At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver a welcoming library service and support users with resources and technology.
- Company: Join the vibrant Taunton Library team focused on community engagement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, ongoing training, and a chance to inspire a love of reading.
- Other info: Flexible hours and a supportive environment for personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths, plus a passion for books and technology.
A Customer facing role based at Taunton Library. Regretfully, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role. We are only able to proceed with candidates who already have the right to work in the UK without the need for visa sponsorship.
As a Library and Information Assistant, you will deliver a welcoming, customer-focused library service, supporting a diverse range of users to access resources, digital services and self-service facilities. You will promote library activities and services, help customers use technology and online tools, and contribute to events and day-to-day operations. Working collaboratively with colleagues, volunteers and community partners, you will play a key role in creating an inclusive, accessible and well-presented library environment.
What you’ll do - key responsibilities
- Deliver a high-quality, customer-focused library service, responding to enquiries in person, by phone, email and online, and resolving issues or escalating where needed.
- Welcome visitors as a first point of contact and promote inclusive, accessible support in line with equality, diversity and wellbeing values.
- Help customers access library resources, digital services and self-service tools, supporting use of IT systems, online platforms and personal devices.
- Promote library services, events, reading materials and digital resources, encouraging independent use while supporting those who need additional help.
- Support and deliver a range of activities and events and inspire a love of reading for all ages.
- Maintain attractive, well-presented stock displays and a welcoming library environment.
- Work collaboratively with volunteers, community groups and partners, supporting positive volunteering opportunities.
- Contribute to service performance by understanding targets and maintaining compliance with relevant policies, including data protection and copyright.
What we’re looking for – knowledge, experience & skills
- Demonstrate knowledge of the legal requirements of the libraries service.
- Have a wide general knowledge, an interest in books, and a digital curiosity.
- Demonstrates knowledge and awareness of the attributes and library needs of particular user groups and community groups.
- Experience of communicating effectively with a wide range of people.
- Experience of confidently using digital technology and a variety of IT systems to support service delivery.
- Takes responsibility for own learning and personal development. Ongoing support, training and guidance will be offered.
- Confident in the use of digital technology.
- Ability to communicate with people at all levels effectively.
- Demonstrates excellent verbal and written communication skills with people at all levels and is numerate.
- Experience of working positively and proactively as part of a wider team.
- 2 GCSEs (or equivalent) at level 4 (grade C) including English and Maths.
- Ability to work with competing deadlines and prioritise work.
- Ability to share knowledge with colleagues, customers, partners and others.
- Ability to work with minimal supervision and use own initiative.
For an informal chat about the role, please contact Allison Ewan on 01823 356698 or Valerie Denslow on 01823 356699.
Saturday Library and Information Assistant in Taunton employer: Somerset-Council-1
As a Saturday Library and Information Assistant at Taunton Library, you will be part of a vibrant community-focused environment that values inclusivity and customer service. The role offers opportunities for personal development through ongoing training and collaboration with colleagues and volunteers, making it an excellent place for those passionate about promoting literacy and community engagement. With a commitment to equality, diversity, and wellbeing, this position allows you to make a meaningful impact while enjoying the supportive culture of a public library.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Saturday Library and Information Assistant in Taunton
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the library! Before your interview, visit Taunton Library and check out the vibe. Familiarise yourself with their services and events so you can chat about them during your conversation. It shows you're genuinely interested!
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer service skills! Think of scenarios where you might help a visitor or resolve an issue. Role-play with a friend or family member to boost your confidence in handling different situations.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current library staff on LinkedIn or attend local library events. Building relationships can give you insider info and make you stand out as a candidate who’s already engaged with the community.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications directly from candidates who are keen on joining us. Make sure to highlight your digital skills and any experience you have with diverse user groups in your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Saturday Library and Information Assistant in Taunton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Customer Service Skills:Make sure to highlight any experience you have in customer service. This role is all about delivering a welcoming library service, so let us know how you've helped others in the past!
Be Digital Savvy:Since you'll be helping customers with technology and online tools, mention your comfort level with digital services. Share examples of how you've used tech to assist others or improve processes.
Demonstrate Team Spirit:We love teamwork! Talk about your experiences working collaboratively with others, whether it's colleagues, volunteers, or community partners. Show us how you contribute to a positive environment.
Tailor Your Application:Take a moment to read through the job description and align your application with what we're looking for. Personalise your cover letter and CV to reflect your passion for libraries and community engagement!
How to prepare for a job interview at Somerset-Council-1
✨Know Your Library Basics
Brush up on the key responsibilities of a Library and Information Assistant. Understand the legal requirements of library services and be ready to discuss how you can promote inclusivity and accessibility in your role.
✨Show Off Your Digital Skills
Since this role involves helping customers with digital services, be prepared to talk about your experience with various IT systems and online platforms. Share specific examples of how you've used technology to enhance customer service.
✨Communicate Like a Pro
Effective communication is crucial in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Think of examples where you've successfully communicated with diverse groups or resolved customer issues.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
This position requires collaboration with colleagues and community partners. Be ready to share experiences where you've worked as part of a team, highlighting your ability to support others and contribute positively to group dynamics.
