At a Glance
- Tasks: Support library services, assist with user enquiries, and contribute to communications projects.
- Company: Join the University of Edinburgh, a world-class institution committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy 40 days annual leave, flexible working options, and a competitive salary.
- Other info: This traineeship is aimed at underrepresented individuals in the library profession.
- Why this job: Gain authentic experience in a dynamic academic library and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills, IT proficiency, and a proactive approach are essential.
The predicted salary is between 26093 - 28778 £ per year.
Information Services Group / Library & University Collections / Library Academic Support Team.
Full Time - 35 hours per week. Fixed Term Contract - from 1 August 2026 to 31 July 2027.
The Opportunity: Unlocking your career. Be part of something bigger. Here, you can continue to make a difference in everything around you. Take on new challenges, grow your career, be recognised for your contributions, and benefit from our commitment to your wellbeing. The University of Edinburgh is offering a traineeship aimed at those interested in pursuing a career in the information and library profession and have a strong desire to learn. This 12-month fixed term traineeship is an excellent opportunity for aspiring library professionals to join a friendly and welcoming Library team and aims to provide an individual with the experience required to undertake a postgraduate qualification in library or information studies.
The traineeship is full-time (35hrs per week) but we will consider requests for part-time working. The working pattern will allow some hybrid working, with the individual required to work in person on-campus in Edinburgh for particular assignments. While it is a broad-ranging traineeship that will give the individual knowledge and experience of various aspects of service provision, there will be a focus on library services for medicine.
What the job involves:
- Providing support for information skills development activities, such as assisting with inductions and teaching sessions, reviewing materials, and analysing feedback for quality improvement.
- Assisting with communications projects, including working with the Social Media team.
- Assisting with user enquiries received at in-person service points or via our online enquiry management systems.
- Contributing to the development of services in collaboration with colleagues, to improve our users’ experience of the library.
A bit about you:
- Have not already participated in a graduate library traineeship programme.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with an ability to sustain effective working relationships with diverse colleagues, partners and clients.
- Proven ability to be able to work independently as well as in a team.
- Good IT skills including familiarity with Microsoft Office and web technologies.
- An accurate and methodical approach to work.
- Good organisational skills, with the ability to be flexible and to deal with problems as they arise.
- Proven ability to be proactive and show initiative.
- From an ethnic minority background.
People have always been at the heart of our work. Our people are at the centre of the University community and everything we do. We value colleagues with drive, determination and a passion for what they do. A career with us has a range of other benefits that can be tailored to your lifestyle:
- A chance to gain authentic experience of academic library work, and make a clear contribution to delivery of library services.
- Generous annual leave allowance of 40 days per year (inclusive of festive closure days).
- A range of flexible working options to help prioritise work/life balance.
How to apply: Please include the following documents in your application:
- CV
- Cover letter
As a valued member of our team, you can expect:
- A competitive salary.
- An exciting, positive, creative, challenging and rewarding place to work.
- To be part of a diverse and vibrant international community.
- Comprehensive Staff Benefits, including generous annual leave entitlement, a defined benefits pension scheme, a wide range of staff discounts, family-friendly initiatives, and flexible work options.
Championing equality, diversity, and inclusion: The University of Edinburgh holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates and particularly encourage applications from ethnic minority candidates, as we acknowledge they are currently underrepresented in the library and information science profession.
Key dates to note: The closing date for applications is 12 June 2026. Interviews will be held in-person during week commencing 15 June 2026.
Graduate Library Trainee employer: University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive environment for aspiring library professionals. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, generous annual leave, and flexible working options, you will have the opportunity to grow your career while making a meaningful impact in a diverse academic community. Join us in Edinburgh, where your contributions are valued and your professional development is a priority.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Library Trainee
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current library professionals on LinkedIn or at events. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing a traineeship. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions. Think about how your skills align with the role, especially in areas like communication and teamwork. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for libraries! When you get the chance to chat with interviewers, share why you’re excited about this traineeship and how you can contribute to the team. Authentic enthusiasm can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the amazing benefits we offer. Let’s get you started on this exciting journey!
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Library Trainee
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your passion for library services and how your skills align with the role. Keep it personal and engaging, showing us why you’re the perfect fit for our team.
Tailor Your CV:Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to reflect the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the Graduate Library Trainee position. We want to see how your background makes you a great candidate for this specific role.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since strong written and verbal communication skills are key for this role, make sure your application reflects that. Use clear language, proper formatting, and check for any typos or errors before hitting send!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right place. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Edinburgh
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you research the University of Edinburgh and its library services. Familiarise yourself with their mission, values, and any recent projects or initiatives. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and show that you're ready to contribute.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare specific examples that highlight your strong communication skills and ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Think about times when you've successfully handled user enquiries or contributed to a project, especially in a library or academic setting.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the traineeship, the team you'll be working with, and the library's future plans. This shows that you're not just interested in the position but also in how you can grow and contribute to the organisation.
✨Be Yourself
The University values diversity and inclusion, so don’t hesitate to bring your authentic self to the interview. Share your unique perspective and experiences, especially if you come from an underrepresented background. This will help you connect with the interviewers and stand out as a candidate.
