At a Glance
- Tasks: Encourage kids to read and help deliver the Summer Reading Challenge at local libraries.
- Company: Bexley Library Service, a community-focused organisation.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, improve your skills, and receive a reference for future opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible hours, great team environment, and a chance to boost your CV.
- Why this job: Make a difference in children's lives by promoting reading and literacy.
- Qualifications: Friendly, enthusiastic, and confident in engaging with children and young people.
About the Role
To assist in the delivery of Bexley Library Service's Summer Reading Challenge and related activities in libraries. To act as an ambassador for the Challenge and proactively encourage children and young people to sign up to the Challenge and read six books over the summer. Volunteers will be asked for a minimum commitment of 15 hours.
Department: Libraries and Archives
Supervised by: Libraries Manager
Location / Time: All Bexley libraries (Monday to Saturday) for the duration of the Summer Reading Challenge (July to mid-September).
Tasks:
- Act as an ambassador for the Library Service and be proactive about talking to children and young people inside the library, and actively encouraging them to join and complete the Summer Reading Challenge.
- Talk to children and young people with interest and enthusiasm about the books they have read.
- Give out incentives, such as medals and certificates as appropriate.
- Complete accurate records as required.
- Assist with associated promotional events in libraries during the summer.
Skills and Experience:
- A good general education.
- Warm, polite and friendly manner.
- Confidence to approach children and young people in the library to encourage them to join the Summer Reading Challenge.
- Enthusiastic about encouraging children to explore reading for pleasure.
- Reliable and dependable.
- Good communication skills with children and young people and their parents/carers.
- Commitment to equal opportunities and diversity.
- Organised and able to keep accurate records.
Offer to Volunteer:
- Flexible volunteering opportunity - available over 6 days, including evenings.
- Experience volunteering in a library setting and as part of a team.
- Gain confidence in dealing with members of the public, especially children and young people.
- Improve your customer care skills.
- Receive a reference after an agreed period of volunteering.
- Experience to show on your CV.
Training:
Volunteers will receive an induction to the library and appropriate training will be given. Volunteers in this role will need to be proactive, enthusiastic and able to carry out tasks independently but with guidance from staff.
Volunteer Summer Reading Challenge Role in London employer: Job Search Place Limited
Bexley Library Service is an excellent employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the community through the Summer Reading Challenge. With a warm and inclusive work culture, volunteers will gain valuable experience in customer care and communication while encouraging children to explore the joy of reading. The flexible volunteering hours across all Bexley libraries provide a unique opportunity to engage with diverse groups and develop skills that enhance personal and professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Summer Reading Challenge Role in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the libraries in Bexley! Familiarise yourself with the layout and the staff. This way, when you’re chatting to kids about the Summer Reading Challenge, you can confidently guide them to the books they might love.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your pitch! Think about how you’ll encourage children to join the Challenge. Use enthusiasm and personal stories about your favourite books to make it relatable and exciting for them.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t wait for kids to come to you; approach them with a smile and start a conversation. The more approachable you are, the more likely they’ll be to sign up for the Challenge.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep track of your interactions! Make sure you’re recording who’s signed up and their progress. This not only helps with organisation but also shows your commitment to the role and the kids’ reading journeys.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Summer Reading Challenge Role in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm:When you're writing your application, let your passion for reading and working with children shine through. We want to see how excited you are about the Summer Reading Challenge and how you can inspire others to join in!
Be Personal and Relatable:Use a friendly tone and share any personal experiences you have with reading or volunteering. We love hearing stories that connect you to the role, so don’t be shy about sharing what makes you a great fit!
Highlight Your Skills:Make sure to mention any relevant skills or experiences that align with the role, like communication skills or previous volunteer work. We’re looking for reliable and enthusiastic individuals, so show us why you’re dependable!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and get you started on this exciting journey with the Bexley Library Service.
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Make sure you understand the Summer Reading Challenge and what it entails. Familiarise yourself with the goals of the programme and think about how you can contribute to encouraging children to read. This will show your enthusiasm and commitment during the interview.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
When discussing your passion for reading and working with children, let your excitement shine through! Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your love for books and how you've encouraged others to read. This will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Think about potential scenarios you might face while volunteering, such as how to engage a shy child or handle a group of excited kids. Practising your responses to these situations will help you demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to connect with young people.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the types of activities planned for the Summer Reading Challenge or how success is measured. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand what’s expected of you.
