At a Glance
- Tasks: Support access to Shakespeare's collections through cataloguing and engaging with diverse audiences.
- Company: Shakespeare's Globe, a world-renowned cultural attraction and education centre in London.
- 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: Join a passionate team and help people connect with Shakespeare's legacy.
- 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.
- Aware 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 in London employer: Job Search Place Limited
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 organisation fosters a collaborative and supportive work culture, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and engagement with diverse audiences. Employees benefit from being part of a passionate team dedicated to preserving and promoting Shakespeare's legacy, making this role not just a job, but a meaningful contribution to the arts and education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Librarian - Shakespeare Library & Public Engagement in London
✨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 forums, 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 team or during an interview, share your enthusiasm for the Bard and how you can contribute to making the library more accessible and engaging for everyone.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the unexpected! Be ready to discuss your experience with cataloguing standards and software. Brush up on your knowledge of MARC21, AARC2, and other relevant tools so you can impress them with your expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Shakespeare's Globe team and contributing to their mission of cultural participation.
We think you need these skills to ace Librarian - Shakespeare Library & Public Engagement in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Shakespeare:When writing your application, let your love for Shakespeare and his works shine through. Share any personal experiences or projects that connect you to the Bard's legacy, as this will resonate with us at Shakespeare's Globe.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to detail your library experience and any specific skills related to cataloguing standards like MARC21 or RDA. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise!
Be Inclusive and Welcoming:Since we’re all about breaking down barriers to cultural participation, reflect this in your application. Mention any initiatives or ideas you have for making our library more accessible and engaging for diverse audiences.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it reaches us, and you’ll find all the details you need to make your application stand out!
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 assisting researchers, demonstrating your ability to engage with various groups will be key in this role.
✨Highlight Teamwork Experience
Since you'll be part of a collaborative team, share specific instances where you've successfully worked with others. Emphasising your teamwork skills will show that you're a good fit for the Library & Archive team.
