We are seeking talented, creative, and forward-thinking individuals to become part of the Tompkins County Public Library team, dedicated to creating a library where everyone belongs.
Compensated positions at Tompkins County Public Library are civil service positions and are supported by our local civil service agency, Tompkins County Department of Human Resources, who accepts applications, conducts civil service examinations and provides lists of eligible candidates to the Library. All professional and support positions require applicants to take a written exam or a training and experience exam except for the library page position. When a vacancy occurs at the Library, a list of eligible, qualified candidates is provided to us, or a vacancy will be posted so that interested candidates may apply to take the exam when available so that a list can be established. When no list exists, the Library may hire on a temporary or provisional basis. This can be a lengthy process. For more information on the civil service process, please visit the Tompkins County Human Resources Department website.
You can opt to receive email notifications from Tompkins County about new civil service job postings.
Upcoming Exams
When an exam notice is posted for a position which exists at the Library, we strongly encourage you to apply. Please take exams as they are offered even if there is not a current vacancy for the position for which you are taking the exam. Under civil service regulations, any future vacancy at the Library must be filled from a certified list consisting of those who have taken the exam and are eligible for appointment.
For more information, please visit the Tompkins County Civil Service exam page.
Continuous Recruitment
Continuous recruitment positions are those for which we continuously accept applications. When a vacancy occurs we will review the applications on file to fill the position. Below are those positions that are continuous recruitment:
Library Page
Page work involves the shelving of books and library materials and performing minor clerical tasks. This position requires no prior experience as employees are trained on the job, and no exam is required.
Library Page job description
Apply for the library page position. Scroll down the page until you see "Page." Although this position appears on the "Current Vacancy Lists" page, it doesn't mean the library currently has an opening, but that we are always accepting applications for this position.
Most Common Positions at TCPL
Library Page
Page work involves shelving of books and library materials and performing minor clerical tasks. This position requires no prior experience as employees are trained on the job, and no exam is required.
Library Page job description
Clerk and Senior Clerk
Many of the clerk positions are customer service jobs assisting patrons at the front circulation desk. Clerks register people for library cards, check materials in and out, and handle accounts. Clerks also process materials and handle ordering and receiving of materials. Senior Clerks have additional responsibilities including supervising services and staff.
Library Clerk Job description
Senior Library Clerk job description
Librarian I, II, and III
All librarian positions require a Master's degree in Library Science (MLS) or a Master's of Science in Information Science (MSIS) from a library school that is accredited by the American Library Association or recognized by the New York State Education Department.
Librarian I job description
Librarian II job description
Librarian III job description
Study Guides
Some study guides are posted on the Personnel Department web site. Others can be ordered from the LEAP program of the Civil Service Employee Association; order forms are available from the Tompkins County Personnel Office or online at the Civil Service Employees Association website. Study guides may also be available in the library in the Test section. Please ask a staff person for assistance.
