At a Glance
- Tasks: Support access to Shakespeare's collections through cataloguing and public engagement.
- Company: Join the iconic Shakespeare's Globe, a cultural hub on the River Thames.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive workplace, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are key; all backgrounds encouraged to apply.
- Why this job: Engage with Shakespeare's legacy and inspire diverse audiences in a vibrant environment.
- 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.
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: Job Search Place Limited
Shakespeare's Globe offers a unique opportunity to work in a vibrant cultural hub on the banks of the River Thames, where you can engage with one of the world's most significant Shakespeare collections. As a Librarian, you will be part of a dedicated team that values diversity and inclusion, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and community engagement. The supportive work culture fosters collaboration and creativity, making it an excellent employer for those passionate about literature and public access to the arts.
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 industry, attend events, and connect with fellow librarians. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for Shakespeare! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your enthusiasm for the collections and how you envision engaging diverse audiences. Let them see your excitement!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the Globe's history and current projects. Tailor your answers to show how your skills align with their mission of making Shakespeare accessible to everyone. Knowledge is power!
✨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 🫡
Show Your Passion for Shakespeare:When writing your application, let your love for Shakespeare shine through! Share any experiences or projects that highlight your connection to his work and how it inspires you. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role and the collections you'll be working with.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this specific role. Highlight relevant experience in library management, cataloguing, and public engagement. We’re looking for how your skills align with our mission at Shakespeare's Globe, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant to the role. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the position.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your materials directly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Shakespeare's Globe. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Shakespeare
Brush up on your knowledge of Shakespeare's works and their historical context. Being able to discuss how the library's collections support public engagement with Shakespeare will show your passion for the role and the subject matter.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Cataloguing Standards
Make sure you understand cataloguing standards like MARC21 and RDA. Be prepared to discuss your experience with these standards and any cataloguing software you've used, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Think of examples where you've effectively communicated with diverse audiences. Whether it's through outreach or collaboration, demonstrating your ability to engage with various groups will be key in this role.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Experience
This position involves working closely with a team. Prepare to share specific instances where you've successfully collaborated with others, especially in a library or archive setting, to illustrate your teamworking skills.
