Library Page - Teen Reading Ambassadors (Macomb's Bridge Library)
About the role
The New York Public Library is seeking teens in 10th, 11th, or 12th grade who are interested in working with children, exploring careers in education, literacy, librarianship, or youth services, or learning about libraries. Teen Reading Ambassadors (TRA) will be assigned to an NYPL drop-in After School homework help and enrichment program at a local branch in the Bronx, Manhattan, or Staten Island.
Ambassadors will receive pre-work and ongoing training to serve as academic tutors, focusing on developing literacy skills and a love of reading in children ages 6–12. They will also have the opportunity to support the production of Portal, a literary magazine for younger children.
Position hours run from September 25, 2026, to June 3, 2027, and include:
- Kick-off training on Saturday, October 3 and Friday, October 9
- Additional training on Saturday, November 14
- 32 weeks of work at an assigned library branch (starting the week of October 5)
- Up to 7 hours per week, scheduled either Monday & Wednesday or Tuesday & Thursday for 3–3.5 hours each day after school
- Special events and opportunities
Most hours will be scheduled starting around 3 PM on weekdays, with a few weekend events. Ambassadors will not work during NYC school breaks or holidays. A program calendar will be provided during the interview process.
Applicants must be able to commute to their selected location by around 3 PM on weekdays. If hired, assignment to a specific branch will be confirmed during the interview.
Responsibilities
- Support the set-up and clean-up of the After School program
- Help students with their homework
- Serve as a literacy tutor to children ages 6–12
- Develop and lead literacy-focused enrichment activities
- Participate in trainings and meetings to develop best practices in tutoring, with a focus on literacy
- Support programs conducted by the Children’s Librarian and other key staff
- Be role models for elementary school children and model exemplary behavior
- Collaborate with Tutors and/or other Teen Reading Ambassadors to create an enriching and fun environment for children
- Optional: Support the production of the Teen Reading Ambassadors’ literary magazine, Portal
Requirements
Education & Experience
- Current enrollment in 10th–12th grade in an NYC high school
- Proper employment certificate for minors under 18 as required by NYS law
- A resume is required for this position
Skills
- Demonstrated interest in and/or experience working with children
- Interest in reading, writing, and/or libraries
- Strong communication skills and ability to interact with a diverse group of people
- Demonstrated reliability and punctuality
- Ability to work as part of a team
- Hardworking and willing to be flexible
- Able to communicate through email and other electronic formats in a timely manner
- Demonstrated integrity
- Basic computer skills, including email, internet, and word processing
Core Values
- Be Helpful to patrons and colleagues
- Be Resourceful in solving problems
- Be Curious in all aspects of your work
- Be Welcoming and Inclusive
Physical Duties
- Limited physical effort is required
- Light lifting required (up to 20 lbs.)
- May require travel within NYC
Schedule
- 6–7 hours per week
- Scheduled for 3–3.5 hours each day on either Monday & Wednesday or Tuesday & Thursday after school
- Additional orientation, training, and special opportunity hours as scheduled
Pay
$17.00 per hour