine decisions when patrons come asking "what happened to all the books?". Old-timers: Technology; learn to like it or learn to love it.

Explore other reviews about New York Public Library

5.0
18 Mar 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

The Library is dynamic and interesting. There are many intelligent, dedicated people working there. I learned a lot and got to work on some cool stuff.

Cons

it could benefit from more project management.

3.0
26 May 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.

See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All