At a Glance
- Tasks: Help customers find books, use IT, and support library events.
- Company: Join Lambeth Libraries in vibrant South London, serving a diverse community.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension scheme, discounts, and learning opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a difference in your community while sharing your love for reading.
- Qualifications: Passion for books, IT skills, and a friendly attitude.
The predicted salary is between 34359 - 35892 £ per year.
REF: 2869
Scale 5: Starting salary £34,359 pro rata, paying per annum rising to £35,892 with annual increment and includes leave week. Permanent – Part Time Contract, 28 hours a week.
About Us
Located in the heart of South London, Lambeth Borough is a vibrant community of over 317,600 residents. The borough spans from the dynamic neighbourhood of Streatham in the South to the iconic landmarks of Waterloo in the North and is home to a diverse population that speaks more than 130 languages. Lambeth offers exceptional schools, green spaces such as Brockwell Park, cultural gems including the Black Cultural Archives, and proximity to world‑renowned institutions such as St Thomas's Hospital.
About the Team
Lambeth Libraries comprise ten libraries across the borough, supporting people of all ages. Staff are passionate about encouraging a love of reading, helping people get online, and learning new skills. Various events and activities run across the network, including Wriggle and Rhyme groups for babies, small‑child festivals, and author visits.
About the Role
Do you enjoy helping people, love books and reading, and feel comfortable using IT? As an Assistant Librarian you will assist customers of all ages in finding books and using IT, support events and promotions, manage stock, and keep the library tidy and welcoming. Physical demands include lifting and moving furniture and other materials. You will be responsible for locking up the library and supervising staff when a senior member is not on duty. Work is on a frontline basis across Brixton, Carnegie, Minet, Durning, and Upper Norwood libraries, Monday to Saturday between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm.
Staff Benefits
- Participation in five Staff Networks: Black, Asian, and Multi‑Ethnic, LGBTQ+, Disability, Young Professionals, and Women’s.
- Generous annual leave entitlement, starting at 27 days and increasing to up to 35 days based on length of service.
- Membership in the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- Discounts at local restaurants.
- Discount at Active Lambeth Gyms.
- Learning and Development opportunities, including Apprenticeships.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
- Secure Bike Storage at Town Hall and Civic Centre.
- Trade Union Membership.
Application Requirements
Successful candidates will be asked to apply for a Basic Certificate from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). A Cifas check is also required.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
At Lambeth, we are dedicated to providing quality services and equal opportunities for all. We are a Stonewall diversity champion, a Living Wage Employer, and guarantee interviews for all disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria of the role. We actively support applications from Lambeth Care Leavers.
Assistant Librarian employer: London Borough Of Lambeth
Lambeth Borough is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work environment in the heart of South London. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, employees benefit from generous annual leave, participation in various staff networks, and ample opportunities for professional development. The supportive culture encourages a love for reading and community engagement, making it a rewarding place to work for those passionate about helping others.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Librarian
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Lambeth Libraries on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and the team, plus it shows our genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your library knowledge. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in library services and think about how we can contribute to events and promotions. It’ll help us stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off our passion for reading and helping others during the interview. Share personal stories about how we've helped someone find a book or learn a new skill. It’s all about connecting with the role!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, we can tailor our application to highlight how we fit perfectly with Lambeth's values and community spirit.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Librarian
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Libraries:When writing your application, let your love for books and reading shine through! We want to see how you connect with the role of Assistant Librarian and how you can inspire others in our vibrant community.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant skills and experiences. We’re looking for someone who can assist customers of all ages, so share any past experiences that showcase your customer service skills!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your enthusiasm for the role comes across without any fluff!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in Lambeth Libraries.
How to prepare for a job interview at London Borough Of Lambeth
✨Know Your Libraries
Familiarise yourself with the Lambeth Libraries and their services. Understand the community they serve and the events they host. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you connect with the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your IT Skills
As an Assistant Librarian, you'll be helping customers with IT. Be prepared to discuss your own IT skills and experiences. Maybe even think of a time when you helped someone solve a tech issue – it’ll demonstrate your problem-solving abilities.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Reading
Share your love for books and reading during the interview. Mention your favourite genres or authors, and how you believe reading can impact the community. This will resonate well with the team’s mission to encourage a love of reading.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Think about how you would handle various situations in the library, like managing stock or assisting a customer. Practising these scenarios can help you feel more confident and ready to tackle any questions they throw your way.
