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New York Public Library

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Mostly a good run - Anonymous employee New York Public Library Employee Review

4.0
Sep 20, 2017
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

I had a great manager for my early years at NYPL. I had a high degree of latitude to run my programs my way and was trusted to make my own decisions on almost all issues. My boss was hilarious, valued my work and viewpoint, and was happy to help when I wanted a second opinion. I had a frequent opportunities to grow and learn a very wide range of new things, which was valuable to my career.

Cons

A lot of my colleagues were not so lucky in the manager department - I'll let them leave their own reviews. This is not an org where HR has your interests in mind - they are only concerned with the org's interests. The politics of the org can get ugly - you probably won't notice unless you say for many many years, or have to attend senior mgmt meetings. Some teams can be draining to work with, especially if healthy communication patterns are not in place. And while most of my colleagues were great, they were not as good at keeping their word as colleagues I've worked with elsewhere - I prefer coworkers who do what they promised when they promised, and communicate proactively.

Explore other reviews about New York Public Library

5.0
Mar 18, 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
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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