At a Glance
- Tasks: Support library services, assist researchers, and contribute to digital resources.
- Company: IWM London, dedicated to preserving impactful stories of conflict.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on experience, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for growth and learning.
- Why this job: Gain valuable skills in libraries while making a difference in people's access to knowledge.
- Qualifications: Level 1 Maths and English, customer service experience, and a passion for libraries.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 27000 € per year.
Location: IWM London
Salary: £25,000–£27,000 per annum
Working Hours: 36 hours per week
Contract Type: Fixed-term (19 months – including apprenticeship and end-point assessment)
What It’s Like To Work Here
We’re driven by a shared purpose: preserving and sharing powerful stories of conflict and their impact on people’s lives. Our collections are unique, wide-ranging, and used by researchers from around the world. You’ll be joining a collaborative and supportive team who are passionate about access to knowledge and delivering excellent public services. It’s an environment where curiosity, learning, and teamwork are valued every day.
Why This Role Matters
This role plays an important part in helping people access and understand IWM’s collections. You’ll support researchers, staff, and the public to explore materials that inform academic study, creative work, and personal projects. As an apprentice, you’ll build the skills and experience needed for a career in libraries, archives, or the cultural sector—while contributing to a high-quality research and information service that supports the museum’s wider mission.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Support the delivery of library and research services to a wide range of users, including researchers, students, and staff
- Provide helpful, front‑line support in the Research Room and enquiry services (in person and online)
- Contribute to the development of digital library services and online resources
- Assist with administrative tasks such as record keeping, rotas, and departmental coordination
- Help manage enquiries via email, phone, and internal systems, escalating where needed
- Support the library’s online presence, including website updates and social media content
- Work with colleagues across departments and assist with events and activities
What We’re Looking For
We’d love to hear from you if you have:
- Maths and English at Level 1 (or equivalent)
- Experience working or volunteering in a busy, customer‑facing or public environment
- A genuine interest in libraries, museums, or working with collections
- Strong communication and basic numeracy skills
- Confidence using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel)
- A positive, team‑focused mindset with a willingness to learn
Nice To Have
- Experience using social media in a work or project setting
How You’ll Work
You’ll work closely with a team of librarians, archivists, and research specialists, as well as colleagues across the museum. The role involves regular interaction with researchers and members of the public, both in person and remotely. Collaboration is central to how we work—you’ll be supported to learn, develop, and gradually take on more responsibility as your confidence grows.
What Success Looks Like (First 6–12 Months)
- Build strong working relationships across the Collections Access and Research team
- Confidently support users in the Research Room and through enquiry services
- Develop a good working knowledge of the museum’s collections and services
- Contribute to digital resources and online service improvements
- Successfully progress through the Level 3 Library apprenticeship programme
- Demonstrate excellent customer service and professional standards
Apprentice Research Support Librarian in London employer: IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUMS
At IWM London, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and supportive work culture. As an Apprentice Research Support Librarian, you'll not only gain invaluable skills in a unique environment dedicated to preserving powerful stories of conflict but also enjoy opportunities for personal and professional growth while contributing to meaningful public services. Our commitment to teamwork, curiosity, and learning ensures that every day is rewarding and impactful.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Research Support Librarian in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn and ask about their experiences. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching IWM's collections and recent projects. Show us your passion for libraries and how you can contribute to our mission—this will definitely impress!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions with a friend or in front of a mirror. Confidence is key, so make sure you can articulate your interest in the role and your relevant skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can keep you fresh in our minds and shows your enthusiasm for the position. Plus, it’s just good manners!
We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice Research Support Librarian in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Apprentice Research Support Librarian. We want to see your genuine interest in libraries and museums shine through!
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves a lot of interaction with researchers and the public, it’s crucial to demonstrate your strong communication skills. Use clear and concise language in your application to show us you can engage effectively.
Highlight Relevant Experience:If you've worked or volunteered in customer-facing roles, make sure to mention that! We love seeing how your past experiences can contribute to our collaborative and supportive team environment.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at IWM London.
How to prepare for a job interview at IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUMS
✨Know the Collections
Before your interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with the IWM's collections and their significance. Understanding the stories behind the materials will not only impress your interviewers but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Since this role involves front-line support, be ready to share examples of your experience in customer-facing environments. Think of specific situations where you provided excellent service or resolved issues effectively—this will highlight your suitability for the position.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Collaboration is key in this role, so be prepared to discuss how you've worked successfully in teams before. Share anecdotes that illustrate your ability to communicate well and support your colleagues, as this aligns perfectly with the museum's values.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Digital Skills
With a focus on digital library services, it’s important to showcase your confidence in using Microsoft Office and any experience with social media. Prepare to talk about how you've used these tools in past roles or projects, as this will demonstrate your readiness to contribute to the library's online presence.
