At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide top-notch reference services to library users, both in-person and online.
- Company: Join the UK's national library and be part of a vibrant team.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, flexible working, and a solid pension scheme.
- Other info: Great opportunity for personal growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in library and information work with hands-on experience.
- Qualifications: Customer service experience and music knowledge are key; degree-level education preferred.
The predicted salary is between 31244 - 31244 £ per year.
Location: St Pancras
Contract: Fixed Term for 6 months
Hours: Full time (36 hours)
Grade: C
Salary: £31,244 per annum starting salary unless higher salary evidence reviewed.
About the role
We are seeking to recruit a 6‑month fixed‑term Reference Specialist in the Rare Books & Music Reference Team. You will deliver an excellent customer‑focused reference and information service to the Library’s on‑site and remote users. The majority of your time will be spent in our St Pancras Reading Rooms, undertaking enquiry work, both in person and remotely, delivering workshops and 1:1s for Readers, and contributing to Reference Services’ wider aims. This is an ideal early‑career opportunity for someone looking to develop into a profession in library and information work, in the UK’s national library.
Responsibilities
- Deliver reference and information services to on‑site and remote users.
- Undertake enquiry work in person and remotely.
- Deliver workshops and 1:1 sessions for Readers.
- Consult with internal and external stakeholders to support Library services.
- Contribute to the development of information and digital literacy using relevant tools.
Qualifications
- Experience in a customer‑facing environment providing proactive customer service.
- Ability to read music and knowledge of music reference sources.
- Excellent IT skills.
- Proven teamwork, prioritisation and deadline delivery skills.
- Degree‑level qualification; a recognised library qualification is desirable.
Benefits
- 25 days holiday plus 2.5 privilege days.
- Access to a defined benefit Civil Service pension scheme.
- Flexible working arrangements, including flexi‑time.
Things you need to know
- No sponsorship available under the UK Skilled Worker visa.
- Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check (DBS check).
- Artificial intelligence may be used in the application, but all examples must be truthful and original; plagiarism may lead to withdrawal.
- We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian, Mixed Race and other ethnically diverse candidates and disabled candidates.
Closing at 23:59 on Sunday 14 June 2026
If you have any questions, please contact BL-recruitment@bl.uk
Reference Specialist Rare Books & Music employer: The British Library
The British Library is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that values diversity and inclusion while providing meaningful opportunities for professional growth in the field of library and information services. Located in the iconic St Pancras, employees benefit from flexible working arrangements, generous holiday allowances, and access to a defined benefit pension scheme, making it an ideal place for those looking to build a rewarding career in a prestigious national institution.
