At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist library visitors, manage book stock, and lead engaging community events.
- Company: Surrey Libraries are vibrant community hubs promoting learning and cultural experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days holiday, lifestyle discounts, and a supportive Employee Assistance Programme.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team making a positive impact in the community with diverse tasks.
- Qualifications: Enthusiasm for customer service and creativity; no specific experience required.
- Other info: Flexible working hours on Saturdays; opportunity to work across multiple libraries.
Based at Horsley Library, the starting salary for this role is Β£12.42 per hour working 3 hours per week, 10-1pm (Saturdays). The full-time equivalent salary is Β£23,322 per annum. We are looking for an enthusiastic and self-motivated Weekend Library Assistant to join our dedicated team. You will be based at Horsley Library, you will also be required to work at Guildford and Cobham Libraries. Libraries are spaces for social interaction, learning and cultural experiences. Acting as an economic enabler providing support for local communities and businesses. Surrey\βs libraries offer vital services to all members of their communities. Rewards and Benefits 26 days\β holiday (prorated for part time staff), rising to 28 days after 2 years\β service and 31 days after 5 years\β service Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave An extensive Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing Up to 5 days of carer\βs leave per year Paternity, adoption and dependents leave A generous local government salary related pension Lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, shopping and many more Learning and development hub where you can access a wealth of resources About the Team Surrey Libraries hold a unique place in our communities. They provide universal access through a programme of reading, learning digital, health and wellbeing activities. Our vision is for our libraries to become hubs of the community that all are proud of. With excellent customer service at its heart, we need people who share this passion to become more successful. About the Role There is something for everyone at Surrey\βs libraries and the same day never happens twice. The library is many different things to many different people. Curious readers come looking for their next adventure. Students meet to revise for their exams. Families gather for Storytime and Rhymetime. Special interest groups share their passions and older people access resources and secure their bus pass. Weekend Assistants greet each person with a positive attitude and resilient approach to any request. Customer service is at the forefront of the library service. They are busy, lively places to work. Requiring flexibility, creativity, and initiative. This could mean helping someone with a reading recommendation, thinking up new themes for book displays, planning events or assisting people with information and virtual services. Maintaining, presenting, and processing book stock is also a major part of the role. The role may include leading craft events, Rhymetime and Storytime sessions, and assisting with other activities directed at both children and adults. From time to time there will be a need for lone working or single staffing at this and other libraries in the area. Shortlisting Criteria As part of the application process, you will be asked to upload your CV answer the following questions. Please highlight your strengths and any transferable skills or experience: What has motivated you to apply for the Surrey Library Service? (150 words) Can you please provide an example when you either provided, or received, excellent customer service? (150 words) Our libraries are a vital community resource. Describe an instance where you observed or contributed to a community service making a positive impact. (150 words) Can you name 3 things you would do to attract more people to our libraries and what skills you have to help with this? (150 words)If shortlisted for interview, you will be sent interview questions in advance and you will be asked to read a short story. The job advert closes at 23:59 on 31/08/2025 with interviews planned for the week beginning 15/09/2025. We look forward to receiving your application, please click on the apply online button below to submit. Local Government Reorganisation Surrey County Council is preparing for Local Government Reorganisation which will allow us to implement the Government led policy of devolution, which is all about giving more powers to local areas. Currently, Surrey has a two-tier council system, with 11 district and borough councils and a county council, all responsible for different services. All these councils will be reorganised into a smaller number of new unitary councils which will come into effect in April 2027. At this point, this role will be transferred, with all existing terms and conditions intact into one of the new unitary councils. Join our dynamic team and shape the future of local government. Make a lasting impact with innovative solutions and improved services for our community. Help us build a brighter future for our residents! Our Commitment Surrey County Council is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. A guaranteed interview will be offered to all disabled applicants where: The candidate has evidenced the minimum criteria for the role through their application The candidate has chosen to share that they have a disability on the application formOur application form and onboarding process will provide an opportunity to request any reasonable adjustments for the interview and/or the role. We want to be an inclusive and diverse employer reflecting the community we serve and particularly welcome applications from all underrepresented groups
Weekend Library Assistant - Horsley Library employer: Surrey County Council
Contact Detail:
Surrey County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Weekend Library Assistant - Horsley Library
β¨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the services offered by Surrey Libraries. Understanding their community role and the various activities they host will help you demonstrate your enthusiasm and knowledge during the interview.
β¨Tip Number 2
Think about your previous customer service experiences and prepare specific examples to share. Highlighting how you've positively impacted someone's experience can set you apart from other candidates.
β¨Tip Number 3
Consider creative ideas for attracting more visitors to the library. Whether it's themed events or partnerships with local schools, showcasing your initiative can impress the hiring team.
β¨Tip Number 4
Be ready to discuss your flexibility and adaptability. The role requires a positive attitude towards varied tasks, so sharing instances where you've successfully handled unexpected situations will be beneficial.
We think you need these skills to ace Weekend Library Assistant - Horsley Library
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the role of Weekend Library Assistant. Emphasise any customer service experience, teamwork, and creativity, as these are key aspects of the job.
Answer Application Questions Thoughtfully: When responding to the application questions, be concise but detailed. Use specific examples to illustrate your strengths and transferable skills. For instance, when discussing customer service, share a particular situation where you excelled.
Show Enthusiasm for the Role: In your motivation statement, express why you are excited about working at Surrey Libraries. Mention how you can contribute to the community and enhance the library experience for visitors.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial in a customer-facing role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Surrey County Council
β¨Show Your Enthusiasm
Make sure to express your passion for libraries and community service during the interview. Share specific reasons why you want to work at Surrey Libraries and how you can contribute to their vision of being community hubs.
β¨Prepare Customer Service Examples
Since customer service is a key part of the role, think of concrete examples from your past experiences where you provided excellent service. Be ready to discuss these scenarios in detail, highlighting your problem-solving skills and positive attitude.
β¨Demonstrate Flexibility and Creativity
The role requires flexibility and creativity, so come prepared with ideas on how to engage the community. Think about activities or events you could organise to attract more visitors to the library and be ready to share these ideas.
β¨Practice Reading Aloud
As part of the interview process, you'll need to read a short story. Practise reading aloud to ensure you feel comfortable and confident. Focus on your tone, pace, and expression to make the story engaging for listeners.