At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and deliver a high-quality library service for prisoners.
- Company: Serco is dedicated to providing essential services that positively impact lives.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension scheme, and ongoing training in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful difference while working in a friendly, diverse team.
- Qualifications: Must have a Library Studies qualification and at least 12 months of relevant experience.
- Other info: Flexible working options available; we encourage applications from diverse backgrounds.
The predicted salary is between 23800 - 31700 £ per year.
HMP & YOI Doncaster is a Category B prison that predominantly serves the courts of South Yorkshire and currently holds up to 1,145 male prisoners over the age of 18. We are located in the centre of Doncaster Town Centre within walking distance of the railway station and bus station. As a resettlement prison, we work with our prisoners, particularly those serving less than 12 months, to ensure that they have the support they need for resettlement as well as access to the services and support available to them after release. Most of our prisoners are released back into South Yorkshire.
We are looking for a Librarian to join our team. The Librarian will contribute to the total quality of the prison for learners, staff, volunteers, visitors, and the community by managing and delivering a high-quality library service which meets the needs of the prisoners within budgeted resources and in compliance with the Contract. The Librarian is a member of the Reducing Re-Offending staff team, which will establish and maintain HMP Doncaster as the model of excellence for library services. At the direction of the Head of Education Skills and Work, the Librarian will work with relevant specialists and custody staff to contribute to the overall delivery of purposeful activities to the total prison population.
The Librarian will be expected to ensure that the books stocked reflect the diverse needs of the prison population and are appropriate in content. Service users on prison wings will receive timetabled library visits, providing books for those who are unable to attend, e.g., healthcare, vulnerable etc. The Librarian will keep records of library usage and carry out regular needs analysis surveys to establish and meet the needs of the prisoners. The Librarian will also actively promote prisoner development through the new IT systems and log these events accordingly on the relevant systems. Additionally, the Librarian will promote and schedule prisoners to the library, ensuring everyone has equal opportunity to access the library.
What You Need To Do The Job
The successful postholder will hold a qualification within Library Studies and will have at least 12 months experience in a similar role. Knowledge of filing systems and good IT skills are essential.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- Up to 6% contributory pension scheme
- Development and training whilst on the job
- An autonomous and supportive culture
- The chance to make a positive difference to public sector services
- Working in a tight-knit, friendly team environment
Why Serco
- Meaningful and vital work: The nature of our business means you will do interesting work that matters – delivering essential services that touch people's lives.
- A world of opportunity: Our diverse UK-wide operations offer unrivalled opportunities to learn and develop. You'll be able to broaden your experience and apply your skills in new ways.
- Great people: We are a motivated team who will encourage you and help you to succeed. You'll have the resources you need to do your job in a diverse and supportive environment.
Please click on the apply button to complete your application. Occasionally we receive a large volume of applications for our roles and when that happens we sometimes bring the closing date forward, so please apply promptly to avoid disappointment.
At Serco, we see people first and foremost for their performance and potential. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that supports the needs of all. As such, we will make reasonable adjustments at interview through to employment for our candidates and strongly encourage applications from a diverse candidate pool. We are open to discussions around flexibility and flexible working. We operate a hybrid work structure in many of our business areas. We are proudly Disability Confident Leader employers and holders of the Gold Inclusive Employer Standard. Disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the job will be given the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities at an interview.
At Serco, we support fair access to employment for those with unspent criminal convictions through the 'Ban the Box' pledge (some may be exempt due to the nature of the role and the security clearance required).
Librarian employer: Serco
Contact Detail:
Serco Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Librarian
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of the prison population at HMP Doncaster. Understanding the diverse backgrounds and requirements of the prisoners will help you demonstrate your ability to tailor library services effectively during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of library services, especially those who have experience working in correctional facilities. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals or recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss how you would promote literacy and educational development among prisoners. Think of innovative ideas that could enhance their access to library resources and support their resettlement journey.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the latest trends in library management systems and IT tools relevant to library services. Being knowledgeable about these technologies will show your commitment to improving library operations and engaging with the prison population effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Librarian
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in library services, particularly any work with diverse populations or in educational settings. Emphasise your qualifications in Library Studies and any specific skills that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also demonstrates your understanding of the role within a prison environment. Discuss how you can contribute to the resettlement goals of HMP Doncaster and support the needs of the prisoners.
Showcase Relevant Experience: In your application, provide examples of past roles where you've managed library services or worked with vulnerable groups. Highlight any initiatives you've led that improved access to library resources or promoted literacy.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a Librarian role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Serco
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of a Librarian in a prison setting. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the specific needs of HMP Doncaster.
✨Showcase Your IT Skills
Since the role involves promoting prisoner development through new IT systems, be ready to demonstrate your proficiency with library management software and any relevant IT tools. Share examples of how you've used technology to enhance library services in the past.
✨Emphasise Diversity Awareness
Highlight your understanding of the diverse needs of the prison population. Discuss how you would ensure that the library's resources are inclusive and cater to various interests and backgrounds, which is crucial for fostering a supportive environment.
✨Prepare Questions
Have thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. This could include inquiries about the library's current initiatives, how success is measured in this role, or opportunities for professional development within Serco.