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- Tasks: Lead the Library & Archives team to deliver engaging services and manage diverse collections.
- Company: Join National Museums Scotland, a leading museum group with a creative and inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, pension contributions, free museum access, and wellbeing support from day one.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while supporting research and learning for all.
- Qualifications: Degree in Library Science or equivalent, plus experience in managing teams and customer-focused services.
- Other info: Exciting career growth opportunities in one of Europe's largest museum collections.
The predicted salary is between 42765 - 46051 £ per year.
Full Time Salary: £42,765-£46,051 (further pay award pending)
Hours: 35 hours per week
Location: National Museums Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh
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 and service-driven manager to join our Library and Archives team.
Benefits of joining us as our Library & Archives Manager include:
- Annually alongside your salary, National Museums Scotland contributes 28.97% of this 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 days public holidays.
- Free access to national (and international) museums and exhibitions
- A range of wellbeing benefits including Employee Assistance Programme 24/7
- Access to all the above and more from day one of employment.
About the Library & Archives Manager role:
With the largest museum library collection in Scotland, our library and Archives team supports the research and learning needs of Museum staff, visitors, and the wider external research community with two publicly accessible library spaces - the Research Library in the National Museum of Scotland (our main reading room) and the National War Museum Library. Reporting to the Head of Collections Services, the new post holder will lead the Library & Archives team in the effective management, development, and delivery of library and Archives services to Museum staff and visitors, and online enquirers.
As the Library & Archives Manager at National Museums Scotland you will:
- Plan, promote and deliver customer-facing library and Archives services for National Museums Scotland, to meet the needs of target audiences.
- Develop, manage and catalogue the library collection, including special collections and Archives, implementing strategies to ensure research, business, and public engagement goals are met as appropriate.
- Effectively manage library and Archives collections and storage spaces to ensure most effective use of, and access to, resources.
- Be responsible for the development and management of National Museums Scotland’s Research Repository working collaboratively with external and internal stakeholders to develop and increase access to the Repository as appropriate.
Skills and experience we’re looking for in our Library & Archives Manager:
- A degree and / or postgraduate qualification in Library and Information Science, or equivalent
- High level of expertise in the use of electronic and printed information resources, tools and searching methodologies, including Open Access
- Experience of managing and developing a team, including through change
- Experience of managing and developing customer-focused library and Archives services
- Significant experience of managing acquisition budgets, and negotiating and delivering best value contracts with suppliers
- Significant experience of ensuring the delivery of electronic information resources, including the Research Repository
The closing date for this role is 16/02/2026 (16 FEB 2026). The Selection Event is likely to take place 09/03/2026 (9 MAR 2026).
Library and Archives Manager in Old Town employer: National Museums Scotland
Contact Detail:
National Museums Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Library and Archives Manager in Old Town
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the library and archives sector, especially those connected to National Museums Scotland. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends in library and archive management. Show us you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about what’s happening in the field. We love candidates who are forward-thinking!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a follow-up! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in our minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing the job. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Library and Archives Manager in Old Town
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Library & Archives Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with our values of being Creative, Inclusive, Collaborative, and Forward-thinking.
Showcase Your Passion: Let us see your enthusiasm for libraries and archives! Share specific examples of how you've contributed to similar projects or initiatives in the past. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about the work they do.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our Careers Portal! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Museums Scotland
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of library and archive management. Brush up on your knowledge of electronic and printed information resources, as well as any recent trends in Open Access. This will show that you’re not just qualified but genuinely passionate about the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since the role involves managing a team, be prepared to discuss your experience in leading and developing teams. Think of specific examples where you’ve successfully navigated change or improved services. This will demonstrate your capability to lead the Library & Archives team effectively.
✨Understand Their Values
National Museums Scotland values creativity, inclusivity, collaboration, and forward-thinking. During the interview, weave these values into your responses. Share examples of how you’ve embodied these principles in your previous roles to align yourself with their organisational culture.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the Library & Archives team’s current projects or future goals. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you. Plus, it gives you a chance to engage with the interviewers on a deeper level.
