Librarian

Organization: The Bronx County Historical Society

Location: 3309 Bainbridge Avenue, The Bronx, NY 10467

Position: Full-Time Librarian

Schedule: Tuesday–Thursday, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Friday–Saturday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Sunday & Monday off.

About Us:

The Bronx County Historical Society is the premier institution dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich, diverse history of The Bronx and Lower Westchester County. We operate archives, a research library, two historic house museums, and cultural programs that serve scholars, students, and our vibrant local community. Our library is a vital resource and community hub, safeguarding the stories that make The Bronx unique.

The Opportunity:

We are seeking a passionate, public-service oriented Librarian to join our team. This role is central to our mission, providing direct support to patrons, managing our collections, and helping to connect people with the history of our borough. The ideal candidate is not only a skilled information professional but also a patient, engaging ambassador for our institution.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide expert reference and research assistance to a diverse patron base, including students, historians, genealogists, and community members.
• Manage the day-to-day operations of the library reading room.
• Create, update, and maintain accurate catalog records for library and archival materials.
• Assist in the care, organization, and preservation of special collections.
• Help patrons access and utilize digital resources and databases.
• Handle all research inquiries and appointments via phone, mail, or email.
• Contribute to library projects, exhibits, and community outreach initiatives.
• Collaborate with Society staff on interdisciplinary publications, projects, and programs.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an ALA-accredited program.
• Demonstrated knowledge of and experience with library cataloging principles and standards (RDA, MARC, LCSH).
• Knowledge of basic preservation techniques for library materials.
• A genuine passion for the history of New York City and a commitment to Bronx community engagement.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to engage patiently, respectfully, and meaningfully with patrons of all ages and backgrounds.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to climb ladders and lift document storage boxes up to 50lbs.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with the KOHA Integrated Library System (ILS) and Filemaker Pro.
• Experience working in a historical society, archive, or special collections library.
• Conversational proficiency in Spanish.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary Range: $42,000 – $50,000 per year, commensurate with experience.
• Retirement: Participation in the CIRS Pension Plan and 401(k) voluntary savings plan.
• Life Insurance: Participation in the CIRS life insurance plan.
• Paid Time Off: First-year employees receive 2 weeks (10 days) of vacation and sick leave. Vacation increases to 3 weeks (15 days) in the second year and thereafter.
• Schedule: A consistent, full-time schedule with Sundays and Mondays off.

How to Apply:

Follow instructions on Idealist.org system to submit application materials (resume, cover letter, and contact info for three references.)

Application Deadline: January 31, 2026

The Bronx County Historical Society is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

The Bronx County Historical Society will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities during the application and interview process. To request an accommodation, please write to administrator@bronxhistoricalsociety.org.

This position is subject to a background check as required by law.

Retirement: Participation in the CIRS Pension Plan and 401(k) voluntary savings plan.

Life Insurance: Participation in the CIRS life insurance plan.

Paid Time Off: First-year employees receive 2 weeks (10 days) of vacation and sick leave. Vacation increases to 3 weeks (15 days) in the second year and thereafter.

Preferred Qualification: Conversational proficiency in Spanish.