At a Glance
- Tasks: Help customers find books, support events, and keep the library welcoming.
- Company: Join Lambeth Council, a vibrant community-focused organisation in South London.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension scheme, discounts, and learning opportunities.
- Other info: Part-time role with potential for career growth in libraries.
- Why this job: Make a difference in your community while enjoying a love for books.
- Qualifications: Passion for reading, IT skills, and a friendly attitude.
The predicted salary is between 31980 - 33384 £ per year.
Scale 4: Starting salary £31,980 pro rata, pa rising in annual increment to £33,384 per annum incl LW. Permanent – Part Time Contract for 7 hours a week.
About Us
Located in the heart of South London, Lambeth Borough is a vibrant community of over 317,600 residents. Stretching from the dynamic neighbourhood of Streatham in the South to the iconic landmarks of Waterloo in the North, we are proud to be the 9th largest borough in London. Our diversity is our strength, with more than 130 languages spoken. Lambeth is home to the Windrush generation, London's largest LGBTQ+ community, and a thriving Portuguese‑speaking community. It is an exciting time to join Lambeth Council as we set bold ambitions for the future of our communities through the Lambeth 2030 Plan ‘Our Future, Our Lambeth’. With exceptional schools, lush green spaces including Brockwell Park, cultural gems like the Black Cultural Archives, and world‑renowned institutions such as St Thomas’s Hospital, Lambeth offers an enriching and dynamic environment.
About the Team
Lambeth Libraries comprise ten libraries spread across the borough. The libraries are well‑used, supporting people of all ages. Our staff are passionate about encouraging a love of reading, helping people get online and learn new skills. We run many events and activities, from weekly Wriggle and Rhyme groups for babies and small children to festivals with high‑profile authors. Staff are encouraged to be involved in the wider library network and develop their knowledge of books, customer skills and the digital world, supporting further career progression in libraries or a wider career path.
About the Role
Do you enjoy helping people? Do you love books and reading? Are you confident using IT? As a Weekend Library Assistant you will support customers of all ages in our busy libraries. Your duties will include:
- Helping customers find books and use IT.
- Supporting events and promotions.
- Stock‑work and keeping the library tidy and welcoming.
- Cooperating with colleagues to maintain a safe and inclusive environment.
You must be able to cope with the physical demands of the job, including lifting, moving furniture, and moving around the library to assist customers in accessing materials and services. This is a frontline role working Saturdays between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm at Brixton, Carnegie, Minet, Durning and Upper Norwood libraries.
How to Apply
To be considered for interview, submit a CV and supporting statement that clearly demonstrates how you meet the short‑listing criteria on the personal specification marked “A”. Remove personal details from your CV and statement, as our application process is anonymised.
Staff Benefits
- Participation in our five staff networks: Black, Asian and Multi‑Ethnic, LGBTQ+, Disability, Young Professionals and Women’s.
- Generous annual leave entitlement starting from 27 days, increasing to up to 35 days depending on length of service.
- Membership in the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- Discounts at local restaurants and our Active Lambeth Gyms.
- Learning and Development opportunities, including Apprenticeships.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
- Secure bike storage facilities at our Town Hall and Civic Centre.
- Trade Union Membership.
You will be required to undertake a Cifas check. Further information about Cifas can be provided on request.
Contact Information
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Susanna Barnes at.
Equal Opportunities
At Lambeth, we are dedicated to providing quality services and equal opportunities for all. We are committed to safer recruitment and are proud to be a Stonewall diversity champion, a Living Wage Employer, and to guarantee interviews for all disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria of the role. We actively support applications from Lambeth Care Leavers.
Weekend Library Assistant in London employer: Lambeth Council
Lambeth Council is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that celebrates diversity and community engagement in the heart of South London. As a Weekend Library Assistant, you will enjoy generous benefits including 27 days of annual leave, opportunities for professional development, and participation in various staff networks that promote inclusivity. With a commitment to employee growth and a supportive environment, Lambeth Libraries provide a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the community while advancing your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Weekend Library Assistant in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the libraries in Lambeth! Visit them, chat with staff, and understand their vibe. This will help you connect better during interviews and show your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your customer service skills. Think of examples where you've helped someone or solved a problem. Libraries are all about helping people, so be ready to share your experiences!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for books and reading! Be prepared to discuss your favourite authors or genres. This can really set you apart and demonstrate that you’re a great fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy, which is a big plus for this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Weekend Library Assistant in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Weekend Library Assistant role. Highlight any relevant experience you have with customer service, IT skills, or working in a library setting. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our vibrant community!
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement:Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Clearly demonstrate how you meet the short-listing criteria mentioned in the job description. Use specific examples from your past experiences that show your passion for helping people and love for books.
Keep It Anonymised:Remember to remove personal details from your CV and supporting statement. This is super important as our application process is anonymised. We want to focus on your skills and experiences without any bias!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lambeth Council
✨Know Your Libraries
Familiarise yourself with the libraries in Lambeth and their unique offerings. Understanding the community's needs and the types of events they host will show your genuine interest in the role and help you connect with the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully assisted customers or resolved issues. Highlighting your ability to engage with people of all ages will demonstrate that you're a great fit for this frontline role.
✨Demonstrate IT Confidence
Since the role involves helping customers with IT, be ready to discuss your own tech skills. Mention any relevant experience you have with library systems or digital resources, as this will reassure them of your capability to assist patrons effectively.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Inclusivity
Talk about your experiences working in teams and how you contribute to creating an inclusive environment. Given the diverse community in Lambeth, showing that you value collaboration and inclusivity will resonate well with the interviewers.
