At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the library team and enhance our poetry collections for all to enjoy.
- Company: Join the Scottish Poetry Library, a vibrant arts charity in Edinburgh.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, creative environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team making a difference in the literary world.
- Why this job: Shape the future of poetry access and engage with a passionate community.
- Qualifications: Experience in library management and a love for poetry and culture.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Scottish Poetry Library (SPL) is seeking a professional librarian to develop our physical and digital collections and to manage our library service staff. The SPL provides free public lending and reference resources from its library building at the foot of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh.
The post is for 30 hours a week, Monday to Thursday. The Head Librarian manages an Assistant Librarian and Customer Services Officer, as well as placements and work experience opportunities that the SPL hosts. As part of the Senior Management Team, the successful candidate will help to shape the delivery of the SPL's business plan.
A commitment to providing high-quality customer services for nurturing a welcoming environment is important. Applicants should also demonstrate an understanding of the cultural, social and wellbeing benefits brought about by the poetry library’s engagement with writers, publishers and borrowers.
The Head Librarian will make a commitment to uphold, promote and defend the ethical principles and values of the professional body CILIP, including intellectual freedom, freedom from censorship and the right of all individuals to privacy.
To apply, please review the job specification in the attached file and send your CV with a covering letter to Asif Khan, SPL Director.
The SPL is an independent arts charity with national and international reach. Core funding is provided by Creative Scotland and City of Edinburgh Council.
Head Librarian employer: Scottish Poetry Library
The Scottish Poetry Library is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in a vibrant cultural hub at the heart of Edinburgh. With a strong commitment to employee development and a collaborative work culture, staff are encouraged to engage with the community and contribute to the library's mission of promoting poetry and literature. The SPL values ethical principles and provides a supportive environment for personal and professional growth, making it an ideal place for those passionate about the arts and public service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Librarian
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at the Scottish Poetry Library on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for poetry and libraries in interviews. Share personal stories about how poetry has impacted you or how you've engaged with library services. It’ll make us memorable!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare thoughtful questions for your interview. Ask about their vision for the library's future or how they engage with the community. This shows we’re genuinely interested and invested.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows we’re tech-savvy and keen on the process.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Librarian
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role of Head Librarian and what the SPL is all about. Dive into their mission and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you tailor your application to show that you're the perfect fit!
Craft a Stellar Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about poetry and libraries. Share specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your skills in managing teams and developing collections. Keep it engaging and personal – we want to get to know you!
Showcase Your Skills:When updating your CV, highlight relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. Focus on your management experience, customer service skills, and any work you've done with digital collections. Make it easy for us to see how you can contribute to the SPL's mission.
Apply Through Our Website:Once you're happy with your CV and cover letter, head over to our website to submit your application. It's the easiest way for us to receive your materials, and it shows you're keen to join our team. Don't forget to double-check everything before hitting send!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Poetry Library
✨Know Your Collections
Familiarise yourself with both the physical and digital collections of the Scottish Poetry Library. Be ready to discuss how you would develop these resources further and engage with the community. Showing your passion for poetry and literature will definitely impress!
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As the Head Librarian, you'll be managing a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, particularly in a library or educational setting. Highlight your approach to nurturing a welcoming environment and providing high-quality customer service.
✨Understand the Ethical Principles
Brush up on the ethical principles and values upheld by CILIP. Be prepared to discuss how you would promote intellectual freedom and privacy rights within the library. This shows that you align with the SPL's mission and values.
✨Engage with the Community
Think about ways to enhance the library's engagement with writers, publishers, and borrowers. Come up with innovative ideas for events or programmes that could benefit the community. This demonstrates your commitment to the cultural and social impact of the library.
