At a Glance
- Tasks: Support fun activities for kids like storytime, crafts, and games at the library.
- Company: Whitworth Library is a community hub focused on engaging local families and tackling social isolation.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, receive training, and have travel expenses reimbursed.
- Why this job: Share your love for reading while making a positive impact in children's lives.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, reliable, and enjoy working with children; training provided.
- Other info: Flexible schedule based on library events; contact staff before applying.
You will be supporting staff with activities such as Baby Bounce and Rhyme, Storytime, Reading Groups, Drama events, Craft activities, Digital Learning/Creative Sessions, Games Sessions, Homework Sessions and Children’s Craft Activities, as well as providing information and knowledge for enquiries.
Lancashire libraries care and cater for the needs of their local communities and are recognised as a safe space and often the main community hub. The library service is continually involved with new projects to ensure they provide what is needed locally for all ages. By running regular events and acting as the venue for many other local groups’ activities, they endeavour to help tackle the issues leading to social isolation. The need for volunteers to help assist the service, by helping under supervision to provide many of the activities and projects, is vital.
What are we offering to you?
- An opportunity to share your love of reading and working with children and young people
- An introduction programme and a designated member of staff as a contact for assistance and feedback
- Training and support
- An opportunity you can include on your CV
- Reimbursement of travel expenses.
Before applying – Please contact a member of staff at Whitworth Library before applying for further guidance. The volunteer will be required on selected dates on an ad hoc basis, dependent on events taking place at the library that require support. Specific dates and times are flexible and can be decided between the library and volunteer, dependent on availability.
Baby, Bounce and Rhyme, Toddler rhyme time, Story Time sessions: Assisting staff to set up the area for sessions, welcoming attendees, organizing prams, arranging chairs, singing set songs, reading chosen books, and tidying up after sessions.
Craft, Games and drama event: Assisting with the preparation of craft/drama materials, setting up the area for sessions, welcoming attendees, assisting children with activities, and tidying up afterwards.
Reading groups: Engaging a group of not more than ten pupils aged 9 – 11 and guiding discussions and activities based on the book or theme set for that month. The volunteer must enjoy reading and commit to reading one book per month.
Other activities: in agreement with staff at the library.
What are we asking for from you?
- Regular attendance at an agreed time
- A positive attitude towards young people
- Compliance with library rules and regulations
- Adherence to the Volunteer Acceptable Use Guidelines
- Logging volunteering hours monthly and submitting expenses where applicable via an online system
- Completion of minimum level training, e.g., safeguarding, and commitment to further training relevant to the role
Required Qualities:
- Good communicator
- Patience and understanding
- Confidence when dealing with children and young people
- Ability to patiently guide and instruct children and young people
- Ability to get to know children and understand their interests and motivations
- Friendly and approachable
- Reliable and committed
Training: Training will be provided where necessary and may be in the form of peer support, distance learning, or trainer-led sessions. Volunteers must complete the required training before any activity can be undertaken and may be asked to refresh training regularly.
Required Age: 18 years +
Schedule: Flexible schedule based on events at the library.
Apply for this role
If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact the Volunteer Co-ordinator for a chat, or click apply now.
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Supporting Library Activities for Children - Whitworth Library employer: Lancashire Volunteer Partnership
Contact Detail:
Lancashire Volunteer Partnership Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Supporting Library Activities for Children - Whitworth Library
✨Tip Number 1
Before applying, reach out to a member of staff at Whitworth Library for a chat. This will not only give you valuable insights into the role but also show your genuine interest in the position.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the types of activities mentioned in the job description, such as Baby Bounce and Rhyme or Storytime. Being knowledgeable about these activities will help you stand out during any discussions with library staff.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your passion for working with children by volunteering in similar roles or participating in community events. This experience can be a great talking point when you meet with library staff.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your availability and flexibility, as the role requires attendance on selected dates. Showing that you can adapt to the library's needs will make you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Supporting Library Activities for Children - Whitworth Library
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read through the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and required qualities. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience and enthusiasm for working with children.
Contact the Library: Before applying, reach out to a member of staff at Whitworth Library for guidance. This shows initiative and can provide you with valuable insights that can strengthen your application.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience working with children or in community settings. Mention specific activities you have been involved in that relate to the role, such as reading groups or craft sessions.
Show Your Passion: Express your love for reading and working with young people in your application. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to fostering a positive environment for children.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancashire Volunteer Partnership
✨Show Your Passion for Reading
Make sure to express your love for reading and working with children during the interview. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your enthusiasm, as this role is all about engaging young minds.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be interacting with children and their families, it's crucial to showcase your communication skills. Practice explaining activities clearly and engagingly, as well as showing patience and understanding in your responses.
✨Be Prepared to Discuss Activities
Familiarise yourself with the types of activities mentioned in the job description, such as Baby Bounce and Rhyme or craft sessions. Be ready to discuss how you would assist with these activities and any ideas you might have to enhance them.
✨Ask Questions About the Role
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer about the library's community involvement and upcoming projects. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute effectively.