At a Glance
- Tasks: Curate and manage modern archives, focusing on historical manuscripts from the 17th and 18th centuries.
- Company: Join the British Library, the national library of the UK, with a rich history.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, flexible working, and a Civil Service pension scheme.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace welcoming diverse candidates; excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make an impact by promoting valuable collections to diverse audiences.
- Qualifications: Experience with manuscripts, strong IT skills, and teamwork abilities required.
The predicted salary is between 35993 - 35993 £ per year.
Location: St Pancras
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full time (36 hours)
Grade: B
Salary: £35,993 per annum
This is the starting salary for this role, unless the successful candidate is able to evidence being in receipt of a higher salary, in which case this may be reviewed.
About the role
The British Library is seeking to recruit a Curator to join the Modern Archives and Manuscripts section at St Pancras on a permanent basis. The Modern Archives and Manuscripts section is responsible for the Western Manuscript collections 1601-1950, including major holdings of historical, political, literary, theatrical and scientific papers.
The post holder will work across the chronological range of the collection, but with a focus on the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. The post will contribute to the full range of curatorial work on this collection. Tasks will include acquisitions work, cataloguing and collection management activities. The post holder will also contribute to public and academic engagement programmes and provide support for digitisation projects, exhibitions and learning programmes.
We are looking for candidates with experience of working with manuscripts and archives in a professional context, including cataloguing, collection management and work to promote the collection to academic and public audiences. The ability to work effectively as part of a team and to manage competing demands on your time are vital. Good IT skills are essential, as is a good knowledge of relevant standards and digital formats and experience of managing digital projects and/or collections.
About us
We are the national library of the UK and we are here for everyone. Our shelves hold over 170 million items – a living collection that gets bigger every day. Although our roots extend back centuries, we aim to collect everything published in the UK today, tomorrow and far into the future. Our trusted experts care for this collection and open it up for everyone to spark new discoveries, ideas and to help people do incredible things.
What we can offer you
- 25 days’ holiday plus 2.5 privilege days.
- Access to a defined benefit Civil Service pension scheme.
- Flexible working arrangements, including flexi-time.
Full details of employee benefits can be found on our Careers: Benefits page.
Things you need to know
- We are unable to provide sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker visa for this role.
- Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check (DBS check).
- Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn.
- We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian, Mixed Race and other ethnically diverse candidates and disabled candidates. Creating an inclusive workplace is the core of our business and a way to engage the diversity of thought that is essential to achieve our aims.
Closing date: 23:59 on 14 June 2026
If you have any questions, please contact: BL-recruitment@bl.uk
Curator Modern Archives and Manuscripts employer: The British Library
The British Library, located in St Pancras, is an exceptional employer that offers a vibrant work culture centred around inclusivity and collaboration. With a commitment to employee growth, the library provides access to a defined benefit pension scheme, flexible working arrangements, and generous holiday allowances, making it an ideal place for those passionate about curation and public engagement. Join us to be part of a living collection that inspires discovery and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Curator Modern Archives and Manuscripts
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the British Library inside out! Familiarise yourself with their Modern Archives and Manuscripts section. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips and maybe even put in a good word for you. Plus, it’s a great way to learn more about the culture at the library.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky interview questions! Think about your experience with manuscripts and archives, and be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on. We want to hear about your passion and expertise!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at the British Library.
We think you need these skills to ace Curator Modern Archives and Manuscripts
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Curator Modern Archives and Manuscripts role. Highlight your experience with manuscripts and archives, and show us how your skills align with what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for curation and archival work shine through in your application. Share specific examples of projects or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to preserving and promoting collections.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon, so we can easily see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your materials and can consider you for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at The British Library
✨Know Your Manuscripts
Before the interview, dive deep into the specifics of the Modern Archives and Manuscripts collection. Familiarise yourself with key pieces from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, as well as any recent acquisitions. This will not only show your passion but also your preparedness to engage with the collection.
✨Showcase Your IT Skills
Since good IT skills are essential for this role, be ready to discuss your experience with digital formats and managing digital projects. Bring examples of how you've used technology in previous roles, especially in cataloguing or collection management, to demonstrate your capability.
✨Engagement is Key
Think about how you can promote the collection to both academic and public audiences. Prepare ideas on potential engagement programmes or exhibitions you could contribute to. This shows that you're not just a curator but also someone who can connect with diverse audiences.
✨Teamwork Matters
The ability to work effectively as part of a team is vital for this position. Be prepared to share examples of how you've collaborated with others in past roles, especially in high-pressure situations. Highlight your time management skills and how you handle competing demands.
