At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage the prison library and promote reading among inmates.
- Company: Lambeth Council, dedicated to community improvement and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension scheme, discounts, and development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a difference by enhancing literacy and fostering a love for reading.
- Qualifications: Experience in a prison environment and passion for promoting literacy.
- Other info: Join a diverse team with strong community values and growth potential.
The predicted salary is between 34359 - 35892 £ per year.
Overview
Assistant Prison Librarian REF: 2519. SC5: £34,359 pa rising in annual increments to £35,892 pa inc. Part-Time (24.5 Hours). Permanent Contract.
About Us
Lambeth Council is embarking on the transformational One Lambeth Programme to deliver excellence and equity in our communities. We have refreshed values and behaviours: Equity, Ambition, Kindness, and Accountability.
About the Borough
Lambeth is located in South London with a diverse community of over 317,600 residents. It is a vibrant borough with various landmarks, services, and cultural assets.
About the Team
The Prison Library team consists of this role and the Prison Librarian, with regular support from the Lambeth Libraries Development Librarian team who visit the prison.
About the Role
You will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the library and maintaining collections on the wings. You will support the prison orderlies working in the library and encourage use of the library by the wider prison community.
Qualifications and Shortlisting
To be considered for interview, your CV and supporting statement will clearly evidence:
You will have previous experience of working in a prison environment and understand the importance of improving literacy and reading for pleasure. In your CV, please address the shortlisting criteria in the job description.
For detailed qualifications and requirements, please review the job description and person specification in the linked document.
Contact Information
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Abibat Olulode (aolulode@lambeth.gov.uk) or Tim O\’Dell (toddell@lambeth.gov.uk).
Recruitment Timelines
Advert close date: 11:59pm on Sunday 26 October 2026.
Benefits
- Participation in 5 Staff Networks: Black, Asian, and Multi-Ethnic; LGBTQ+; Disability; Young Professionals; and Women.
- Generous annual leave entitlement starting from 27 days, increasing to up to 35 days depending 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 facilities at our Town Hall and Civic Centre.
- Trade Union Membership.
We operate an anonymised application process, so remove personal details when uploading your CV or personal statement. We are committed to safer recruitment and to equal opportunities for all, including protections for disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria. A Cifas check is required as part of the process. Lambeth actively supports applications from Lambeth Care Leavers.
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Assistant Prison Librarian employer: London Borough Of Lambeth
Contact Detail:
London Borough Of Lambeth Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Prison Librarian
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those who work in prison libraries or similar roles. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Lambeth Council and its values. Show us how your passion for literacy and community aligns with our mission. We love candidates who share our ambition and kindness!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions related to library management and working in a prison environment. Think about scenarios where you've improved literacy or engaged a community – we want to hear your stories!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at Lambeth Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Prison Librarian
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Assistant Prison Librarian role. Highlight your experience in a prison environment and any relevant skills that show you understand the importance of literacy and reading for pleasure.
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Clearly address the shortlisting criteria mentioned in the job description, and don’t be shy about showcasing your passion for improving literacy within the prison community.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and concise. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We want to see your personality come through, so let your enthusiasm for the role shine!
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at London Borough Of Lambeth
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of an Assistant Prison Librarian inside and out. Familiarise yourself with the importance of literacy and reading for pleasure in a prison environment. This will show your passion for the role and your commitment to improving the lives of the residents.
✨Tailor Your CV and Statement
When applying, ensure your CV and supporting statement directly address the shortlisting criteria mentioned in the job description. Highlight any relevant experience in a prison setting and how it aligns with the values of Lambeth Council, such as Equity and Kindness.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenging situations. Think about scenarios you might face in the role and prepare thoughtful responses that demonstrate your ability to support both the library users and the prison orderlies.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
During the interview, let your passion for reading and community engagement shine through. Discuss any initiatives you've been involved in that promote literacy or library use, and express your eagerness to contribute to the One Lambeth Programme and the wider prison community.