At a Glance
- Tasks: Support MPs with accurate information and develop expert knowledge in research resources.
- Company: Join the House of Commons, a key part of UK Parliament.
- Benefits: 30-35 days annual leave, Civil Service pension, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on parliamentary decision-making and engage with diverse stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Strong enquiry skills and ability to communicate complex information clearly.
Are you a curious and service-focused professional looking to make a real impact at the heart of UK Parliament? The House of Commons is seeking a Research Librarian to join the Research and Information team, where you'll play a vital role in supporting MPs and their staff by ensuring they have access to accurate, reliable and timely information.
Working within the Research Information Service (RIS), you will partner closely with research teams across the House of Commons Library and the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST), helping them to navigate a wide range of information resources and tools.
You will develop expert knowledge in specialist information sources, provide tailored training and 1:1 support, and contribute to delivering high-quality enquiry and research services. Your work will directly support the production of briefings, publications and analysis that inform parliamentary debate and decision-making.
This is a varied and outward-facing role where you'll build strong relationships with stakeholders, advocate for user needs, and stay at the forefront of developments in the information and library sector. You'll also contribute to outreach, training and engagement activities, helping to promote the work of the Library and ensure that information services continue to evolve to meet the needs of a modern, dynamic Parliament. This role is offered on a hybrid working basis, with an expectation of you spending 40% of your time in the office.
In addition to your salary, we offer an attractive range of benefits including but not limited to:
- Generous annual leave starting at 30 days and increasing to 35 after one full working year.
- Enrolment in the excellent Civil Service pension scheme with an average employer contribution of 27%.
- Flexible working options that help you find a balance including enhanced maternity, paternity, shared parental and adoption leave, caring leave and alternative working patterns.
What we're looking for:
- You meet the key information needs of your customers by showing an aptitude for enquiry work using a range of information resources and tools, including the ability to find, evaluate and explain information verbally and in writing.
- You work with stakeholders at all levels to provide an effective liaison service, understanding the needs of your users and manage their expectations, whilst upholding the values of equality, diversity and inclusion.
- You deliver services through your excellent organisational and planning skills with the ability to translate agreed aims into practical objectives.
- You can devise innovative ways of delivering better services and see ideas through to delivery using your own initiative to implement change within a team or service.
- You liaise with others using your excellent communication and interpersonal skills, demonstrating a proven ability to communicate complex issues to non-specialists and different audiences using a variety of methods.
- You have the ability to provide training and support to colleagues, with a consideration for the needs of a diverse range of users.
If you would like to apply for this role, please submit an anonymised CV and provide statements on how you meet the criteria outlined in the job description. More information on the role and the full criteria can be found in the Job Description. If you are shortlisted for interview, the interview questions will be shared with you in advance. As part of the interview stage, we will ask you to complete a short task followed by a brief presentation on your findings and approach.
As part of the process, we will be running virtual information sessions on MS Teams for you to find out more about this role.
Research Librarian employer: HOUSE OF COMMONS-3
The House of Commons offers a unique opportunity for Research Librarians to contribute meaningfully to the UK Parliament, providing vital support to MPs and their staff. With a strong commitment to employee well-being, the organisation boasts generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and flexible working options that promote a healthy work-life balance. The collaborative and inclusive work culture fosters professional growth through training and outreach activities, making it an excellent employer for those passionate about information services in a dynamic parliamentary environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Librarian
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the House of Commons on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for your application process. Building connections can give you insider knowledge that sets you apart.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising your presentation skills. Since you'll need to present your findings, get comfortable explaining complex information in simple terms. Grab a friend or family member and do a mock presentation to boost your confidence!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your research skills! During the interview, be ready to discuss how you would approach finding and evaluating information. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully navigated information resources to meet user needs.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to check out our website for additional resources! We’ve got loads of helpful guides on CV writing and interview prep that can give you an edge. Plus, applying through our site makes it easier for us to keep track of your application!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Librarian
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Research Librarian role. Highlight your enquiry work and any relevant training or support you've provided to others.
Address the Criteria:When writing your criteria responses, be specific! Use examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how you meet each of the four criteria outlined in the job description.
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for the role shine through in your application. Talk about why you're excited about supporting MPs and contributing to parliamentary debate and decision-making.
Check Your Application:Before hitting that apply button, give your application a thorough read-through. Make sure there are no typos or errors, and that everything flows nicely. We want to see your best self!
How to prepare for a job interview at HOUSE OF COMMONS-3
✨Know Your Resources
Familiarise yourself with the key information resources and tools relevant to the role of a Research Librarian. Be prepared to discuss how you would evaluate and explain complex information to MPs and their staff, showcasing your ability to navigate various sources.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Practice explaining complex issues in simple terms. During the interview, demonstrate your excellent communication and interpersonal skills by engaging with the interviewers and showing how you can tailor your message to different audiences.
✨Prepare for the Presentation
Since you'll be asked to complete a short task followed by a presentation, take time to prepare thoroughly. Focus on how you approach research and problem-solving, and be ready to share your findings clearly and confidently.
✨Emphasise Your Stakeholder Engagement
Think about examples from your past experiences where you've successfully liaised with stakeholders. Highlight how you understand user needs and manage expectations, as this is crucial for the role. Be ready to discuss how you advocate for equality, diversity, and inclusion in your work.
