At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist library users, manage events, and maintain a welcoming environment.
- Company: Join Lambeth Council, a vibrant community-focused organisation in South London.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension scheme, discounts, and learning opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic team with opportunities for career growth and involvement in diverse staff networks.
- Why this job: Make a difference in your community while sharing your love for books.
- Qualifications: Passion for reading, IT skills, and a desire to help others.
The predicted salary is between 34359 - 35892 £ per year.
Scale 5: Starting salary £34,359 pro rata, pa rising in annual increment to £35,892 per annum incl LW. Permanent - Part Time Contract. 28 hours a week.
About Us
Located in the heart of South London, Lambeth Borough is a vibrant community of over 317,600 residents. Stretching from the dynamic neighbourhood of Streatham in the South to the iconic landmarks of Waterloo in the North, we are proud to be the 9th largest borough in London. Our diversity is our strength, with more than 130 languages spoken, making Lambeth the home of the Windrush generation, London’s largest LGBTQ+ community, and a thriving Portuguese-speaking community. It is an exciting time to join Lambeth Council, we have bold ambitions for the future of Lambeth’s communities and residents through our Lambeth 2030 Plan ‘Our Future, Our Lambeth.’ With exceptional schools, lush green spaces including Brockwell Park, cultural gems like the Black Cultural Archives, and world-renowned institutions such as St Thomas’s Hospital, Lambeth offers an enriching and dynamic environment.
About the Team
Lambeth Libraries have ten libraries spread across the borough. The libraries are well-used, supporting people of all ages. Our staff are passionate about encouraging a love of reading, helping people get online and learn new skills. We run many events and activities from weekly Wriggle and Rhyme groups for babies and small children to festivals with high-profile authors. We encourage staff to be involved in the wider library network and develop their knowledge of books, customer skills and the digital world so they can further their career in libraries or use their learning as part of a wider career path.
About the Role
Do you enjoy helping people? Do you love books and reading? Are you confident in using IT? As an Assistant Librarian you will help people of all ages using our busy libraries. Duties will include helping customers find books and use IT, supporting events and promotions, stock-work and keeping the library tidy and welcoming. You will need to be able to cope with the physical demands of the job (lifting, moving furniture, moving around the library to help library customers access materials and services). You will be responsible for locking up the library and supervising staff when a more senior member of staff is not on duty. This is a frontline role within Lambeth Libraries, working Monday to Saturday between the hours of 9:00am and 6:00pm across Brixton, Carnegie, Minet, Durning and Upper Norwood libraries.
How to Apply
To be considered for interview, your CV and supporting statement will clearly evidence how you meet the shortlisting criteria on the personal specification marked ‘A’ for application. We operate an anonymised application process, so be sure to remove personal details when uploading your CV or personal statement. Advert close date: 11:59pm on Wednesday 3 June 2026.
Staff Benefits
- Participation in our 5 Staff Networks: Black, Asian and Multi-Ethnic, LGBTQ+, Disability, Young Professionals, and Women’s.
- Generous annual leave entitlement starting from 27 days, increasing to up to 35 days depending on length of service.
- Membership in the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- Discounts at local restaurants.
- Discount at our Active Lambeth Gyms.
- Learning and Development opportunities, including Apprenticeships.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
- Secure Bike Storage facilities at our Town Hall and Civic Centre.
- Trade Union Membership.
Successful candidates will be asked to apply for a Basic Certificate from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). You will be required to undertake a Cifas check.
Contact Information
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Susanna Barnes at sbarnes@lambeth.gov.uk. At Lambeth, we are dedicated to providing quality services and equal opportunities for all. We are committed to safer recruitment and are proud to be a Stonewall diversity champion, a Living Wage Employer, and to guarantee interviews for all disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria of the role.
Assistant Librarian employer: Borough of Lambeth
Lambeth Council is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant and diverse community of South London, offering a supportive work culture that values inclusivity and employee development. As an Assistant Librarian, you will enjoy generous annual leave, participation in various staff networks, and opportunities for professional growth through learning and development initiatives. With a commitment to community engagement and a focus on enriching the lives of residents, Lambeth Libraries provide a fulfilling environment for those passionate about helping others and fostering a love of reading.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Librarian
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the libraries in Lambeth! Visit them, chat with staff, and understand their vibe. This will help you connect during interviews and show your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your IT skills! As an Assistant Librarian, you'll be helping people with tech. Familiarise yourself with common library software and online resources to impress during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for reading and community engagement! Think of examples where you've helped others or organised events. This will highlight your fit for the role and the values of Lambeth Libraries.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the Lambeth team and contributing to our vibrant community.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Librarian
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Assistant Librarian role. Highlight relevant experience, especially in customer service and IT skills, as these are key for us at Lambeth Libraries.
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement:Your supporting statement should clearly show how you meet the shortlisting criteria. Use specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your passion for helping people and love for books.
Follow the Anonymised Process:Remember, we operate an anonymised application process. So, be sure to remove any personal details from your CV and supporting statement before uploading them. This helps us focus on your skills and experience!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups!
How to prepare for a job interview at Borough of Lambeth
✨Know Your Libraries
Familiarise yourself with the Lambeth Libraries and their services. Understand the community they serve and the events they host. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you connect with the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Prepare examples of how you've helped customers in previous roles. Highlight your ability to assist people of all ages, especially in finding books or using IT. This is crucial for an Assistant Librarian, so make sure to emphasise your passion for helping others.
✨Demonstrate IT Confidence
Since the role requires IT skills, be ready to discuss your experience with technology. Mention any specific software or systems you've used, and be prepared to explain how you can help library users navigate digital resources.
✨Understand the Physical Demands
Be honest about your ability to handle the physical aspects of the job, like lifting and moving furniture. If you have experience in similar environments, share that. It’s important to show that you’re ready for the practical side of being an Assistant Librarian.
