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- Tasks: Support library operations, assist users, and manage collections 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) employer: RFCSR
Contact Detail:
RFCSR Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Library Assistant (Access Services)
✨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 referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your library knowledge. Familiarise yourself with current trends in access services and think about how you can contribute to creating an inclusive environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your organisational skills! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've managed multiple tasks in previous roles. We love hearing about real-life experiences that demonstrate your capabilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who want to make a difference in the library community.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Library Assistant (Access Services)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Senior Library Assistant role. Highlight any relevant library or customer service experience, and don’t forget to mention your organisational skills and attention to detail!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about working in a library environment and how you can contribute to creating a welcoming space for all users. Be sure to connect your past experiences to the job description.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves supporting a diverse user community, make sure to demonstrate your strong interpersonal and communication skills in your application. Share examples of how you've effectively assisted others in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at RFCSR
✨Know Your Library Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your library knowledge! Familiarise yourself with the services offered at Magdalen College and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their mission. Understanding the specific needs of students and researchers will show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Show Off Your Organisational Skills
Since this role requires strong organisational skills, prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed multiple tasks. Think about times when you had to prioritise or streamline processes, as this will demonstrate your ability to handle the day-to-day operations of the library.
✨Communicate Like a Pro
Good communication is key in this role, so practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Be ready to discuss how you've supported diverse user communities in previous positions. Highlight any experience you have with customer service or assisting users with enquiries, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Be a Team Player
This position involves supervising library assistants and working collaboratively within a team. Prepare to share examples of how you've worked effectively in a team setting. Emphasise your proactive approach and willingness to support others, as this will align with the collaborative environment at Magdalen College.