At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to enhance library stock and create engaging programmes for the community.
- Company: Join Bexley's vibrant Library Service, making a real impact in a diverse borough.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, excellent pension, generous leave, and coaching opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a dynamic environment await you in Bexley.
- Why this job: Shape the future of libraries and inspire a love for reading in your community.
- Qualifications: Experienced library professional with staff management skills and a passion for public service.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
London Borough of Bexley's Library Service is seeking an experienced library professional with a passion for reading and literacy to join us in the senior role of Stock, Reader Development and Activities Manager. The role will lead a team of Librarians to ensure Bexley's libraries have excellent stock and engaging programmes and activities that encourage residents to visit and use our libraries. This is a senior role in the libraries team and an opportunity to help us build on our success in increasing issues and visits to libraries in recent years.
With two new libraries and investment planned in others, Bexley is an exciting place to work where you can use your skills to make a real impact. The successful candidate will be based at Central Library, Bexleyheath and will be expected to visit libraries across Bexley in the course of their work. There is flexibility to work at home some of the time, but the successful candidate will be able to work on site in Bexley most of the time, including occasional evenings and weekends when special events or activities may require it.
Candidates will be experienced and qualified library professionals with experience of staff management and a passion for delivering outstanding public library services. For the full list of essential and desirable criteria for this role then please refer to the Person Specification within the Job Description attached.
Bexley is a vibrant and diverse outer London Borough nestled in the Thames Gateway between London and Kent which means it combines the perfect blend of city vibe and the tranquillity of Kent. It's got award-winning parks, open spaces, and heritage sites. The borough has excellent transport connections, including the Elizabeth Line and proximity to the M25. Bexley offers fantastic amenities such as libraries, leisure centres, and shopping areas. Our borough is also home to numerous primary and secondary schools, as well as further education institutions.
We will offer you in return a package that includes a competitive salary, coaching and mentoring programmes, an excellent pension scheme and generous annual leave plus bank holidays.
As a disability confident employer Bexley welcomes applications from people with all disabilities, including hidden disabilities and mental health conditions. We will interview any disabled applicant who meets the minimum criteria. If you require reasonable adjustments to be made to any part of the recruitment process due to your disability, please contact recruitment@bexley.gov.uk.
Stock, Reader Development and Activities Manager employer: London Borough of Bexley
The London Borough of Bexley offers a dynamic and supportive work environment for library professionals, where your passion for reading and literacy can truly flourish. With a commitment to employee development through coaching and mentoring programmes, alongside a competitive salary and generous benefits, Bexley is an ideal place to make a meaningful impact in the community. The vibrant location, rich in parks and cultural heritage, combined with excellent transport links, ensures that you will enjoy both professional fulfilment and a high quality of life.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Stock, Reader Development and Activities Manager
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like London Borough of Bexley, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like London Borough of Bexley and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Stock, Reader Development and Activities Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for London Borough of Bexley and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at London Borough of Bexley
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with London Borough of Bexley, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for London Borough of Bexley.
