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- Tasks: Support library services, manage enquiries, and oversee collections at the National Museum of Scotland.
- Company: Join one of Europe's leading museum groups with a diverse global collection.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and exclusive discounts from day one.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative, inclusive team making a real impact in the community.
- Qualifications: Experience in libraries or information services and strong ICT skills are essential.
- Other info: Apply by 01/06/2025; selection event on 16/06/2025.
The predicted salary is between 30900 - 35100 £ per year.
Full Time Salary: £36,932 to £40,123 pro rata, subject to change due to Pay Award for 2025-26 pending.
Location: National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh | Hybrid.
National Museums Scotland is one of the leading museum groups in Europe with one of the largest and most diverse collections in the world. As an organisation, our values are Creative, Inclusive, Collaborative and Forward-thinking. We are looking for an enthusiastic, passionate, service-driven individual to join our Library and Archives team.
Benefits of joining us as our Assistant Librarian will include:
- National Museums Scotland contributes 28.97% of your salary towards you being a member of the Civil Service Pension Scheme.
- A generous annual leave of 28.5 days – rising to 33.5 after 5 years, plus an additional 8 paid public holidays.
- Cycle to Work scheme.
- Free access to national (and international) museums and exhibitions.
- Exclusive discounts on both local and national High Street and online retailers.
- A range of wellbeing benefits including Employee Assistance Programme 24/7.
- Flexible working options such as hybrid working, part-time working, paid special leave, career breaks and unpaid leave.
- Access to all the above and more from day one of employment.
About the Assistant Librarian role:
The new post holder will report to the Library and Archives Manager and play a key role in providing professional support, and in the effective development and delivery of library services to Museum staff and visitors, and online enquirers. As an Assistant Librarian at National Museums Scotland you will:
- Be responsible for day-to-day management, planning, delivery and evaluation of core service areas including the Library enquiry desks, the Library Management System, Archives and Special Collections, user training, marketing and collections management of physical and online resources.
- Line manage staff including involvement in induction, appraisal and development.
- Participate in the process of negotiating and producing collections and service-related policies and best practice.
- Sourcing and/or creating high quality metadata for printed and online resources utilising relevant standards (e.g., MARC21, Dublin Core, AACR2, RDA).
Skills and experience we’re looking for in our Assistant Librarian:
- Experience of working in a library or information service in a museum, other heritage organisation or similar environment.
- Experience in the use of fully automated, integrated library systems (Koha or similar).
- Excellent ICT skills, with a high level of competence using windows-based office applications (MS Word, Excel, Outlook) and information resources in print and online.
- Experience of the range of functions within Libraries to include enquiries service, cataloguing, classification, shelving, stocktaking, cleaning and inspection of the collection, re-ordering, and marketing.
Hiring the right person for the right job is everything to us. We want to encourage you to apply if you think this is the role for you. Please be sure to view our recruitment pack for this role (available on our careers website: careers.nms.ac.uk) for full details of the position that may help with your application. The closing date for this role is 01/06/2025. The Selection Event is likely to take place 16/06/2025.
Assistant Librarian employer: National Museums Scotland
Contact Detail:
National Museums Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Librarian
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the National Museums Scotland's values: Creative, Inclusive, Collaborative, and Forward-thinking. Tailor your conversations during networking or interviews to reflect how you embody these values in your work.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with current trends in library and information services, especially those relevant to museums. Being knowledgeable about innovative practices can set you apart during discussions with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the museum and library sectors. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even referrals for the Assistant Librarian position.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with library management systems like Koha. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've used technology to enhance library services, as this will demonstrate your technical competence.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Librarian
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and skills required for the Assistant Librarian position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Craft a Strong CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your relevant experience in library services, particularly in a museum or heritage environment. Use bullet points for clarity and focus on achievements that demonstrate your skills.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation. Mention specific examples of your experience with library management systems and user training, and explain why you are a good fit for National Museums Scotland.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for the Assistant Librarian role.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Museums Scotland
✨Show Your Passion for Libraries
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for library services and how they contribute to the community. Share any personal experiences or projects that highlight your passion for information services.
✨Demonstrate Relevant Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous roles in libraries or similar environments. Highlight specific tasks you've undertaken, such as managing enquiries or using library management systems, to show you have the necessary skills.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Their Values
National Museums Scotland values creativity, inclusivity, collaboration, and forward-thinking. Think of examples from your past work that align with these values and be ready to share them during the interview.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. This shows your interest in the role and helps you understand more about the team dynamics and expectations.
