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- Tasks: Supervise reader services and staff during evenings and weekends at iconic libraries.
- Company: Join the prestigious Bodleian Libraries, known for its inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of annual leave, a great pension scheme, and flexible working hours.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a collaborative team while enhancing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths, library experience, and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Diverse and friendly environment with excellent career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 13 - 16 £ per hour.
You will play a key role in supervising reader services, staff and library premises during evenings and weekends at the Bodleian Old Library and Radcliffe Camera. Working closely with the Reader Services Manager, you will act as a knowledgeable point of contact for readers and staff, handling complex enquiries and ensuring high-quality service delivery outside core weekday hours. You will supervise Library Assistants on duty, support the smooth running of reading rooms, contribute to staff training, and take responsibility for the building and services when acting up as the Reader Services Manager.
This is a permanent, part-time post, working an average of 9.63 hours per week. The working pattern is one fixed weekday evening (Monday) per week, one Friday evening in four, and alternate Sundays. This role requires lifting and carrying books, pushing trolleys, and using ladders and kick stools to access shelving.
About You
You will have a good general education, with GCSEs in English and Mathematics at Grade C or above or equivalent experience. You will bring excellent interpersonal and communication skills, confidence in dealing with a wide range of readers and colleagues, and the ability to make sound decisions and remain calm under pressure. You will have experience of working in a library or similar customer-focused environment, supervising staff, and using library systems and IT applications. You will be flexible, reliable, and able to work evenings and weekends as part of a small, collaborative team.
Benefits
- An excellent contributory pension scheme
- 38 days of annual leave (pro rata)
- A comprehensive range of childcare services
- Family leave schemes
- Cycle loan scheme
- Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
The Bodleian Libraries staff and students come from all over the world, and they proudly promote a friendly and inclusive culture. Diversity is positively encouraged, through diverse groups and champions, as well as a number of family-friendly policies, such as support for staff returning from periods of extended absence, for example, shared parental leave.
The University of Oxford is committed to ensuring that the recruitment processes is inclusive and accessible. If you require the job description or any other materials in an alternative format, or if you would like to request any adjustments to support you through the application or interview process, please contact the recruitment team at recruitment@glam.ox.ac.uk.
How To Apply
You will be required to upload your CV and a supporting evidence form using the attached template as part of your online application. Your supporting evidence form should list each of the essential and desirable selection criteria, as listed in the job description, and explain how you meet each one. Both documents must be submitted to be considered. Only applications received online by 12.00 midday (GMT) on Monday 9th February 2026 can be considered. Interviews are expected to take place on Thursday 26th February 2026.
Reader Services Supervisor in Kidlington employer: Experience Oxfordshire
Contact Detail:
Experience Oxfordshire Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Reader Services Supervisor in Kidlington
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at the Bodleian Libraries on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to reader services. We recommend role-playing with a friend to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your library experience! Think of specific examples where you've handled complex enquiries or supervised staff. We want to hear how you’ve made a difference in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at the Bodleian Libraries.
We think you need these skills to ace Reader Services Supervisor in Kidlington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start writing, give the job description a good read. We want to see how your skills and experiences match what they're looking for, so make notes on key points that resonate with you.
Tailor Your CV and Supporting Evidence Form: Don’t just send the same old CV! We recommend customising it to highlight your relevant experience in library services and supervision. Use the supporting evidence form to clearly show how you meet each selection criterion.
Show Off Your Interpersonal Skills: This role is all about communication and teamwork. Make sure to include examples of how you've successfully interacted with readers and colleagues in past roles. We love seeing those soft skills shine through!
Submit Your Application Online: Once you're happy with your application, head over to our website to submit it. Remember, both your CV and supporting evidence form need to be uploaded by the deadline, so don’t leave it to the last minute!
How to prepare for a job interview at Experience Oxfordshire
✨Know Your Library Stuff
Make sure you brush up on library systems and services before the interview. Familiarise yourself with the Bodleian Old Library and Radcliffe Camera, as well as any recent changes in reader services. This will show your enthusiasm and knowledge about the role.
✨Show Off Your People Skills
Since this role involves dealing with a wide range of readers and staff, be prepared to discuss your interpersonal skills. Think of examples where you've successfully handled complex enquiries or resolved conflicts. This will demonstrate your ability to remain calm under pressure.
✨Highlight Your Supervisory Experience
Be ready to talk about your experience supervising staff in a library or similar environment. Share specific instances where you contributed to staff training or improved service delivery. This will help the interviewers see you as a strong candidate for the supervisory aspect of the role.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Given that the job involves physical tasks like lifting books and using ladders, expect questions about your ability to handle these responsibilities. Be honest about your experience and readiness to perform these tasks, and consider discussing any relevant safety practices you follow.
