Hiring Freezes: What it Means for Us

Posted April 4, 2025 by Isabella Rodrigues

As I’m sure many of you know, most academic universities, non-profits, and federal institutions seem to be in some sort of limbo with their hiring. Of course, I’m speaking generally, but it seems when I send an application in for a post-graduate position, I receive an email back stating that the organization is on an indefinite hiring freeze due to the changes in the federal government. Many of my SLIS friends, peers, and coworkers are starting to worry. I won’t lie and say I might also be starting to worry. My managers at my library job have already sent check-ins (all appreciated), but it doesn’t help our collective anxiety much. The job market is not looking good and it is not our fault. I really don’t know what else there is to say. I think communally we will come through this and I know a lot of students graduating this year or even next year will feel a little left behind or angry. This is normal and there are always resources available if you need to talk to someone.

Of course, there are places not under a hiring freeze at the moment! And the freezes will lift eventually. It’s good to remember that. Here is some advice I have collected from librarians I work with. 

• Apply broadly! Even to things that are not your first choice! 
• Don’t be afraid to apply for jobs you don’t 100% match the requirements for!
• Don’t be afraid to apply for jobs with unfamiliar subject areas (i.e. library of science positions if you don’t know much about science) 
• It is completely okay and encouraged to negotiate your salary. 
• Your non-library jobs can help you round out your overall experience and impress future employers! 
• Use your cover letter to show that you read the job description. 
• And as always, make sure you check Jobline and the Simmons Career Education Center!