At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant library team and create engaging community activities.
- Company: Suffolk County Council, dedicated to making a difference in local communities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team environment, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Join a friendly team that values collaboration and creativity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while working in a creative, inclusive space.
- Qualifications: Customer service experience, strong communication skills, and a passion for helping others.
The predicted salary is between 28598 - 28598 £ per year.
Suffolk County Council is focused on making a meaningful difference to communities across Suffolk. As an Assistant Library Manager, you’ll play a key part in shaping a welcoming, vibrant, and community‑focused library environment. Working closely with the Library Manager, you’ll help lead a dedicated team, support the smooth running of daily operations, and ensure every visitor enjoys an excellent experience.
Your role will involve:
- Championing inclusive services and engaging activities
- Overseeing stock and supporting staff
- Maintaining high standards across the branch
This is a hands‑on, people‑focused role where your initiative, creativity, and commitment to outstanding service will make a real difference to the community. This is a physically active role that involves bending and lifting.
Your working pattern will be:
- Week 1: Tuesday 8am – 5pm (8 hours), Wednesday 8.30am – 5.45pm (8.25 hours), Thursday 8am – 5.45pm (8.75 hours), Friday 8am – 4.30pm (7.5 hours)
- Week 2: Tuesday 8am – 5pm (8 hours), Wednesday 8.30am – 5.45pm (8.25 hours), Thursday 8am – 5.45pm (8.75 hours), Saturday 8am – 5.15pm (8.25 hours)
We’re looking for someone who:
- 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
- Has strong organisational skills with the ability to manage stock, plan activities, and maintain a safe, well-presented environment
- Can stay calm, professional, and solution‑focused in challenging situations
- Is flexible to support different branches when required, including some weekend and evening work
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.
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.
We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation.
For more information, please contact Tracey Paris by emailing tracey.paris@suffolk.gov.uk.
How to apply:
- Read the Job and Person Profile (JPP).
- Click ‘Apply Now’ to start your online application.
- Upload a supporting statement answering specific questions.
- Upload a CV (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: 11.30pm, 19 July 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.
Assistant Library Manager (Internal) in Bury St Edmunds employer: Suffolk Jobs Direct
Suffolk County Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth of its employees and the communities they serve. As a Senior Planning Officer, you will enjoy a supportive work culture that values diversity and encourages professional development through mentoring opportunities. With flexible working options and a commitment to meaningful impact, this role offers a unique chance to shape the future of Suffolk while enjoying a balanced work-life environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Library Manager (Internal) in Bury St Edmunds
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Suffolk Jobs Direct, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Suffolk Jobs Direct and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Library Manager (Internal) in Bury St Edmunds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Suffolk Jobs Direct and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk Jobs Direct
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Suffolk Jobs Direct, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Suffolk Jobs Direct.
