At a Glance
- Tasks: Support library operations, assist users, and manage resources in a historic collegiate library.
- Company: Join the prestigious Magdalen College at the University of Oxford.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, standard college benefits, and a vibrant academic environment.
- Other info: Collaborative team atmosphere with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a difference in students' and researchers' lives while working in a beautiful setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in libraries or customer service, strong organisational and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 26000 - 30000 £ per year.
Magdalen College, University of Oxford, is recruiting for a Senior Library Assistant within its Library and Archives team. This role is based in one of Oxford’s historic collegiate libraries and contributes to the delivery of high-quality library services supporting students, Fellows, and researchers across the College community.
The position involves working within Access Services, ensuring smooth day-to-day operation of the library, including circulation duties, reader support, shelving and collection maintenance, and assisting with enquiries. The postholder will also contribute to the supervision of library assistants and student staff, supporting the effective management of library spaces and services.
The role includes responsibility for supporting users in accessing physical and digital resources, maintaining accurate library records, and assisting with the implementation of library policies and procedures. The successful candidate will also help ensure a welcoming, inclusive, and academically supportive environment for all users of the library.
The position is situated within a collaborative academic support environment and plays a key role in enabling teaching, learning, and research activities at Magdalen College.
Eligibility CriteriaApplicants should have relevant experience working in a library, academic, or customer service environment. A good standard of education is expected, along with demonstrable experience in administrative or service-focused roles. Prior experience in an academic library setting is desirable but not essential.
Required expertise/skillsCandidates should have strong organisational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently. Good interpersonal and communication skills are essential for supporting a diverse user community. Experience with library systems, IT applications, and digital resource management is advantageous. The ability to work both independently and as part of a team is required, along with a proactive and service-oriented approach.
Salary details£26,000 – £30,000 per annum (depending on experience), along with standard College benefits.
Application DeadlineNot explicitly specified in the source page.
Senior Library Assistant (Access Services) in Oxford employer: RFCSR
Contact Detail:
RFCSR Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Library Assistant (Access Services) in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former library staff at Magdalen College or similar institutions. A friendly chat can give us insider info on the role and maybe even a foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare examples of how you've handled circulation duties or supported users in previous roles. We want to see how you can bring that experience to the table during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you get an interview, think about questions you can ask about their library services and policies. This shows we’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we often have tips and resources available to help you ace the process.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Library Assistant (Access Services) in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in library services. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Senior Library Assistant, so don’t hold back on showcasing your organisational prowess and customer service experience!
Showcase Your Skills: When filling out your application, emphasise your strong interpersonal and communication skills. We’re looking for someone who can support a diverse user community, so share examples of how you've successfully interacted with different groups in previous roles.
Be Detail-Oriented: Attention to detail is key in this role! Make sure your application is free from typos and errors. We appreciate a well-organised application that reflects your ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently, just like you would in the library.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and securely. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Magdalen College!
How to prepare for a job interview at RFCSR
✨Know Your Library Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of library systems and digital resource management. Familiarise yourself with the specific services offered at Magdalen College, as this will show your genuine interest in the role and help you answer questions more confidently.
✨Show Off Your People Skills
Since this role involves supporting a diverse user community, be prepared to discuss your interpersonal skills. Think of examples where you've successfully assisted users or resolved conflicts in a customer service environment. This will demonstrate your ability to create a welcoming atmosphere.
✨Organisational Skills are Key
Highlight your organisational skills during the interview. Prepare to share specific instances where you've managed multiple tasks efficiently, especially in a library or academic setting. This will reassure them that you can handle the day-to-day operations smoothly.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the library's policies, procedures, and how they support teaching and research activities. This not only shows your enthusiasm for the role but also helps you gauge if the environment aligns with your values and work style.