At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver books and provide companionship to those unable to visit the library.
- Company: Burnley Library is dedicated to serving the community and promoting literacy.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, receive training, and have travel expenses reimbursed.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while sharing your love for reading.
- Qualifications: Must be a UK resident for 3 years, have driving access, and good communication skills.
- Other info: This role requires a DBS check and offers an induction programme.
The Home Library Service is provided to library customers who are unable to visit their local library because of poor health (including physical and mental health), disability, caring responsibilities or mobility problems. Being a Home Library Service volunteer is much more than just collecting and delivering books, it is around spending a little time with each person, a friendly face and a chat can make a real difference helping them to feel cared for and valued by their community.
Volunteers must be able to drive and have access to a vehicle. There are some mandatory eLearning videos to watch and answer a few questions about for this role.
We require volunteers to help the Library deliver books to Home Library Service customers on a Thursday.
Please speak to a member of staff before applying to ensure the role is suitable.
What the role offers you:
• Volunteering would give you the opportunity to share your love of reading and meeting people in the local community
• An induction programme and designated member of staff as contact for assistance and feedback
• Training and support
• An opportunity you can include on CV
• Reimbursement of travel expenses
This volunteering role is subject to a DBS check. To qualify you must have been a resident in the UK for the past 3 years.
- Applicants must be willing to go through an induction process with relevant background checks and an enhanced DBS check (This will be done free of charge)
- Once you have applied online one of our Volunteer Officers will be in contact to arrange your DBS
• Regularly collecting pre-packed books from the library and delivering to home library service customers.
• Chatting to vulnerable people and helping to combat loneliness
• Reporting any concerns to library staff or Lancashire Volunteer Partnership as appropriate
• To regularly support the individual by socialising – The role is unique to every individual’s needs and circumstances
• To provide regular feedback on the progress of the individual or report any concerns.
• To log your volunteering hours monthly and submit expenses (where applicable) on-line.
• To complete minimum level training e.g. safeguarding and commit to further training relevant to the role.
Please speak to a member of library staff about this opportunity for more information before applying.
Required Qualities:
• Respect for equality and diversity
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to use own initiative
• Be able to deal with difficult situations in a professional manner
• Genuine interest in books and reading
• Ability to use basic ICT systems
Training:
Training will be provided in the form of peer support, distance learning or trainer led.
Volunteers may be asked to regularly refresh training where required.
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Home Library Service - Burnley Library employer: Lancashire Volunteer Partnership
Contact Detail:
Lancashire Volunteer Partnership Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Home Library Service - Burnley Library
✨Tip Number 1
Before applying, take the time to visit Burnley Library and chat with current volunteers or staff. This will give you a better understanding of the role and help you express your genuine interest in your application.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the Home Library Service and its impact on the community. Being able to discuss how you can contribute to combating loneliness and supporting vulnerable individuals will make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Make sure you have a reliable vehicle and are comfortable driving, as this is essential for the role. Highlighting your driving experience and reliability during any conversations with library staff can strengthen your application.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the mandatory eLearning by reviewing relevant topics such as safeguarding and communication skills. Showing that you are proactive about training will demonstrate your commitment to the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Home Library Service - Burnley Library
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take the time to fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Home Library Service role. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences and skills.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, emphasise your communication and interpersonal skills, as well as your ability to work independently. Mention any previous volunteering experience or roles that demonstrate your respect for equality and diversity.
Personal Touch: Since this role involves interacting with vulnerable individuals, consider including a personal statement about why you are passionate about reading and helping others. This can make your application stand out.
Check Requirements: Ensure you meet all the necessary requirements, such as having access to a vehicle and being willing to undergo a DBS check. Mention these in your application to show you are fully prepared for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancashire Volunteer Partnership
✨Show Your Passion for Reading
Make sure to express your genuine love for books and reading during the interview. Share personal anecdotes about how reading has impacted your life or how you enjoy discussing books with others. This will demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Emphasise Your Interpersonal Skills
Since this role involves interacting with vulnerable individuals, highlight your communication and interpersonal skills. Provide examples of past experiences where you've successfully engaged with people, especially in challenging situations.
✨Demonstrate Your Initiative
Be prepared to discuss instances where you've taken the initiative in previous roles or volunteer work. This could include how you’ve adapted to meet someone's needs or how you’ve contributed positively to a team environment.
✨Understand the Importance of Confidentiality
Familiarise yourself with the importance of confidentiality and safeguarding, especially when working with vulnerable individuals. Be ready to discuss how you would handle sensitive information and ensure the well-being of those you serve.