At a Glance
- Tasks: Supervise library services and ensure high standards for the community.
- Company: Join a vibrant library team dedicated to learning and culture.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, community engagement, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a difference in your community while developing leadership skills.
- Qualifications: A levels or equivalent, plus experience in customer service and team management.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Under the direction of the Line Manager to supervise the service points on a day-to-day basis and provide direct services to the public; to assist in the development of the service to meet the learning, information, leisure and cultural needs of the local community.
Responsibilities
- Ensure that all services are provided to consistently high standards and comply with current library policy and procedures.
- Under the direction of the relevant Officers ensure that the service is developed effectively for all client groups in the community.
- Under the direction of the appropriate officer ensure that clients have access to a suitable range of resources which meets their needs in line with the stock policy.
- Supervise the day to day delivery and routine procedures of client-focused library services in the areas of learning, information, leisure and culture.
- Ensure that statistics and file systems are maintained as required.
- Assist the appropriate Officer/s in promoting and marketing the library as the hub of learning, information, leisure and culture in the local community.
- Provide the first response to comments and complaints from the public within the guidelines of the Library Services complaint procedure.
- Manage, supervise and appraise the senior library assistant/s, library assistants and ancillary staff at the service point.
- Ensure the service point functions effectively by operating the timetable and duty rota.
- Ensure time-sheets are completed and returned accurately and on time.
- Lead and motivate staff to encourage maximum performance and provide appropriate opportunities for communication.
- Supervise staff to ensure consistently high standards are maintained.
- Assist relevant officers in identifying the training needs of staff and provide on site refresher and induction training for library assistants on routine aspects of branch library work in line with library service policies.
- Maintain current awareness on library matters through reading the relevant literature and attendance and participation in relevant courses, conferences/etc. in compliance with Libraries NI Staff Development Policy, including Staff Appraisal.
- Ensure the routine maintenance of library premises, maintain files and records as required and refer any problems which cannot be dealt with locally to the appropriate officer.
- Ensure that appropriate action is taken to comply with Health and Safety requirements for the benefit of staff and clients. Notify the appropriate officer of any major issues promptly.
- Ensure that financial procedures and record keeping are adhered to.
- Supervise all clerical/electronic functions at the service point.
- Ensure adequate stationery and cleaning supplies for the service point from administration Department on a regular basis.
- Where appropriate, act as duty officer while on the premises and ensure that a duty officer rota is in place for all hours when the library is open to the public.
- Ensure that a booking system for facilities used by community groups is in place.
- Ensure that all equipment is handled with care, maintained according to Libraries NI policy, properly secured and that the service point inventory is accurate and up-to-date.
- Ensure that library guiding, signage and publicity materials are well maintained and replaced as required.
- Ensure that the library is cleaned to a satisfactory standard and notify appropriate officer of cleaning problems.
- Ensure that the library environment is safe, comfortable and welcoming for clients.
- Any other duties relevant to the grade as required by the Director’s or his/her designated officer from time to time.
Skills and Qualifications
- A minimum of two GCE A levels OR equivalent or higher qualification PLUS a minimum of two years’ experience working with the public in a customer focused environment within the last five years OR a minimum of three years’ experience, working with the public in a customer focused environment within the last six years.
- Experience of contributing to the promotion and delivery of front line customer services to a diverse range of people.
- Experience of using current Information Communication Technology (ICT) systems/applications in a work context.
- Experience of working in partnership OR collaboration with internal and/or external customers.
- Experience of working effectively within a team environment to meet organisational goals/objectives.
- Have no criminal record which would prevent working with children and/or adults at risk.
- Experience of managing staff.
- Experience of working in a public, academic or specialist library.
Further Information
Location: Ardoyne Library, Belfast. Ability to work a mix of mornings, afternoons, evenings and weekends, both at base and in other service points as required to support business need.
Branch Library Manager in Belfast employer: Libraries NI
As a Branch Library Manager at Ardoyne Library in Belfast, you will be part of a vibrant community-focused environment that prioritises learning, culture, and public service. Our commitment to employee development is reflected in our supportive work culture, offering training opportunities and a collaborative atmosphere where your contributions are valued. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying the benefits of a flexible schedule and a welcoming workplace.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Branch Library Manager in Belfast
✨Connect with Local Educational Institutions
Get involved with universities and colleges in your area, especially those that offer adult continuing education programmes. Attend open days or even guest lectures to network with faculty members and find out about potential job openings before they even get advertised.
✨Leverage Professional Education Networks
Join professional networks focused on adult education, such as the Adult Learning Australia or the International Society for Technology in Education. These communities often have job boards or can point you towards opportunities at places like Libraries NI just waiting for the right candidate!
✨Showcase Your Passion for Lifelong Learning
In your interviews, share your own experiences and thoughts on lifelong learning. Highlight any courses or workshops you've taken recently to demonstrate your commitment to personal development and the importance of education. This is a big plus for roles in this field!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don't forget to check out our careers page at Libraries NI. Applying directly through our website not only makes your application stand out but also shows you're genuinely interested in joining us. We love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Branch Library Manager in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Experience in Education:When crafting your CV for the Branch Library Manager role, make sure to emphasise any relevant experience in adult or continuing education. This could be teaching credentials, training sessions you've facilitated, or programmes you’ve developed. The more specific you can be about your contributions and outcomes, the better!
Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills:In the adult continuing education sector, strong communication and interpersonal skills are key. Use your cover letter to share specific examples of how you’ve worked with diverse groups or handled different learning styles. Let us see how you've engaged learners—you’re selling your teaching style here!
Connect Your Passion to Our Mission:At Libraries NI, we value candidates who resonate with our mission to empower lifelong learners. Make sure your cover letter reflects your passion for adult education and your alignment with our goals. A genuine connection can really make your application stand out!
Keep it Professional Yet Personable:While it’s important to maintain professionalism in your application, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. We’re looking for someone who can connect with our learners, so a friendly, approachable tone can help convey that vibe in your written materials. Apply through our website and let us see the real you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Libraries NI
✨Showcase Your Passion for Lifelong Learning
When interviewing for a role in adult continuing education at Libraries NI, it's super important to highlight your passion for lifelong learning. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to education and how you've fostered a love for learning in others – this is something hiring managers love to see!
✨Prepare for Adult Education Methodologies
Be ready to dive into your knowledge of andragogy and educational theories during the interview. Expect questions about how you would adapt your teaching styles for adult learners – think about specific strategies you’ve used in the past and be prepared to discuss how they positively impacted your students.
✨Discuss Your Experience with Diverse Learners
At Libraries NI, you’ll likely encounter a diverse range of adult learners, so don’t shy away from discussing your experience with different demographics. Be prepared to share your successes in engaging learners from varied backgrounds, and how your approach has adapted to meet their unique needs.
✨Demonstrate Your Ability to Collaborate
Given that this is a full-time role, teamwork will be essential. Be ready to talk about your experiences working in collaborative settings, whether it be with fellow educators, administrators, or community partners. Highlight specific projects where your collaborative efforts contributed to successful educational outcomes.