At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist customers with library enquiries and provide IT support.
- Company: Join a community-focused library team in Staffordshire.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive work environment and a healthy work-life balance.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for personal growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on your community while working with books and people.
- Qualifications: Customer service experience and a passion for helping others.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Do you want to work in the valued community setting of a library? In this busy customer facing role, you will be dealing with customers face to face, via email or by telephone to help answer day to day library enquiries. Providing a high standard of customer service, you will help us to deliver a range of services that support the library offers, including the provision of IT support, information and activities for all ages. Activities will include children's rhyme times, craft sessions and book-related events. In a busy library you will help people to access the full range of library resources and will contribute to people's positive experience of using our service. You will be based at Newcastle Library (Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire), but will be required to work at other libraries in the District, including Kidsgrove, Biddulph or Leek. The library is open daily Monday to Saturday.
Main Responsibilities:
- Helping customers find the information and resources they need
- Providing essential digital support to customers using computers within the library or accessing e-services
- Supporting projects and activities for all ages especially the young
- Promoting library stock, services and events through social media and outreach events
- Helping process bus pass and Blue Badge applications
- Sales and cash handling
The Ideal Candidate:
- Good time management skills
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team
- A passion for working with and helping customers, demonstrating recent experience of serving customers of all ages from across the whole community, face to face.
- High level of self-motivation and ability to work on own initiative
- Personal drive, confidence, and enthusiasm
- Flexibility and adaptability
- An interest in books, reading and work with children, delivering activities such as rhyme and story times.
Interviews will be held week of the 8th Dec 2025. For more information about the role please contact: samantha.mellenchip@staffordshire.gov.uk or esther.williams@staffordshire.gov.uk. Please note we may close this advert early should we receive a large volume of applications, so please don’t delay submitting your application if interested.
As part of our commitment as a Disability Confident employer, a Gold Award Armed Forces employer and our commitment to supporting care leavers - we offer a guaranteed interview as long as your application meets the minimum criteria for the post. This position is subject to a criminal record check from the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Library Assistant employer: Staffordshire County Council
Staffordshire County Council is an exceptional employer that fosters a strong sense of community and belonging among its staff. With a commitment to employee growth, a supportive work environment, and a focus on work-life balance, you will find ample opportunities to develop your career while making a meaningful impact in the lives of residents. Working at Newcastle Library and other locations in the district allows you to engage with diverse communities, promoting literacy and learning through various activities and services.
Contact Details:
Staffordshire County Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Library Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the library! Before your interview, visit the Newcastle Library and other locations if you can. Familiarise yourself with their services and activities. This will not only help you answer questions but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer service skills! Think of examples from your past experiences where you've helped customers, especially in a busy environment. Be ready to share these stories during your interview to demonstrate your passion for helping others.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your flexibility! Since you'll be working at different libraries, highlight any previous experience where you've adapted to new environments or worked with diverse groups. This will prove you're ready for the dynamic nature of the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and contributing to the community spirit we value so much.
We think you need these skills to ace Library Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Libraries:When you're writing your application, let your love for libraries shine through! Talk about any experiences you've had with books, reading, or community activities. We want to see that you’re excited about helping others discover the joy of reading.
Highlight Customer Service Skills:This role is all about interacting with customers, so make sure to showcase your customer service experience. Share specific examples of how you've helped people in the past, whether face-to-face or over the phone. We love a good story!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for the team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our community at Staffordshire County Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Staffordshire County Council
✨Know Your Library Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the library's services, resources, and upcoming events. Being able to discuss specific programmes like children's rhyme times or craft sessions will show your genuine interest and help you connect with the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've provided excellent customer service. Highlight situations where you helped someone find information or resolved an issue, as this role is all about assisting customers face-to-face and online.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since you'll be working in a team, think of instances where you've collaborated effectively with others. Share how you contributed to a positive team environment, especially in busy settings, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Be Ready for Flexibility Questions
Expect questions about your adaptability, especially since you'll be working at different libraries. Prepare to discuss how you've handled changes in your work environment or schedule, showcasing your flexibility and willingness to help wherever needed.
