Library Page - Teen Reading Ambassadors

The New York Public Library • ,

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The New York Public Library is seeking teens in the 10th, 11th, or 12th grade who are interested in working with children, exploring careers in education, literacy, librarianship, and/or youth services, or exploring the world and work of libraries. The Teen Reading Ambassadors (TRA) position will be assigned to one of NYPL’s drop-in After School homework help and enrichment programs at local library branches in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island. Teen Reading Ambassadors will receive pre-work and ongoing training to serve as high-quality academic tutors, focusing on developing literacy skills and a love of reading in children ages 6–12. Ambassadors will also have the opportunity to support the production of Portal, a literary magazine for younger children. Position hours are scheduled between September 25, 2026, and June 3, 2027, including kick-off training, additional training, 32 weeks of work at an assigned library branch (up to 7 hours per week, typically after school on weekdays), and special events. Most weekday hours will start around 3 PM, with some weekend events. Ambassadors will not work during NYC School breaks or holidays. Applicants will select preferred locations, and must be able to commute to these locations by around 3 PM on weekdays. The assigned location will be confirmed during the interview process.

Requirements

• 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.
• 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

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 and work with the Tutor(s) 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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED