At a Glance
- Tasks: Support library services and engage with the community through fun activities.
- Company: East Lothian Council, dedicated to enhancing local library experiences.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and a vibrant work environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a difference in your community while working with children and families.
- Qualifications: Basic qualifications in English and Maths; experience with children is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 24600 - 26151 £ per year.
Ref no: EAL12268
Published: 20/02/2026
Closes: 08/03/2026
Location: Library HQ, East Lothian, EH41 3PJ, United Kingdom, Dunbar Road
Salary: £24,600 - £26,151 per year
Contract Type: Permanent
Position Type: Full Time
Hours: 35 hours per week
Hourly rate of pay: £13.48 - £14.33
Post 1 is based at Haddington Library, John Gray Centre
Post 2 is based at Musselburgh Library
You will be asked to indicate which post(s) you would like to be considered for when you complete the application form.
Days and Hours of Work: Monday - Friday, 09:00-13:00 & 14:00-17:00, 1 in 4 Saturdays, with time off in preceding week, 10:00-13:00. Flexi time is applicable. To start asap.
This is a busy and varied role supporting libraries across East Lothian. The successful candidate will be based at Haddington or Musselburgh library, and be expected to travel across East Lothian providing cover for absence, leave and to allow the staff teams to deliver community outreach. As such they may be working in a different location each day with a rota provided up to a week in advance where possible though there may be short notice changes at times.
Libraries are very popular with children and young people and the successful candidate will have experience of and enjoy working with them. Regular tasks include leading Bookbug song and rhyme sessions, sensory story times, code clubs and other groups for children and families. As such, candidates invited for interview will be expected to demonstrate their ability to share a nursery rhyme or song.
Libraries are warm spaces within local communities and offer opportunities to reduce social isolation by providing a welcoming atmosphere as well as group activities for adults.
The successful candidate will be required to help support customers access services online and as such they must have strong digital and communication skills.
Job Details:
- To Support the day to day delivery of front line customer and library services.
- Work flexibly across a number of locations as required.
Relevant Qualifications: A minimum of SVQ1/Standard Grade General level English/Maths or National 4 English/Maths or Literacy/Numeracy or Intermediate 1 Communication/Numeracy and/or able to demonstrate equivalent knowledge, skills and competencies gained through relevant experience.
PVG Membership: This post is considered as a Regulated Role with vulnerable children and/or protected adults, as specified in the Disclosure (Scotland) Act 2020. All preferred candidates for posts carrying out regulated work with these groups will be required to become a PVG Scheme member, or undergo a PVG Scheme update if they are already a member, prior to any formal offer of employment being made by East Lothian Council.
Please note: PVG member’s records are constantly updated with any new vetting information that arises. Any information that is disclosed on a PVG membership or update check, if relevant to the post being applied for, will be discussed with the applicant and investigated prior to any formal offer being made.
If you have spent more than 3 months working or living out with the UK in the last 5 years then you will be required to present a copy of an overseas criminal record check. Details of how to apply and contact details can be found on the website.
Additional Information:
For additional East Lothian Council employment information please click on the following link:
If you have any difficulties creating an account on MyJobScotland or applying for this post please contact the MyJobScotland support team via this link.
If you require further information about this vacancy, please call 01620 827868, or email us on recruitment@eastlothian.gov.uk
Please note: We do not accept CV's (either electronically or by mail). All our vacancies must be applied for by fully completing the on-line application form. Although there is an ‘import data from my CV’ function on MyJobScotland, this only imports very limited data and should not be relied upon to complete the application form. If, for example, due to a disability, you are unable to complete the on-line application form you can contact us for a paper application via the telephone number or email address above.
Library Assistant - 2 Positions Available - Haddington & Musselburgh Library - EAL12268 employer: eastlothian.gov.uk
East Lothian Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that values community engagement and personal development. As a Library Assistant, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in local communities across Haddington and Musselburgh, with flexible working hours and a focus on employee growth through various training and outreach initiatives. Join us to be part of a team that fosters creativity, reduces social isolation, and promotes lifelong learning in a welcoming atmosphere.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Library Assistant - 2 Positions Available - Haddington & Musselburgh Library - EAL12268
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the library scene in East Lothian! Familiarise yourself with the services and activities offered at Haddington and Musselburgh libraries. This will help you stand out during interviews when discussing how you can contribute to their community outreach.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your storytelling skills! Since you'll be leading sessions for children, pick a nursery rhyme or a short story and rehearse it. Make it engaging and fun – this will show your passion for working with kids during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your digital skills! Libraries are all about helping customers access services online, so be ready to discuss your experience with technology. Think of examples where you've helped others navigate digital platforms.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, make sure to highlight how your values align with the library's mission in your application form. We want to see your enthusiasm!
We think you need these skills to ace Library Assistant - 2 Positions Available - Haddington & Musselburgh Library - EAL12268
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, make sure to read through the job description thoroughly. It’s packed with important details about what we’re looking for, and it’ll help you tailor your application to show us why you’re the perfect fit!
Highlight Relevant Experience:When filling out the application form, don’t forget to showcase any experience you have that relates to working with children or in a library setting. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so be specific and give examples!
Demonstrate Your Skills:Since this role involves supporting customers with online services, make sure to highlight your digital and communication skills. We’re keen to know how you can help our community access library services effectively!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, we only accept applications through our website, so make sure to complete the online application form. It’s straightforward, and we promise it’s worth the effort to join our fantastic team!
How to prepare for a job interview at eastlothian.gov.uk
✨Know Your Libraries
Familiarise yourself with the specific libraries you're applying to, Haddington and Musselburgh. Understand their community roles and any recent events or initiatives they’ve hosted. This will show your genuine interest and help you connect with the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Skills with Kids
Since this role involves working with children, be prepared to demonstrate your ability to engage them. Practise sharing a nursery rhyme or song, as you might be asked to do this during the interview. Make it fun and interactive!
✨Highlight Your Digital Savvy
The job requires strong digital skills, so be ready to discuss your experience with technology. Think of examples where you've helped others access online services or used digital tools in previous roles. This will show you can support customers effectively.
✨Understand the Values
Review the values and behaviours expected by the employer. Be prepared to answer questions that reflect these values during your interview. Use specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate how you embody these traits.
