At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in delivering engaging library activities and support the community.
- Company: Sefton Metropolitan Borough Council, committed to inclusivity and diversity.
- Benefits: Permanent position with flexible hours and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a diverse team and enjoy opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a difference in your community while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Good literacy and numeracy skills; customer service experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Employer: Sefton Metropolitan Borough Council
Location: Formby Library
Contract: Permanent
Hours: 4.50 hours per week. Saturday Working.
DBS Check: No
Closing Date: 07/08/2026 at 23:59
Reference: COMM/26/341568
About the Role
The successful candidate will help to deliver a range of activities in support of the library offer. We are looking for a team player; someone who is flexible in approach, and an excellent communicator with a positive outlook. This is a frontline position dealing face to face with the public, so experience of working in a customer-focussed environment will be an advantage.
A good standard of literacy and numeracy is essential, as is the ability to deal with a range of administrative and financial tasks. The People’s Network public-access computers operate throughout Sefton’s libraries and staff are required to handle basic enquiries on this and on other aspects of the service.
Desirable attributes include experience of participating in promotional and community activities, and the ability to participate in literacy activities such as story time sessions for children.
Applicants for posts at Grade D must be able to undertake facility-related security routines and handle financial transactions through a till.
The closing date for this vacancy is Friday 7th August 2026 (or earlier in the event of high volume of applications being received). Provisional interview dates are Wednesday 2nd September 2026.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES
Sefton Council strives to ensure that our workforce is inclusive and representative of our communities. A diverse workforce is important to us, our staff bring with them a wide range of experiences, views, ideas, and innovations, and we are committed to providing an environment that recognises, respects, and values everybody’s identity, where individual differences are strengths and where everyone can thrive and maximise their potential.
We are an Equal Opportunities Employer; all candidates will receive equal treatment. Our decision to appoint will be based upon whether an individual’s skills, experience, qualifications, and abilities make them the most suitable candidate for the role.
Please note that all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for these jobs (as given in the Person Specification) and who want to apply under the Disability Confident Scheme will be invited to interview. If you are currently in care or have previously been in care, we provide a guaranteed interview scheme for care experienced people if you meet the essential requirements for the role.
Library Assistant employer: Sefton Council
Sefton Council is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises the growth and development of its employees. With a strong focus on educational innovation, this role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community while benefiting from professional development programmes and collaborative partnerships. Working in Sefton not only allows you to contribute to the future of education but also provides a vibrant environment that values diversity and encourages creative solutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Library Assistant
✨Get to Know the Company Culture
Before jumping into applications, it’s super helpful to understand the vibe at Sefton Council. Check out their social media, read reviews on sites like Glassdoor, and see how they engage with customers. It'll give you clues on their values and help tailor your conversation during interviews.
✨Join Customer Support Communities
Dive into online communities like those on Reddit or LinkedIn where customer support pros hang out. Participating in discussions or asking questions can make you more visible to potential recruiters and help you learn about job openings at companies like Sefton Council before they even post them.
✨Attend Job Fairs or Networking Events
Look out for local job fairs or events specifically for customer support roles. This is your chance to meet hiring managers face-to-face, and you might even get the opportunity to interview on the spot!
✨Show Off Your Skills with Customer Interactions
In the customer support world, showcasing your communication skills is key. Consider creating a short video introducing yourself or even doing a mock call to showcase your abilities. It's a memorable way to stand out, especially if you can share this during your interview process!
We think you need these skills to ace Library Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Communication Skills:In customer support, clear communication is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you've had in customer-facing roles and your ability to resolve issues. Don't shy away from including specific examples of how you've gone above and beyond to help customers – this really shows your potential in the role.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Sefton Council:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you want to work at Sefton Council specifically. Mention any unique aspects of our company that resonate with you and how your skills can enhance our customer support. This personal touch will set your application apart from the rest!
Highlight Any Relevant Tools or Tech Skills:If you've used customer support software like Zendesk or Freshdesk or have experience with CRM systems, make sure to mention these in your application. Being familiar with industry-standard tools can be a big plus for us when we’re reviewing applications, as it shows you can hit the ground running!
Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Skills:Customer support roles often require a knack for problem-solving. In your application, share examples of past experiences where you've tackled tough situations or resolved conflicts effectively. This will give us a good sense of how you handle challenges—an essential skill for success at Sefton Council!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sefton Council
✨Show Off Your People Skills
In customer support, it's all about communicating effectively. Prepare to share instances from your past experiences where you handled difficult customers or resolved conflicts. We want to hear how you empathised and found the best solutions, so think of specific examples to back up your stories!
✨Know the Tools of the Trade
Familiarise yourself with common customer support tools like Zendesk or Freshdesk, and make sure to review how you’ve used any similar systems in the past. During the interview, being able to discuss your hands-on experience with software or ticketing systems can really set you apart from the competition, so don’t skip this prep!
✨Show Genuine Enthusiasm
As this is a full-time role, employers want someone who isn’t just looking for any job, but wants to grow within customer support. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for helping customers and your desire to develop your skills. Show them why you're passionate about this field!
✨Practice Common Scenarios
Be prepared for role-playing scenarios where you might have to reassess a solution with a frustrated customer or explain a complex process in simple terms. Practising these common scenarios can help us feel more confident and demonstrate our practical skills effectively during the interview.
