At a Glance
- Tasks: Support access to Shakespeare's renowned collections through cataloguing and public engagement.
- Company: Join the iconic Shakespeare’s Globe, a cultural hub on the River Thames.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are key; all backgrounds encouraged to apply.
- Why this job: Engage with diverse audiences and help preserve Shakespeare's legacy for future generations.
- Qualifications: Degree in library science or equivalent experience; library work experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 33538 - 33538 £ per year.
Salary: £33,538 Per Annum
Location: London
Closing date for applications: 10am on Wednesday 17th June 2026
Support access to one of the world’s most renowned Shakespeare collections through cataloguing, research support and public engagement.
Shakespeare’s Globe is a world‑renowned performing arts venue, cultural attraction and education centre located on the bank of the River Thames in London. Shakespeare’s Globe is currently seeking a Librarian on a permanent full‑time basis.
The Library & Archive team manages the Globe’s extensive collections of books, manuscripts, performance records and organisational archives that document the Globe's history and Shakespeare scholarship. The department provides research support for Globe productions and educational programmes whilst maintaining public access to our collections. The Librarian will be part of a team comprising a Library & Archive Manager, Collections Manager, Digital Archivist, Archivist, and Library & Archive Co-ordinator, supporting both internal research needs and external researchers, students, and members of the public.
The role:
To catalogue and support access to Shakespeare's Globe Library collections, ensuring our resources serve diverse audiences and break down barriers to cultural participation. You will lead on helping people engage with our library collections by creating welcoming, inclusive pathways for scholars, students, artists, and members of the public to explore and critically examine Shakespeare’s living legacy. This role combines hands‑on collection management to catalogue and develop our library collections for the future, with proactive outreach as we work to position the Globe's Library & Archive as a community resource that reflects and serves the full spectrum of voices engaging with Shakespeare's work today.
The skills:
- An accredited degree or postgraduate qualification in library and information science, or equivalent qualification, or experience that supports the skills and abilities required.
- Experience of working in a library.
- Knowledge or experience of cataloguing standards such as MARC21, AARC2, Dublin Core and RDA.
- Knowledge of cataloguing software packages and current technological innovations in librarianship and information management.
- Rare books curatorial/management experience and/or knowledge.
- Special Collections curatorial/management experience and/or knowledge.
- Ability to work to a high level of accuracy and to tight deadlines.
- Good communication skills with the ability to deal effectively with people at all levels.
- Good attention to detail.
- Good teamworking skills.
- Awareness of copyright legislation.
To apply: For more information, please download the job description. To apply, please complete the online application form. If you have any questions about the application form of the recruitment process, please email recruitment@shakespearesglobe.com.
We are committed to improving diversity and inclusion across our organisation. Women, the Global Majority, LGBTQA+, those with a disability, and neurodiverse conditions are particularly encouraged to apply. We also welcome and encourage applications from candidates who are under‑represented in the creative industries.
Please make sure that you state in your application that you found this role via Creative Access.
Librarian – Shakespeare Library & Public Engagement employer: Hachette UK
Shakespeare's Globe is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work within one of the world's most celebrated cultural institutions located on the picturesque banks of the River Thames in London. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, the company fosters a collaborative work culture that encourages professional growth and engagement with a wide range of audiences. Employees benefit from being part of a passionate team dedicated to preserving Shakespeare's legacy while actively promoting access to the arts for all.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Librarian – Shakespeare Library & Public Engagement
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the library and information science field, especially those connected to Shakespeare’s Globe. Attend events, join relevant online groups, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for Shakespeare! When you get the chance to chat with someone from the Globe, share your thoughts on their collections or recent productions. This will help you stand out as someone who genuinely cares about the role and the institution.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your cataloguing knowledge and current trends in librarianship. Be ready to discuss how you can create inclusive pathways for diverse audiences to engage with the library’s resources.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Shakespeare’s Globe.
We think you need these skills to ace Librarian – Shakespeare Library & Public Engagement
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing, take a good look at the job description. We want to see how your skills and experiences match what we're looking for, so make sure you highlight those in your application!
Show Your Passion for Shakespeare:This role is all about engaging with Shakespeare's legacy, so let your enthusiasm shine through! Share any relevant experiences or projects that show your love for literature and public engagement.
Be Clear and Concise:When filling out the application form, keep your answers clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your qualifications and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details correctly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Shakespeare’s Globe!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hachette UK
✨Know Your Shakespeare
Brush up on your knowledge of Shakespeare's works and their historical context. Being able to discuss how these texts relate to modern audiences will show your passion for the role and your understanding of the library's mission.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Cataloguing Standards
Make sure you understand cataloguing standards like MARC21 and RDA. Be prepared to discuss your experience with these systems and how you can apply them to enhance access to the collections at Shakespeare’s Globe.
✨Showcase Your Outreach Ideas
Think about ways to engage diverse audiences with the library's resources. Bring some creative ideas to the table during your interview, demonstrating your proactive approach to public engagement and inclusivity.
✨Highlight Teamwork Skills
This role involves working closely with a team, so be ready to share examples of successful collaborations from your past experiences. Emphasise your ability to communicate effectively and contribute positively to a team environment.
