At a Glance
- Tasks: Support legal research and assist students in a dynamic library environment.
- Company: Join the University of London, a leader in global education and research.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop skills, and enjoy a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Full-time, 12-month FTC with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a difference in students' lives while working with renowned legal resources.
- Qualifications: Library qualification or relevant experience; strong communication and IT skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
The University of London is both the UK’s largest provider of international distance and online learning and the convenor of a federation of 17 renowned higher education institutions. The University is also home to the School of Advanced Study, which has a national role in championing research, teaching and public engagement in the humanities and social sciences. Through its institutes, libraries, special collections and archives, and the University of London Press, it fosters communities of researchers, scholars and practitioners who are change-makers and committed to making a difference in people’s lives.
The School's mission is to be a powerful agent of and for change across disciplines and borders, nurturing research, scholarship, and practice that are innovative, inclusive and impactful. Its vision is of a world where knowledge and understanding, rooted in the humanities and social sciences and enriched by related disciplines, enable people and societies to flourish.
Since 1858, the University of London has expanded access to world-class higher education. Today, around 40,000 students in more than 190 countries are part of our global learning community. Across the wider federation, more than 250,000 learners and 50,000 staff collaborate to deliver high-quality research and education across all disciplines. By working together across the federation, we extend the benefits of outstanding education, research and resources to learners and researchers across the UK and around the world.
The Institute of Advanced Legal Studies Library has a central role in legal research provision in the UK and houses collections of national and international importance. The Library serves academic and professional lawyers and postgraduate law students in the UK and internationally.
A dynamic senior library assistant is required to work as part of the Academic Services department. This friendly team is dedicated to supporting and promoting use of the legal research facilities of the Institute Library. The post is vital to the day to day running of the team, managing inter-library loans and enquiry desk services, assisting the Academic Services manager with commercial services, being the first point of contact for students with special needs, and participating in the work of the academic services team by producing subject guides and delivering library training sessions.
The successful candidate will also work on the busy issue/enquiry and reference desks. It offers an excellent opportunity for a graduate with a library qualification or substantial background in libraries to gain experience of student facing services and supervising a member of staff, and to develop their skills in enquiry work. An effective team worker is required with good communication and IT skills and the ability to pay attention to detail and to work accurately. Some knowledge of legal materials and a European language is desirable but not essential.
The post is a Full-Time, 12-month FTC, and will start as soon as possible.
To be considered for this opportunity, please submit your application form before the closing date at midnight on Wednesday the 27th of May 2026. If you are interested in pursuing this as a secondment opportunity, you must discuss this with your current line manager before submitting an application. The University reserves the right to close the vacancy earlier than the published end date should it receive sufficient applications to warrant earlier shortlisting. Preferential consideration will be given to the University redeployment pool.
The University of London is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive working environment where we can all be ourselves and succeed. We particularly encourage applications from members of Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic communities as this group is currently under-represented in senior levels within the University. All appointments will be made on merit, based on the criteria identified in the job description.
Pursuing excellence in education and equal opportunities.
Principal Library Assistant: Academic Services (12-month FTC) employer: University of London
The University of London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that champions diversity and innovation. With a commitment to employee growth, staff have access to professional development opportunities and the chance to engage with a global community of scholars and researchers. Located in the heart of London, the University provides a dynamic environment where you can contribute to meaningful educational initiatives and make a real impact in the field of legal research.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Library Assistant: Academic Services (12-month FTC)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of London on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Institute of Advanced Legal Studies Library. Knowing their collections and services will show us your genuine interest and commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions with a friend or in front of a mirror. This will help us articulate your experience and skills confidently, especially those related to student-facing services.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Library Assistant: Academic Services (12-month FTC)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Principal Library Assistant. We want to see how you can contribute to our mission of supporting legal research and academic services.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves a lot of interaction with students and staff, it's crucial to demonstrate your communication abilities. Use clear and concise language in your application to reflect your capability in this area.
Highlight Relevant Experience:If you've got experience in library services or working with students, make it shine! We love seeing how your background can enhance our team and support our diverse community of learners.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website by clicking ‘apply for job’. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling on your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of London
✨Know Your Library Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of library services, especially those related to legal research. Familiarise yourself with the types of resources available at the Institute of Advanced Legal Studies Library and be ready to discuss how you can support students and staff in using these resources effectively.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This role is all about teamwork, so be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous positions. Highlight your communication skills and any experience you have in training or supporting colleagues, as this will demonstrate your ability to fit into their friendly team.
✨Prepare for Student Interaction
Since you'll be the first point of contact for students, think about how you would handle various enquiries, especially from those with special needs. Prepare some scenarios or questions that might come up during the interview, and practice your responses to show you're ready to provide excellent service.
✨Emphasise Attention to Detail
In a library setting, accuracy is key. Be ready to discuss how you ensure attention to detail in your work, whether it's managing inter-library loans or producing subject guides. Providing specific examples of how you've maintained high standards in your previous roles will help you stand out.
