At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and innovate library services to enhance student learning and support academic success.
- Company: Join the University of Greater Manchester, a student-focused institution committed to excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holidays, a pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of library services in a dynamic higher education environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Library Science or equivalent experience; strong leadership and management skills required.
- Other info: Interviews scheduled for the week of 7th July 2025.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Shape the Future of Library Services in a Student-Centered University. At the University of Greater Manchester, we are proud of our growing reputation as a student-focused institution, underpinned by our vision of Teaching Intensive, Research Informed, Assessment Enabled Learning. As part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing the student experience, we are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Library Manager to join our Student Services & Experience Directorate.
This is a pivotal leadership role within our professional services team, responsible for both the strategic direction and operational delivery of library services. You will lead a dedicated team, drive service innovation, and ensure our library provision meets the evolving needs of students and staff across teaching, learning, and research.
As Library Manager, you will:
- Lead the strategic planning and operational management of the university's library services
- Ensure services are inclusive, forward-looking, and aligned with institutional goals
- Provide effective leadership and support to library teams across both digital and physical environments
- Build and maintain strong relationships with academic departments to align services with teaching and research priorities
- Oversee collection development, academic skills support, and service quality assurance
- Manage library budgets, resources, and performance reporting
- Represent the university in internal committees and external professional networks
This role also plays a central part in coordinating academic liaison and skills provision, enhancing student learning and supporting the broader academic mission of the university.
We’re looking for a proactive, strategic leader who is passionate about the role libraries play in academic success. You’ll combine a clear vision with a practical, solutions-focused approach, and be ready to lead change in a dynamic higher education environment.
You will bring:
- A degree or postgraduate qualification in Library and Information Science (or equivalent experience)
- Substantial experience in library management, preferably within Higher Education
- Strong team leadership and development skills
- In-depth knowledge of library systems, digital services, and user experience delivery
- Proven ability to manage budgets, resources, and service improvement initiatives
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills
- Experience of working in a fast-paced academic setting and leading through change (desirable)
Why Join Us? This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of library services at a progressive and ambitious university. In return, we offer:
- A supportive and collaborative working environment, providing opportunities to work closely with colleagues across the University to help deliver the best possible student experience.
- Opportunities for professional development and leadership growth
- A comprehensive benefits package including generous holiday entitlement, access to the Local Government Pension Scheme and an employee benefits programme.
We envisage interviews taking place the week commencing the 7th July 2025.
Library Manager employer: University of Bolton
Contact Detail:
University of Bolton Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Library Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in library services, especially those that enhance student engagement. Being able to discuss innovative ideas during your interview will show that you're forward-thinking and aligned with our vision.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current library professionals or attend relevant conferences to gain insights into effective library management practices. This can provide you with valuable talking points and demonstrate your commitment to professional development.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing budgets and resources effectively. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've improved service delivery or implemented successful initiatives in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight your interpersonal and communication skills by preparing to discuss how you've built relationships with academic departments in the past. Show us how you can align library services with teaching and research priorities.
We think you need these skills to ace Library Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the key responsibilities and qualifications required for the Library Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Craft a Compelling CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your relevant experience in library management, leadership skills, and any specific achievements in higher education. Use bullet points for clarity and impact.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your passion for library services and your vision for their future. Address how you can contribute to the university's goals and enhance the student experience, using specific examples from your past roles.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Bolton
✨Show Your Passion for Libraries
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the role libraries play in academic success. Share specific examples of how you've contributed to enhancing library services in previous roles, and demonstrate your commitment to student-centred approaches.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
As a Library Manager, you'll need strong leadership skills. Be prepared to discuss your experience in leading teams, managing change, and driving service innovation. Use concrete examples to illustrate how you've successfully led teams in a fast-paced academic environment.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
The role requires strategic planning and operational management. Prepare to discuss your approach to aligning library services with institutional goals and how you've previously developed strategies that have positively impacted library services.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Building relationships with academic departments is crucial. Be ready to talk about your experience in stakeholder engagement and how you've collaborated with various departments to enhance library services and support teaching and research priorities.