At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist with library collections, cataloguing, and supporting the CCI community.
- Company: Join a friendly team at the David Attenborough Building in Cambridge.
- Benefits: Reimbursed travel expenses and flexible volunteering hours.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity conservation while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: No specialist knowledge needed, just enthusiasm and strong IT skills.
- Other info: Open to all backgrounds; we value diversity and inclusion.
About the Library
The David Attenborough Building is a globally recognised conservation campus in the heart of Cambridge. It houses the Cambridge Conservation Initiative (CCI), a unique collaboration between leading environmental organisations and the University of Cambridge. CCI Services Ltd manages the operations of this space, including the A.G. Leventis Library. We are a small, friendly team dedicated to delivering a welcoming, collaborative, and highly sustainable environment for the organisations based here. The A.G. Leventis Library is a hub of knowledge and information services for the CCI community. The Library houses material that partners need to inform their conservation research and practice, and offers a quiet, studious working space. In addition to the collections, the Library acts as a first point of call for members of the CCI community with information needs or enquiries.
Responsibilities
- The volunteer role holder will assist with the collections-related work of the Leventis Library under the supervision of the Leventis Library Manager. Full training will be given on the main tasks of this volunteer role.
- Entering item details in the library database (cataloguing) and assigning spine labels to place items in the most suitable section of the library (classifying).
- Receiving new issues of serial publications (journals, magazines, etc.) that arrive by post, and adding them to the library catalogue.
- Shelving and shelf tidying.
- Searching for lists of items on the library shelves.
- Recording in-library usage of resources.
- Displaying new publications.
- Assisting in the removal of out-of-date resources.
- Other collections-related activities which match your skills and interests as agreed with the Leventis Library Manager.
Availability
This role requires weekly availability on Tuesday and/or a Thursday day, for at least a few hours. We will be grateful for any time that you can give, so do not let it put you off if you are only available on one of these days; we may be able to recruit multiple volunteers with differing availability. The start date is flexible (from late April 2026), as are the start and finish times each day.
Who This Role May Suit
Due to safeguarding and insurance considerations, we are currently only able to accept expressions of interest from volunteers over the age of 18. This role could suit someone at an early stage in their career who is looking to build skills and gain experience, as well as experienced professionals who would like to use their knowledge to give back and support our work.
Qualifications
No specialist subject knowledge is required. The most important thing to us is your enthusiasm for making our collections more discoverable and more useful to the CCI community, so that partners can find the information they need to achieve CCI's mission to 'transform the global understanding and conservation of biodiversity to secure a sustainable future for all life on Earth'. We welcome applicants from a range of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives, and we value both enthusiasm and lived or professional experience. The only attributes required for this role are:
- Strong IT literacy.
- Good organisational skills.
- Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Benefits
We will reimburse out-of-pocket travel expenses incurred as part of your volunteer role, within agreed limits. We want volunteering with us to be accessible to everyone. If you require any adjustments or accommodations at any stage of the application or selection process, let us know. We welcome the opportunity to discuss how we can support you. All information shared will be treated confidentially. We want everyone to feel able to apply and to participate fully.
Volunteer Collections Assistant (Part Time, Voluntary) in Cambridge employer: Cambridge Conservation Initiative (CCI) Services Limited
Contact Detail:
Cambridge Conservation Initiative (CCI) Services Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Collections Assistant (Part Time, Voluntary) in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the library and its mission! Familiarise yourself with the A.G. Leventis Library and the Cambridge Conservation Initiative. This will help you connect your passion for conservation with the role, making you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past volunteers and staff at the library. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the role!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! When you get the chance, highlight your IT literacy and organisational skills. Share examples of how you've used these in past experiences, even if they’re from different contexts. It’s all about making those connections!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to make the application process as smooth as possible for you. By applying directly, you’ll ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s a great way to show your enthusiasm for joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Collections Assistant (Part Time, Voluntary) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm: When writing your application, let your passion for conservation and libraries shine through! We want to see your excitement about making collections more discoverable for the CCI community.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. Mention any relevant IT skills or organisational abilities that would make you a great fit for our team.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and focus on what makes you a strong candidate for the Volunteer Collections Assistant position.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cambridge Conservation Initiative (CCI) Services Limited
✨Know the Library Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research the A.G. Leventis Library and the Cambridge Conservation Initiative. Familiarise yourself with their mission and the types of resources they offer. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you connect your skills to their needs.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
This role is all about passion for conservation and making information accessible. Be sure to express your enthusiasm for the library's mission during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or personal stories that highlight your commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
✨Highlight Your Organisational Skills
Since the role involves cataloguing and managing collections, be prepared to discuss your organisational skills. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed tasks or projects, and how those skills can benefit the library.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the training process, the team culture, or how volunteers can make a meaningful impact. Asking insightful questions shows that you're engaged and serious about contributing to the library's work.