At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist customers with library services, events, and IT support while ensuring smooth library operations.
- Company: Join Bristol's flagship Central Library and be part of a vibrant community hub.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible weekend hours, and the chance to make a difference.
- Other info: Part-time role with opportunities for personal growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Share your passion for books and help others discover the joy of reading.
- Qualifications: Customer-focused attitude and a love for helping people.
Overview
Part Time, Fixed Term Contract to 31st March 2027. This is an exciting opportunity to join the team at Bristol’s flagship Central Library as a weekend Library Assistant.
Are you passionate about books and reading? Would you like to help people get online and navigate the internet? Do you enjoy helping people find the information they need? Do you want to work at the heart of the community providing a vital public service to all?
Are you committed to the ethos of public libraries and encouraging people to get the maximum benefit from our library service and facilities?
If so, then we want you to come and join our friendly team. We need customer-focused people to help us run and develop a high-quality service at Bristol Central Library.
This post is not available for job share and availability for all specified sessions is required. The role is not suitable for home working or hybrid working, as they are required to be physically present in Central Library.
Job details
Location: Central Library, College Green, City Centre, Bristol BS1 5TL
Salary: BG7: £26,824 - £28,142 pro rata
Contractual hours: 10.5 Basis Part time
Hours/ Session pattern: 10.5 hours per week across weekends (see specific weekly patterns below).
All posts are subject to a Standard Disclosure and Barring Service basic disclosure check.
Responsibilities
- You will carry out a diverse range of tasks with no two days being the same, helping customers to get the most out of their libraries.
- You will help customers find specific titles and reserving them, deal with new membership, signpost customers to websites for information, book customers on to IT support sessions or author events, prepare and deliver story-time and singing sessions for babies and toddlers and encourage children to join reading activities.
- You will also undertake tasks to ensure the smooth running of the libraries: processing new stock using our library computer system, dealing with email and phone enquiries, cashing up and associated processes, unpacking and sorting items arriving in crates from around the city and liaising with contractors arriving on site for maintenance and repairs.
- Manual handling, display screen equipment, and other training will be given, to ensure tasks are carried out safely.
- Period details: Weekend working patterns are provided below.
Working hours
- Week 1- Saturday 10:00-17:00, Sunday 12:30-17:00.
- Week 2 – Saturday 09:30-17:00, Sunday 13:00-17.00.
- Week 3 – Saturday 10:00-17:00, Sunday 12:30-17:00.
- Week 4 - Saturday 09.30-17.00, Sunday 13:00-17:00.
Requirements and additional information
- All posts are subject to a Standard Disclosure and Barring Service basic disclosure check.
- To be shortlisted for interview you’ll need to demonstrate how you meet each of the essential criteria in the Person Specification within the Further Information section of your application.
- We are a Disability Confident employer and welcome applications from disabled people who meet the essential criteria and are guaranteed an interview. Reasonable adjustments will be provided.
- We particularly welcome applications from under-represented groups within this service.
- For more information about these roles please email Marisa Fish, marisa.fish@bristol.gov.uk.
Library Assistant Weekend in Bristol employer: BRISTOL CITY COUNCIL
Join the vibrant team at Bristol's Central Library, where your passion for books and community service will thrive. As a Library Assistant, you'll enjoy a supportive work culture that values diversity and encourages personal growth, all while providing essential services to the public. With a commitment to fostering a love for reading and learning, this role offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the heart of Bristol.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Library Assistant Weekend in Bristol
✨Get to Know the Company Culture
Before jumping into applications, it’s super helpful to understand the vibe at BRISTOL CITY COUNCIL. Check out their social media, read reviews on sites like Glassdoor, and see how they engage with customers. It'll give you clues on their values and help tailor your conversation during interviews.
✨Join Customer Support Communities
Dive into online communities like those on Reddit or LinkedIn where customer support pros hang out. Participating in discussions or asking questions can make you more visible to potential recruiters and help you learn about job openings at companies like BRISTOL CITY COUNCIL before they even post them.
✨Attend Job Fairs or Networking Events
Look out for local job fairs or events specifically for customer support roles. This is your chance to meet hiring managers face-to-face, and you might even get the opportunity to interview on the spot!
✨Show Off Your Skills with Customer Interactions
In the customer support world, showcasing your communication skills is key. Consider creating a short video introducing yourself or even doing a mock call to showcase your abilities. It's a memorable way to stand out, especially if you can share this during your interview process!
We think you need these skills to ace Library Assistant Weekend in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Communication Skills:In customer support, clear communication is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you've had in customer-facing roles and your ability to resolve issues. Don't shy away from including specific examples of how you've gone above and beyond to help customers – this really shows your potential in the role.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to BRISTOL CITY COUNCIL:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you want to work at BRISTOL CITY COUNCIL specifically. Mention any unique aspects of our company that resonate with you and how your skills can enhance our customer support. This personal touch will set your application apart from the rest!
Highlight Any Relevant Tools or Tech Skills:If you've used customer support software like Zendesk or Freshdesk or have experience with CRM systems, make sure to mention these in your application. Being familiar with industry-standard tools can be a big plus for us when we’re reviewing applications, as it shows you can hit the ground running!
Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Skills:Customer support roles often require a knack for problem-solving. In your application, share examples of past experiences where you've tackled tough situations or resolved conflicts effectively. This will give us a good sense of how you handle challenges—an essential skill for success at BRISTOL CITY COUNCIL!
How to prepare for a job interview at BRISTOL CITY COUNCIL
✨Show Off Your People Skills
In customer support, it's all about communicating effectively. Prepare to share instances from your past experiences where you handled difficult customers or resolved conflicts. We want to hear how you empathised and found the best solutions, so think of specific examples to back up your stories!
✨Know the Tools of the Trade
Familiarise yourself with common customer support tools like Zendesk or Freshdesk, and make sure to review how you’ve used any similar systems in the past. During the interview, being able to discuss your hands-on experience with software or ticketing systems can really set you apart from the competition, so don’t skip this prep!
✨Show Genuine Enthusiasm
As this is a full-time role, employers want someone who isn’t just looking for any job, but wants to grow within customer support. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for helping customers and your desire to develop your skills. Show them why you're passionate about this field!
✨Practice Common Scenarios
Be prepared for role-playing scenarios where you might have to reassess a solution with a frustrated customer or explain a complex process in simple terms. Practising these common scenarios can help us feel more confident and demonstrate our practical skills effectively during the interview.
