Library Assistant

Be part of the vision; be part of RIBA. RIBA is a global professional membership body and a cultural organisation, driving excellence in architecture.

Salary: c£29,000 per annum

Location: London: The London Archives/Crown Fine Art, Stockwell

Hours: 35 hours per week, full time, fixed-term contract until December 2027. There may be occasional opportunities for home working; however, this is not a regular arrangement, and the role is primarily based on-site.

About the Role

We are looking for a Library Assistant to support the effective day-to-day operation of the library and its public-facing services, acting as a key point of contact for members, researchers, and visitors. Working across enquiry desk duties, email and phone support, and collection services, the position focuses on delivering a professional, welcoming, and knowledgeable service. It also contributes to the care, accessibility, and promotion of library resources, while assisting with administrative, operational, and project-based activities to ensure a high-quality user experience.

What are we looking for?

• Essential

• Excellent inter-personal and communication skills with proven experience in a customer-service environment.
• Professional and confident manner, able to deal sensitively and effectively with complex and sometimes difficult enquiries.
• Computer/Information Technology literate.
• Sound knowledge of Microsoft Office.
• Able to offer basic technical support for library equipment, including OPACs and scanners.
• Experience of working with library management systems desirable.
• Accuracy and attention to detail and the ability to follow procedures when dealing with records, data management and financial transactions/invoicing.
• Reliability and an ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

• Demonstrable interest in library and information work.
• Keen interest in architecture and/or the related arts.
• Prior experience of working within a membership body and/or library environment or in the architecture or construction sector desirable.

RIBA offers an amazing employee benefits package which includes:

• a generous pension scheme with employer contributions (up to 12%),
• life assurance,
• annual leave of 27 days plus bank holidays and paid closure of 3 discretionary days between Christmas and New Year.

If you would like to apply for the position, please submit your CV and covering letter on our website after you click "Apply". Please note that applications without a covering letter will not be considered and we will only review applications received directly through our company website.

Closing date: 6th April 2026

Interview date: 28th April 2026

Due to high volumes of applications, we are unable to respond to everyone; however, should you be shortlisted for interview we will be in touch. We may also close an advert earlier than the date above if we receive enough quality applications.

Please note that you must be able to demonstrate that you have the Right to Work in the UK. We are unable to proceed with any candidates who cannot show the relevant documentation so please only apply if you meet these criteria. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship.

RIBA aims to be an inclusive employer, committed to building an authentic and diverse environment where all are encouraged to be themselves. We champion work/life balance and welcome requests for flexible working across our organisation. We value applications from all sections of society and appreciate divergent experience; therefore, if you are excited about the role and working with us, yet your experience may not align perfectly with every single skill or competency, we encourage you to apply anyway.