Application Fee
See agencyLibrarian Licensing in New York
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for librarian in New York, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Librarian in New York
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NYS Education Department • NYS Library, Division of Library Development • Public Librarian Certification
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$77,080 median (20% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#8 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in New York
With a median salary of 77,080, Librarians in New York earn 20% above the national median of $64,320. New York ranks #8 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$77,080Hourly estimate
$37.06Difference: +$12,760
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLibrarian Salary Ranking
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 94,400 |
| #2 | California | 86,590 |
| #3 | Maryland | 81,690 |
| #4 | Nevada | 79,710 |
| #5 | New Jersey | 79,380 |
Nearby States Comparison
Librarian licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $77,080 | Degree required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $60,230 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $75,790 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $76,380 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $79,380 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $60,120 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Vermont | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Massachusetts | 64 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Jersey | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Pennsylvania | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
NYS Education Department • NYS Library, Division of Library Development • Public Librarian Certification
Cultural Education Center, Room 10B41, Albany, NY, 12230
Phone: N/A
Related Careers in New York
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| K-12 Teacher | $82,480 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| School Counselor | $69,900 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $98,580 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $98,750 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Librarian in New York?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Librarians in New York?
New York lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Librarians.
What education do you need to become a Librarian in New York?
The board typically expects Degree required for Librarian licensure in New York.
What is the typical Librarian salary in New York?
The median annual salary for Librarians in New York is 77,080. Salaries range from $50,400 (10th percentile) to $128,500 (90th percentile).
How does the Librarian salary in New York compare to the national average?
Librarians in New York earn 20% above the national median of $64,320, with a state median of 77,080.
How many Librarians work in New York?
New York employs approximately 11,020 Librarians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Librarian license to New York from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Librarians in New York?
The licensing agency is NYS Education Department / NYS Library, Division of Library Development / Public Librarian Certification. Review agency details at http://www.op.nysed.gov/prof/.