At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to prepare and sell rare books while providing exceptional customer service.
- Company: Jonkers Rare Books, a leading dealer in rare books and manuscripts.
- Benefits: 28 days annual leave, professional development opportunities, and company pension contributions.
- Other info: Flexible hours, including occasional Saturdays, and potential for company share ownership.
- Why this job: Dive into the fascinating world of rare books and develop your expertise with us.
- Qualifications: Strong English skills, attention to detail, and a passion for literature.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 35000 £ per year.
Jonkers Rare Books is a leading international dealer in rare books, manuscripts and original artwork. We have been established for nearly 30 years during which time we have acquired a reputation for helping to build exceptional libraries for private individuals and institutions. Our specialisms include English Literature, Children’s Books & Illustration, Travel & Exploration, and Literary Manuscripts.
We are looking to recruit someone to join our small team as a bookseller. Expertise is the cornerstone of our business, and we will train the successful candidate in all aspects of antiquarian bookselling. The role will also include client-facing elements of sales, both face-to-face in our shop and at book fairs, as well as over the phone or through email.
To be successful at this role you will need to have:
- Exceptional spoken and written English
- Meticulous attention to detail
- Good incisive research skills
- A self-motivated approach to problem solving
- Commercial awareness
Responsibilities:
- Preparation of antiquarian and rare books for sale, including research, cataloguing and collation.
- Face to face sales and assisting customers, providing a high level of service and knowledge.
- Shop displays, housekeeping and other duties linked to a specialist, boutique shop, as required.
- Responding to phone and email enquiries from customers.
- Overseeing shipment of books, including packaging and liaising with couriers.
- Updating our website and social media feeds.
- Preparing e-commerce mailings and printed marketing material.
- Attending book fairs in the UK, with scope for overseas book fairs subject to development.
Essential Attributes and Experience:
- Demonstrable interest in one or more of our areas of expertise, though previous work with rare books is not essential.
- The ability to learn quickly and retain information.
- The flexibility to work up to two Saturdays a month.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively.
- Competence in using computers, databases and social media.
- The right to work in the UK.
- Knowledge of antiquarian books and the rare book trade.
- Competence using Adobe Photoshop and InDesign to create digital and print media.
- To hold a driving licence and have a vehicle.
28 days annual leave (including Christmas and Bank Holidays)
Opportunity for professional development by attending relevant conferences and seminars.
Company Pension Contribution
Possibility of company share ownership, subject to development and suitability.
To apply: Please email a CV and covering letter to info@jonkers.co.uk. Please note your application must include a covering letter to be considered.
Closing date: 31 May 2026, though applications will be reviewed and interviews arranged on an ongoing basis.
Rare Bookseller and Cataloguer employer: Jonkers Rare Books
At Jonkers Rare Books, we pride ourselves on being a leading international dealer in rare books, offering a unique opportunity for passionate individuals to join our small, dedicated team. Our supportive work culture fosters professional growth through training in antiquarian bookselling, while our commitment to exceptional customer service ensures a rewarding experience for both employees and clients alike. With benefits such as 28 days of annual leave, company pension contributions, and the potential for share ownership, we provide a fulfilling environment for those looking to make their mark in the world of rare books.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Rare Bookseller and Cataloguer
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We think you need these skills to ace Rare Bookseller and Cataloguer
Some tips for your application 🫡
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Expect some technical questions about editing styles, proofing techniques, and style guides. They might ask you to solve a practical problem or provide feedback on a piece—know the tools and software commonly used in the industry, and be prepared to discuss them!
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