At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist customers, manage enquiries, and support library events in a vibrant community space.
- Company: Join East Sussex Libraries, a welcoming hub for learning and connection.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, travel costs covered, and full training provided.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities to work across various libraries in East Sussex.
- Why this job: Make a difference in your community while gaining valuable skills and experience.
- Qualifications: Customer service skills and a willingness to learn; library experience not required.
Do you have a passion for customer service and a keenness to learn about our libraries? If so, we would like to hear from you! The modern library is more than an opportunity to borrow a free book. We are open to all members of the community, who visit our libraries with a wide range of needs such as getting online, job-seeking, health and well-being, and national and local information. We also work in partnership with a number of different organisations, some based in our buildings and others visiting to hold sessions.
As a Library Assistant, your duties will include staffing the customer counter, answering a wide range of enquiries, and maintaining our service provision. You will perform routine tasks such as answering phone calls, issuing items to customers, cash handling, and organising files. You will also be required to support library events, such as children’s events over the summer, and weekly events, such as Rhymetimes and Storytimes.
Key to the Library Assistant role is being able to signpost people to what they are seeking. Knowledge and experience of working in a library is not essential as full training will be provided. The ability to be flexible is essential, as you will be required to work at other libraries in East Sussex, for which travel costs from your base are covered.
We are looking for candidates who:
- Have customer service and communication skills
- Have ICT skills and an interest in further development
- Work well in a team
- Are self-motivated
- Can undertake manual handling tasks
Work rota:
Week 1: Tues 10am - 5pm, Weds 10am - 1pm, Thurs 10.30am - 6pm, Friday 9.30am - 5pm
Week 2: Tues 1pm - 5pm, Thurs 10.30am - 6pm, Friday 10am - 5pm, Sat 10am - 5pm
To apply for the role, please click the apply now button and upload your CV with a supporting statement. We will be using your supporting statement to shortlist, so please be sure to address how you meet all of the essential criteria listed in the job description. You may draw upon any relevant work/life experience, education, or personal interests to do so. Your supporting statement should be no more than 2000 words long and must also describe how you would travel to other libraries when required.
In-person interviews will be held at Hastings Library within 2 weeks of the closing date. For an informal discussion, please contact Sarah Boreham, Library Manager, on 01424 725431. Candidates who meet certain criteria are given priority when we shortlist.
We offer a diverse range of benefits to help and support you during your employment. More information can be found on our benefits page.
For work that makes a difference, choose East Sussex!
Library Assistant - Hastings employer: East Sussex County Council
East Sussex Libraries is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values customer service and community engagement. As a Library Assistant in Hastings, you will benefit from comprehensive training, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for personal growth while contributing to meaningful library services that enrich the lives of local residents. With a commitment to employee well-being and a diverse range of benefits, East Sussex Libraries is dedicated to fostering a rewarding and inclusive workplace.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Library Assistant - Hastings
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the library scene in Hastings! Visit the libraries, chat with staff, and understand what they do. This will not only help you during interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer service skills! Whether it’s volunteering or just helping out at community events, any experience where you interact with people will boost your confidence and make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to highlight your flexibility! Since the job requires working at different libraries, be sure to mention any past experiences where you adapted to new environments or schedules.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Make sure your supporting statement is tailored to the job description, showing how you meet the essential criteria.
We think you need these skills to ace Library Assistant - Hastings
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Customer Service:Make sure to highlight your enthusiasm for helping others in your supporting statement. We want to see how you can connect with our community and make their library experience enjoyable!
Tailor Your Supporting Statement:Address each of the essential criteria listed in the job description. We’re looking for specific examples from your work or life that demonstrate your skills and experiences, so don’t hold back!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Remember, your supporting statement should be no more than 2000 words. Be clear and to the point while ensuring you cover all the important aspects of your background that relate to the role.
Don’t Forget About Travel Plans:Since flexibility is key for this role, make sure to include how you would travel to other libraries when needed. This shows us you’re ready to take on the responsibilities of the job!
How to prepare for a job interview at East Sussex County Council
✨Know Your Libraries
Before the interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with the local libraries and their services. Understanding what they offer will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Highlight Customer Service Skills
Since customer service is key for this position, think of specific examples from your past experiences where you've excelled in helping others. Be ready to share these stories during the interview to demonstrate your skills.
✨Prepare for Flexibility Questions
As the role requires flexibility in working at different libraries, be prepared to discuss how you would manage travel and adapt to various environments. Showing that you're adaptable will make a great impression.
✨Craft a Strong Supporting Statement
Your supporting statement is crucial for shortlisting. Make sure it clearly addresses how you meet the essential criteria listed in the job description. Use relevant experiences and keep it concise, aiming for clarity and impact.
