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- Tasks: Assist customers, shelve books, provide digital help, and run engaging events.
- Company: Join Newham Libraries, a vibrant service enhancing community life through reading and digital engagement.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, inclusive environment, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that promotes literacy and community connection while having fun!
- Qualifications: Customer care experience, passion for libraries, and good IT skills are essential.
- Other info: We value diversity and practice anonymised recruitment to ensure fairness.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
Full time 36 hours - Monday - Saturday including evenings
£29,346 - £30,630 per annum
Newham Libraries is an ambitious library service that plays a pivotal role in improving the quality of life of our residents. Prior to the pandemic, the number of visits to libraries and the number of books borrowed were increasing year on year and are now bouncing back again. The service is well placed within the Council and works closely with Public Health and other services. Key priorities for the service are ensuring that our book stock is representative of and relevant to our communities; encouraging Reading for Pleasure for all; developing our Digital Lending offer; building on our innovative approach to the Summer Reading Challenge; developing our Under 5s offer; and delivering a high-quality library offer. There are 10 libraries across the borough delivering a high number of opening hours and a large number of events and activities.
Library and Senior Library Assistants have an essential role in delivering this ambition. They carry out a range of tasks including but not limited to:
- Assisting customers with transactions;
- Shelving of books and book displays;
- Providing digital assistance and basic digital skills sessions;
- Information provision and sign-posting;
- Running or supporting events and activities including Under 5s storytimes;
- Promoting books and reading;
- Supporting outreach activities or resident forums.
As duty managers, Senior Library Assistants may be required to open and close buildings; take bookings and payments; oversee staff activity; and carry out cashing up / banking functions.
The candidate will have excellent customer care skills and experience, will enjoy helping people and be genuinely passionate about the role of libraries in providing a range of opportunities for our residents. They should have libraries or similar customer focused experience, love reading and talking about books, enjoy STEM and digital engagement, have a good level of literacy, numeracy and IT skills, experience of running activities, and enjoy working with the public.
Closing date: 27th December 2024
We are committed to creating an inclusive, anti-racist environment for all. When you apply for a job at Newham, your application is considered on its merits regardless of your age, disability, ethnicity, faith, gender identity or sexual orientation. If you share our vision and values, and you bring the experience and skills we need, that’s all that matters to us.
The London Borough of Newham has important responsibilities for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. If you are appointed to a job that involves working with these groups, you may be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
Please attach your supporting statement, explaining in no more than x2 A4 sides why and how you meet the criteria for this role.
We practice anonymised recruitment. Please ensure that you remove all personal information from any documents that you upload.
Senior Library Assistant employer: Newham Council
Contact Detail:
Newham Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Library Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific services and initiatives that Newham Libraries are currently focusing on, such as their Digital Lending offer and the Summer Reading Challenge. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your enthusiasm and alignment with their goals during any interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with the local community by attending library events or participating in outreach activities. This hands-on experience will not only enhance your understanding of the role but also show your commitment to promoting reading and library services.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former library staff to gain insights into the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges of a Senior Library Assistant. This can provide you with valuable information to discuss in your interview and demonstrate your proactive approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to showcase your customer care skills by thinking of specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully assisted customers or managed events. Being able to articulate these experiences will highlight your suitability for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Library Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the key responsibilities and requirements for the Senior Library Assistant position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these expectations.
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: Prepare a supporting statement that clearly explains why you are a suitable candidate for the role. Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your customer care skills, passion for libraries, and ability to engage with the community.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to emphasise any previous experience in libraries or similar customer-focused roles. Discuss your familiarity with digital tools and your ability to run activities, as these are crucial for the position.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, thoroughly proofread your application to ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Newham Council
✨Show Your Passion for Libraries
Make sure to express your genuine love for libraries and reading during the interview. Share personal anecdotes about how libraries have impacted your life or how you’ve engaged with your community through reading initiatives.
✨Demonstrate Customer Care Skills
Prepare examples of how you've provided excellent customer service in previous roles. Highlight specific situations where you went above and beyond to assist customers, as this is crucial for a Senior Library Assistant.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Digital Tools
Since the role involves providing digital assistance, be ready to discuss your experience with digital tools and platforms. Mention any relevant skills or training you have that would help you support patrons in their digital engagement.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Anticipate questions that may ask how you would handle specific situations, such as managing a busy library environment or running an event for children. Think through your responses and consider how your past experiences can inform your approach.
