Branch Library Manager Richhill & Tandragee

Job Purpose and Information

Under the direction of the Line Manager to supervise 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.

Posts: Post 1: Richhill 20 hrs per week, Post 2: Tandragee 25 hrs per week. These are temporary posts, subject to review and pending the organisational and structure review; dependent on business need. The posts are for a period of six months and may be extended, made permanent, or terminated for any valid reason.

Job Description

Responsible to: Line Manager

Responsible for: up to 15 branch library staff (supervision may be shared).

Main duties and responsibilities

• Core services to clients:

• Operate the circulation system.
• Provide client care.
• Assist clients to make best use of the library service.
• Offer an efficient and effective request service.
• Respond to reference and information enquiries.
• Advise on library resources within or without the service.
• Develop services for all client groups (children, adults, elderly, people with disabilities, etc.) through activities promoting library materials/services, reading and literacy.
• Ensure clients have access to a suitable range of resources that meets their needs in line with the stock policy; maintain resources in good condition and arrange them according to policy.
• Supervise day‑to‑day delivery and routine procedures of client‑focused library services in learning, information, leisure and culture.
• Maintain required statistics and file systems.
• Promote and market the library as the hub of learning, information, leisure and culture in the local community.
• Respond to public comments and complaints following the library services complaint procedure.

Staff management

• Manage, supervise and appraise senior library assistants, library assistants and ancillary staff.
• Operate the timetable and duty rota; ensure time‑sheets are completed accurately and on time.
• Lead and motivate staff to encourage maximum performance and provide opportunities for communication.
• Ensure high standards of staff performance (attendance, timekeeping, morale, welfare).
• Assist in identifying training needs; provide on‑site refresher and induction training.
• Maintain awareness of library matters through relevant literature and attend courses and conferences.

Premises and Administration

• Maintain library premises, files and records; refer unresolved problems to the appropriate officer.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety requirements.
• Adhere to financial procedures and record keeping.
• Supervise clerical and electronic functions at the service point.
• Ensure adequate stationery and cleaning supplies.
• Act as duty officer and maintain duty officer rota; brief staff on emergencies.
• Maintain booking system for community group facilities.
• Maintain equipment inventory and signage; replace as required.
• Ensure the library environment is safe, comfortable and welcoming.
• Perform other duties as required by the Director or designated officer.

This job description is intended to indicate the broad range of responsibilities and requirements of the post. It is neither exhaustive nor prescriptive. Libraries NI reserves the right to amend it in consultation with the post holder.

Person Specification / Terms and Conditions

Essential Qualifications: Minimum 2 GCE A‑levels or equivalent higher qualification AND at least 2 years’ experience working with the public in a customer‑focused environment within the last five years, OR 3 years’ experience within the last six years.

Experience:

• Contributing to the promotion and delivery of front‑line customer services to a diverse range of people.
• Using current ICT systems/applications in a work context.
• Working in partnership or collaboration with internal and/or external customers.
• Working effectively within a team to meet organisational goals/objectives.
• Ability to work a mix of mornings, afternoons, evenings and weekends, both at base and other service points as required.
• No criminal record which would prevent working with children and/or adults at risk.

Desirable Experience managing staff.

Experience working in a public, academic or specialist library.

Equal Opportunities Employer

LIBRARIES NI IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER

Shortlisting will be based on essential criteria; desirable criteria may be used for enhancement.

Terms and Conditions

This is a temporary appointment on NJC terms and conditions of service; membership of the Northern Ireland Local Government Pension Scheme is automatic for eligible persons.

Annual leave entitlement: 23 days pro‑rata for part‑time posts, increasing to 30 days after five years’ service; 12 statutory holidays.

Probationary period of six months.

An unpaid meal break of 30 minutes for employees contracted to work 4 hours or more per day.

Travel expenses at rates approved by Libraries NI will be paid in respect of approved journeys.

The post may be located at an agreed location or at any alternative premises as reasonably required; location may change following consultation with the post holder.

Excess fares cease on appointment.