Library Assistant - Penicuik Library - MID07480

Our libraries are at the heart of our communities, and we are looking for creative and enthusiastic people to join our library team. This role consists of assisting in the delivery of a comprehensive range of library services, promoting the aims of the service and taking part in a full range of activities for children and adults to help encourage literacy, learning and social inclusion through library use. We encourage applications from those with a strong customer-focused approach who will contribute to ensuring that our libraries continue to be the focal point for our communities.

Day to day work will be varied and will demand a high quality of customer service at all times. Administrative tasks, supporting users to access the library appropriately, and helping with information, signposting and ICT will be commonplace. Postholders will also be involved in a full range of library events and promotional activities for adults and children, including supporting author visits, creating displays, story-telling and craft activities helping all groups to discover the joy of reading and learning. Library Assistants will also be regularly delivering Bookbug sessions for babies and families, encouraging and supporting literacy through singing, rhymes and stories. Whilst we recruit to individual branches, staff may occasionally be expected to work at any library if required to.

KNOWLEDGE

The post holder must provide evidence of competency in literacy and numeracy skills such as a minimum of three Standard Grade level 3 passes, including English and Mathematics, or an SVQ2 or equivalent. The European Computer Driving Licence is a desirable qualification for this position. Relevant experience in a library or customer service role is desirable. The jobholder should be flexible with good communication and team working skills. You must have an interest in the Library Service and a commitment to the provision of an efficient and customer-focused service. Knowledge of different types of software and use of the internet is required in order to assist users with associated computer equipment.

CLOSING DATE - 31st May 2026

INTERVIEW DATE - 18th June 2026

Responsibilities

This post is considered Regulated Work with Children under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act, 2007. Therefore, it is an offence to apply if you are barred from working with children. Successful candidates will require PVG Scheme membership for Regulated Work with Children. You will be required to join the Scheme or undergo a PVG Scheme Update check prior to commencing employment with Midlothian Council, the cost of which will be met by you.

If you have difficulty applying for this post or accessing attached documents, or if you have a disability and reasonable adjustment is required, please email recruitment@midlothian.gov.uk to discuss with a member of the Recruitment Team stating the post reference number.

Midlothian Council is currently undergoing a period of transformation, changing and improving the way it delivers services in Midlothian. As a consequence, there are a number of existing employees for whom we are committed to seeking suitable alternative employment within the Council in accordance with our legal obligations. Candidates are advised that, for some vacancies, internal candidates in this situation will be interviewed before the wider selection pool and a slightly longer delay may be experienced before application outcomes can be advised to you.

If you are a trainee of a Midlothian Council Training Programme, have a disability or you are a care experienced young person who has previously been a looked after child, you are eligible for a guaranteed interview if you meet the essential criteria for the post.