At a Glance
- Tasks: Help your community access library services and support tech queries.
- Company: Join Suffolk County Council, a passionate team dedicated to community improvement.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible hours, and generous leave entitlements.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team that values creativity and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact while engaging with diverse community members.
- Qualifications: Customer service experience and a love for books and technology are essential.
The predicted salary is between 25185 - 25185 £ per year.
Suffolk County Council is passionate about improving the future for our customers, our communities and the environment. If you are too, join us as a Library and Information Advisor and make a huge and meaningful impact. Your innovation and drive will help us to continue improving and evolving. Our opportunities and support will enable you to make a difference and leave a positive, lasting legacy.
Your role and responsibilities
- Deliver excellent customer service to a wide range of visitors, including children, families and older adults.
- Support customers with using library services, from borrowing books to navigating digital resources.
- Run and support activities such as children’s story time, crafts, and community events.
- Help customers with IT queries, including using mobile devices, email, and social media.
- Work closely with volunteers and community groups to raise the library’s profile and deliver outreach services.
- Carry out core library tasks such as shelving, stock management, taking payments, and creating displays.
This is a physically active role that involves bending and lifting.
What you will need
- Can deliver great customer service to people of all ages.
- Communicates effectively and builds positive, supportive relationships with customers, colleagues, and the wider community.
- Is confident engaging with young people and enthusiastic about delivering activities like children’s crafts and story sessions.
- Is IT literate and comfortable using the internet, social media, email, mobile devices and apps—and can guide others in using them too.
- Works well as part of a team and is happy to support colleagues.
- Is willing to learn and carry out the full range of library procedures, including shelving, lending, self-service support, taking payments, stock work, displays, and rearranging the library space when needed.
If you’ve worked in a customer-facing role, enjoy helping people, and have experience working with children, we’d love to hear from you. An interest in books and computers is a big plus.
The team
You’ll be joining a friendly, supportive team that’s passionate about making the library a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone. We work closely with volunteers, community groups, and schools to deliver a wide range of services and events. Our team values collaboration, creativity, and a shared commitment to helping people thrive.
Empowering Everyone
We’re big believers in potential, possibility and the power of different ideas. We’re always searching for ways to encourage, respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation.
For more information
Please contact Victoria Donohoe for a casual conversation. You can reach them by emailing victoria.donohoe@suffolk.gov.uk
How to apply
- Step 1 - Read the Job and Person Profile.
- Step 2 - Click 'Apply Now' to start your online application.
- Step 3 - Upload a supporting statement answering the following questions below (no more than 400 words per question).
- Step 4 - Upload a CV (Curriculum Vitae) without name and personal details.
Please note: Without a supporting statement and CV, your interest will not be progressed. Any supporting documents must be in either PDF or MS Word format.
Closing date: 11.30 pm, 6 April 2026. Interview date: 15 April 2026.
This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.
In return, you’ll enjoy:
- up to 29 days annual leave entitlement (pro rata), plus UK bank holidays and two paid volunteering days
- membership of a competitive Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
- travel, lifestyle, health and wellbeing benefits
- performance-related annual pay progression, in addition to an annual cost-of-living pay increase
- training and encouragement to expand your knowledge
- a variety of career development opportunities across our organisation
- diverse and active staff networks
- flexible working options, with the right to request flexible working from your first day
If you want to know more about our benefits, values and equality commitments please visit our Suffolk County Council careers website.
Library & Information Advisor — Community Access & Tech Help in Stowmarket employer: Suffolk County Council
Suffolk County Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises community engagement and personal growth, making it a perfect fit for those passionate about public service. With a supportive work culture, flexible working options, and a commitment to employee development, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in your local community while enjoying generous benefits such as up to 29 days of annual leave and membership in a competitive pension scheme. Join us at Stowmarket Library and be part of a team dedicated to fostering inclusivity and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Library & Information Advisor — Community Access & Tech Help in Stowmarket
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the library and its community! Spend some time visiting the library, chatting with staff and customers. This will help you understand the vibe and what people are looking for, making it easier to connect during your interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for helping others! Think of specific examples where you've gone above and beyond for a customer or organised an engaging activity. We want to see that spark in you, so don’t hold back!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend to do a mock interview with you. Focus on how you communicate your experiences and how you can contribute to the library's mission. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll shine!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team. Don’t forget to tailor your supporting statement to highlight your relevant skills and experiences!
We think you need these skills to ace Library & Information Advisor — Community Access & Tech Help in Stowmarket
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job and Person Profile:Before diving into your application, take a good look at the Job and Person Profile. It’ll give you a clear idea of what we’re looking for and help you tailor your application to show us why you’re the perfect fit!
Craft Your Supporting Statement:When writing your supporting statement, make sure to answer the specific questions we've asked. Use real examples from your experience that highlight your customer service skills and ability to engage with children. Keep it concise but impactful!
Show Off Your Personality:We want to see the real you! Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your application. Share your passion for libraries and community work, and how you can contribute to making our library a welcoming space for everyone.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to apply through our website for a smooth process. Remember, without a supporting statement and CV, we won’t be able to progress your application, so double-check everything before hitting submit!
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk County Council
✨Know Your Community
Before the interview, take some time to research the local community and the specific needs of the library users. Understanding the demographics and interests of the visitors will help you demonstrate your commitment to delivering excellent customer service.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you went above and beyond for a customer. Think about situations that highlight your ability to engage with people of all ages, especially children, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Be Ready for Practical Scenarios
Expect to discuss how you would handle various tasks, such as running children's activities or assisting with IT queries. Practise articulating your thought process and approach to these scenarios, as it shows your readiness for the role.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Collaboration
Since you'll be working closely with volunteers and community groups, be prepared to talk about your experience in team settings. Highlight any collaborative projects you've been part of and how you contributed to their success.
