At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage library operations, ensuring excellent customer service and community engagement.
- Company: Join a dynamic council team dedicated to enhancing community services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Flexible working across multiple library sites with opportunities for growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing leadership skills.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in library services and staff management experience required.
The predicted salary is between 33000 - 40000 £ per year.
Post Title: Library Manager
Grade: ME9 (SO1 equivalent)
Department: Community & Housing / Library, Heritage & Adult Education Service
Responsible to: Library Service Manager
Responsible for: Library staff, volunteers, and security staff at designated library site(s)
Location: Based at any library within the service (may be required to work across multiple sites)
Job Purpose
To lead and manage the day-to-day operations of a library service point, ensuring the delivery of a high-quality, customer-focused service that meets agreed standards and performance targets. The post holder will be responsible for managing staff, volunteers, resources, and the library building, while ensuring compliance with health and safety, safeguarding, and council policies. The role also requires driving service improvement, supporting digital inclusion, and working with local communities and stakeholders to enhance the library’s impact.
Leadership and Staff Management
- Manage, lead, and motivate library staff and volunteers to deliver excellent customer service
- Undertake supervision, 1:1s, appraisals, and performance management
- Manage rotas, staffing levels, and day-to-day deployment of staff and volunteers
- Provide training, coaching, and development opportunities for staff and volunteers
- Address performance issues and ensure consistent service standards are met
Service Delivery and Customer Experience
- Ensure the library provides a welcoming, accessible, and high-quality service to all users
- Maintain consistently high standards of customer care
- Deal with customer feedback, complaints, and service issues at a local level
- Promote digital services and support customers in using technology and online resources
Operational and Building Management
- Be responsible for the safe and effective running of the library building(s)
- Ensure compliance with health & safety, safeguarding, and council procedures
- Act as key holder and respond to emergencies as required
- Liaise with Facilities Management to ensure maintenance issues are resolved promptly
- Maintain accurate records relating to staff, services, and building operations
Performance Management and Service Improvement
- Set and monitor team objectives and service targets
- Track performance and implement corrective actions where necessary
- Contribute to service planning and continuous improvement initiatives
- Analyse data and use findings to improve local service delivery
- Support and implement new ways of working and service innovations
Community Engagement and Partnerships
- Develop strong relationships with local communities and stakeholders
- Support and promote local and national library campaigns and initiatives
- Work collaboratively with partner organisations, schools, and community groups
- Help extend the reach of library services through engagement and outreach activities
Budget and Resources
- Monitor assigned budgets and support income generation targets where applicable
- Ensure resources are used efficiently and in line with council policies
- Contribute to cost-effective service delivery
Communication and Reporting
- Ensure effective communication within the library team and across the service
- Cascade information from senior management to staff and volunteers
- Report on performance, issues, and achievements within required timescales
- Represent local service needs and feedback to management
Person Specification
Experience
- Minimum 2 years’ experience working within a library service
- Minimum 2 years’ experience managing staff, including supervision and performance management
- Experience of rota management, staff development, and training delivery
- Experience working in a customer-focused environment
Knowledge
- Understanding of public library services and their role in the community
- Awareness of how libraries support council priorities and community needs
- Understanding of performance management and service improvement frameworks
- Knowledge of health & safety and operational compliance in a public setting
Skills and Abilities
- Strong leadership and people management skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to manage competing priorities in a busy environment
- Strong organisational and planning skills
- Ability to analyse data and use it to improve services
- High level of IT competence and ability to use multiple systems
- Ability to motivate teams and drive performance improvement
- Customer-focused approach with strong problem-solving skills
Personal Attributes
- Proactive and solution-focused
- Committed to continuous improvement
- Able to work independently and take responsibility for decisions
- Flexible and adaptable to service needs
- Strong commitment to public service and community engagement
Summary
The Library Manager is responsible for leading a library service point, managing staff and operations, ensuring high-quality customer service, maintaining building safety and compliance, and driving continuous improvement in line with council priorities and community needs.
Library Manager – AR employer: Carrington Blake Recruitment
As a Library Manager within our Community & Housing department, you will thrive in a supportive and collaborative work culture that prioritises professional development and community engagement. We offer a range of benefits including flexible working arrangements across multiple library sites, opportunities for training and growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on local communities through innovative library services. Join us to lead a dedicated team in delivering exceptional customer service while fostering a love for reading and learning in a welcoming environment.
Contact Details:
Carrington Blake Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Library Manager – AR
✨Dive into Digital Learning Communities
Join online forums and communities focused on digital education, like EdTech Meetups or LinkedIn groups. Engage actively—share ideas and insights, and you'll not only learn a ton but also connect with potential employers and thought leaders in the industry.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Skills
Create content that demonstrates your understanding of digital learning—think blogs, videos, or even free online workshops. This could catch the eye of companies like Carrington Blake Recruitment looking for innovative thinkers. Plus, it’s a great way to practice your presentation skills!
✨Utilise University Career Services
If you're still in education or have access to an alumni network, make the most of your university's career services. They often have exclusive job listings and workshops tailored to students wanting to break into full-time roles in education technology.
✨Apply Directly Via Company Websites
When you come across roles like Library Manager – AR at Carrington Blake Recruitment, make sure to apply directly through their website. It not only shows you're serious but sometimes you'll find positions listed there that may not be on job boards yet. Keep an eye on those!
We think you need these skills to ace Library Manager – AR
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Learning:When applying for a role in digital learning and education at Carrington Blake Recruitment, make sure to sprinkle your application with examples of your enthusiasm for teaching and learning technologies. Share specific experiences where you've used, designed, or implemented digital learning solutions, as this shows us that you truly get the field.
Highlight Relevant Education and Certification:In the digital learning space, having a strong educational background can set you apart. Don't shy away from showcasing your degrees, certifications, or relevant courses related to e-learning, instructional design, or educational technology. We love seeing candidates who have actively invested in their learning journey!
Tailor Your CV to the Role:Your CV is your first impression, so let's make it count! Focus on your skills directly related to digital learning, such as course development, learning management systems, and data analysis. Be sure to show measurable results from your past roles to demonstrate your impact and effectiveness.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express not just your qualifications, but your vision for the future of digital education. Discuss how your experiences align with the mission of Carrington Blake Recruitment and highlight any innovative ideas you might have for enhancing learning experiences. This is your chance to connect with us on a deeper level!
How to prepare for a job interview at Carrington Blake Recruitment
✨Get Hands-On with Learning Technologies
Familiarise yourself with common digital learning tools and platforms, like LMS systems or authoring tools that Carrington Blake Recruitment might use. Understanding these will give you an edge and show you’re ready to jump in from day one!
✨Showcase Your Creativity in Lesson Design
Prepare a portfolio of your past projects if you have them, or create sample lesson plans or digital content demos. Being able to discuss your creative approach to engaging students can really set you apart in a full-time role at Carrington Blake Recruitment.
✨Brush Up on Educational Trends
Stay in the loop with the latest trends in digital education, like gamification or personalised learning experiences. This will help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview and demonstrate your passion for the field.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
Expect to be asked about your experience working collaboratively with educators or other stakeholders. Consider discussing how you've contributed to a team effort in creating engaging educational content or improving student outcomes.
