nypl library page Flashcards
1
Q
Why do you want to work at the New York Public Library specifically?
A
- grew up w/ nypl all my life
- a great way to boost self-esteem and confidence as I enjoy helping out others and our community
- as someone who grew up in a low income household and struggling academically, know how important it is that we have easily accessible resources to everyone which is why I resonate with NYPL’s free services and resources because I know what is it like first handedly to struggle.
- Overall, working at NYPL specifically aligns with my passion for learning, community, personal growth, and meaning connections
2
Q
transferable skills?
A
- attention to detail when I analyzed datasets and digital marketing materials during my time as a Data Analyst Trainee and as a graphic designer trainee which is important when organizing library materials.
- time management during my past summers balancing 25 hours of work for 6 weeks + handling many multiple demanding assignments.
- LLS and Key Club showed teamwork and collaboration as I worked with a diverse range of peers by communicating with them to plan and help organize events
- communication skills during my most recent and current communications coursework
- problem-solving skills from my academic turnaround after almost failing 11th grade despite 12th grade mattering “less” to colleges
- organization with school assignments especially having to adapt to managing and planning out how I am gonna do my work more independently in college
3
Q
Why do you think you’re a good fit for this role?
A
- spent a lot of time at nypl and libraries in general
- already have a solid foundation and idea of how books are organized and sorted making next steps in training potentionally easier
- know how important it is to have a space where information is easily accessible, regardless of anyones situation
- truly appreciate the work libraries do in supporting the community, and I’m excited to contribute to that mission by helping to keep things organized and accessible for others
4
Q
“Where do you see yourself in the next year or so? How does this job fit into your goals?”
A
- I hope to have gained hands-on experience in library operations while contributing to the team.
- role aligns with my goal of working in a community-focused environment where I can make a positive impact
- looking forward to continuing to learn and develop skills here
5
Q
“How would you ensure materials are shelved correctly?”
A
Using strategies I have learned in the past as a library visitor to check the call number
* Breaking the number down using the Dewey Decimal system
* Check section by section
* Shelf reading
* Know that single letters come before combinations of letters and the dewey decimal system works like general decimals
6
Q
“What strategies would you use ensure materials are shelved correctly?”
A
- “I’d use a combination of strategies to ensure accuracy.
- break the call number into sections and read it carefully, verifying both numbers and letters.
- After shelving, I’d do a quick shelf-read to make sure everything around the book is in the correct order.
- If something seems off, I’d double-check the call number with the library’s system.
- This helps me stay organized and avoid small mistakes.
7
Q
“How do you handle repetitive tasks while staying motivated?”
A
- I handle repetitive tasks by setting small goals for myself to stay focused and motivated. I actually enjoy it as I enjoy a routine.
- For example, when shelving books, I might challenge myself to organize a certain number of shelves efficiently while maintaining accuracy.
- I also find that paying attention to the little details—like making sure the books are perfectly aligned or noticing interesting titles—keeps the work engaging.
- Additionally, I view repetitive tasks as opportunities to improve my speed and accuracy over time, which motivates me to keep getting better.
- Set mini-goals
- Track Progress
- Find purpose
8
Q
“What would you do if you noticed a book that was out of place or damaged while shelving?”
A
- Return the book to it’s appropriate location and understand it’s inevitable as I could understand that many library visitors may not know how or even that the books are shelved in a specific order.
- Report damage to the most appropriate staff member
9
Q
“How would you handle a situation where a patron asks for help, but you’re unsure of the answer?”
A
- “I would first remain calm and polite to ensure they feel heard and supported.
- I’d say something like, ‘That’s a great question—let me double-check to make sure I give you the right information.’
- Then, I would either look for the answer using available resources as I know that one of NYPL’s core values is being resourceful or ask a more experienced staff member for assistance.
- My goal would be to help the patron as efficiently as possible while ensuring the information I provide is accurate.”
10
Q
“How would you help a library visitor who is looking for a specific book but isn’t sure where to find it?”
A
- Remain calm and focused and give them my full attention
- Assist by walking them through the process even if that includes physically walking them to another section of books and offering directions.
- Make sure they feel supported and ask follow up questions to make sure they are all set.
- When you can’t meet a customer’s needs, it is a good customer service practice to respond with something positive.
- Apologizing even if you aren’t responsible directly because you are acting on behalf of an organization
11
Q
previous customer service experience?
A
- haven’t had a formal customer service role yet but I have developed related strong communication and problem-solving skills through other experiences like school
- like working in group projects where we had to overcome conflicts with patience and teamwork and organizing events in my school’s club allowed me to interact with others professionally and helpfully
- I can adapt and learn quickly quickly and enjoy interacting with others and I am excited to use my transferable skills for this role and thrive in my first customer service experience
12
Q
“How would you ensure that the library environment is welcoming and inclusive for all patrons?”
A
- Focus on being approachable, patient, and respectful regardless of background, needs, etc.
- A welcoming environment starts with how we interact with others which I can do here by bringing a friendly demeanor and assist them in a non-judgemental way
- I know inclusivity means recognizing everyone has different needs especially as someone who had an IEP and is a first-gen low-income student which ensures I can be mindful of different learning styles and/or challenges others may have like finding materials that work for them.
- Encourage the use of eReaders/eBooks as someone who benefited from this from having an IEP, and other resources we have to offer.
- Be sensitive to cultural differences, language barriers, or age-related needs
- Ensure my goal would be to contribute to a space where everyone feels welcomed no matter who they are and feel comfortable asking questions and coming in.
13
Q
“This role involves interacting with library patrons. Can you tell us about a time when you helped someone or provided assistance in a way that made them feel supported?”
A
- Last semester I volunteered to assist one of my peers who seemed to feel overwhelmed with understanding some of the coursework so I helped them by breaking the material down the way I did and offered encouragement.
- This peer also had to use crutches to get around so I made sure to be patient with both when I had to help them out with the coursework and helping them get around and they felt less stressed.
- Overall, they seemed to feel more comfortable with the coursework and less stressed about getting from places to another.
14
Q
“This position requires you to be adaptable. How do you handle changes in a schedule or unexpected tasks?”
A
- I understand the flexibility and adaptability when it comes to this role.
- Growing up with an IEP and being put into a high school that wasn’t always a good fit for me academically has taught me how to adjust and adapt to different environments.
- My high school environment wasn’t the best fit for me, especially post-pandemic during 10th and 11th grade as I struggled with finding a balance and navigating the workload as all of my academic courses were honors.
- However, in 12th grade despite “senioritis” and how it matters “less” to colleges, I was still very determined and focused on improving and made a significant comebacks academically going from a 72.20 average in 11th grade to an 87.60 average in 12th grade with also no grades of a C or lower for the first time ever in high school. I did this by reorganizing my priorities, managing my time more effectively and using my resources when I needed to without direct assistance from others but rather a lot more independently.
- This experience has reinforced my perseverance, adaptability, and resilience which I can transfer these skills to the Library Page role as I am expecting to adjust to both the expected and even the unexpected. This experience has also allowed me to be more resourceful which I know is a core value of the NYPL.
15
Q
“How would you handle working with a team member you disagree with?”
A
- I’d approach the situation with an open mind
- Focus on understanding their perspective
- Communicate respectively
- Ask clarifying questions
- If it impacted our work: compromise/find a common ground
- If all fails: involve someone to mediate like a supervisor
Remember KEEPING professionalism and teamwork is VITAL
16
Q
“How would you handle a situation where a patron asks for help, but you’re unsure of the answer?”
A
- “I would first remain calm and polite to ensure they feel heard and supported.
- I’d say something like, ‘That’s a great question—let me double-check to make sure I give you the right information.’ ‘
- Then, I would either look for the answer using available resources as I know that one of NYPL’s core values is being resourceful or ask a more experienced staff member for assistance.
- My goal would be to help the patron as efficiently as possible while ensuring the information I provide is accurate.”
17
Q
“How would you ensure materials are shelved correctly?”
A
- Using strategies I have learned in the past as a library visitor to check the call number
- Breaking the number down using the Dewey Decimal system
- Check section by section
- Shelf reading
- I know that single letters come before combinations of letters and the dewey decimal system works like general decimals
- After shelving, I’d do a quick shelf-read to make sure everything around the book is in the correct order.
- If something seems off, I’d double-check the call number with the library’s system. This helps me stay organized and avoid small mistakes.”
18
Q
“How do you handle repetitive tasks while staying motivated?”
A
- I handle repetitive tasks by setting small goals for myself to stay focused and motivated. I actually enjoy it as I enjoy a routine.
For example, when shelving books, I might challenge myself to organize a certain number of shelves efficiently while maintaining accuracy. - I also find that paying attention to the little details—like making sure the books are perfectly aligned or noticing interesting titles—keeps the work engaging.
- Additionally, I view repetitive tasks as opportunities to improve my speed and accuracy over time, which motivates me to keep getting better.
- Set mini-goals
- Track Progress
- Find purpose
19
Q
What interests you about the Library Page position, and why do you think it’s a good fit for you?
A
- As someone who grew up w/ the NYPL, I first-handedly know how important it is to have free accessible resources to everyone regardless of their situation including financially as a first-generation low-income college student who also grew up with an IEP. My IEP was a resource that helped me graduate high school and has allowed me to realize how important it is to give everyone the resources they need. The NYPL’s mission to provide free books and other resources like tutoring resonates deeply with me.
- Whether it’s shelving materials, helping patrons find what they need, or assisting with technology, I see this role as an opportunity to support others in the same way the resources and support I had helped me which is why I would love to work in an environment where I can make a positive impact on others by being approachable and having a positive impact would be highly rewarding for me.
- I am also excited about the growth and learning opportunities this role offers like the Library Page Fellowship Program. As someone who is still exploring majors and undecided, I believe the career readiness, career goals, and mentorship will help me confidently pick a major and future corresponding career path.
20
Q
“if someone told u to take off the books from one shelf but someone said another shelf, which one would u do”
A
- ask for clarification about the instructions
- identify who has the final authority (ex: if one was a supervisor and another was a colleague)
- prioritze based on urgency if can’t clarify right away, do best guess based on urgency or aligns with general responsibilities
21
Q
“do you prefer working independently or in a group”
A
- enjoys BOTH depending on the task
- shelving books/organizing materials, I like working independently b/c it allows me to focus and be efficient
- working w/ a team especially when assistin patrons or setting up for events b/c collaboration makes things smoother and enjoyable
- being adaptable is important to any role and is comfy switching between workign alone and working w/ others
22
Q
Tell me about yourself
A
- Amy
- First-gen low-income college freshman
- faced many academic challenges
- these experiences have taught me to how to adapt, seek resources, and persevere
- b/c of this I know how important access to resources and support can be regardless of any barriers
- excited about this opportunity at nypl b/c of this
- believes in mission to welcome provide free accessible resoufces to all
- excited to bring adaptability, strong work ethic, and enthusiam with this role
23
Q
How would you prioritize your tasks in a busy environment?
A
- Break it down like how I breakdown assignments with schoolwork, focus on one step at a time
- Prioritize most immediate or time-sensitive tasks like helping a patron who needs help right away
- Organize remaining tasks like shelving tasks by how important they are or how long I would expect them to take
- This allows me to feel less likely to be overwhelmed and ensures I am organized and efficient
- check in with my colleagues when needed to ensure everuthing is going smoothly and in a timely manner
24
Q
Can you tell us how you would handle interacting with a patron who may have different needs or communication preferences than you are used to?
A
- understand that I’ll be interacting with a diverse range of patrons from various backgrounds and needs
- appreciate that as someone who comes from a disadvantaged background myself
- remain calm, polite, and give them all of my attention
- listen carefully and understand their needs by keeping an open mindset and not take anything personally
- ensure I am being respectful and empathetic
- proactive in asking follow-up questions which already do in academics to ensure i am providing the best assistance i can
25
elevator pitch
* **Hook**: brief statement that highlights something unqiue abt you
* **Key Strengths or Skills**: currently working on and top strengths (adaptability, resourcefulness, and communication)
* **Connect to Role**: how background/experiences makes me a good fit for the role (mportance of helping others & inclusive enviornment)
* **Forward-Focused Statement**: statement that shows enthusiasm and aligns w/ role (believing that a background help contibute to library's mission of free resources and helping others)
26
Questions to Ask THEM
* "What advice would you give someone who is just starting out?"
* “Can you tell me more about the Library Page Fellowship Program and how it supports career development?”
* “What does a typical day or week look like for a Library Page in this role?”
* “What challenges do Library Pages typically face in this position?”
