At a Glance
- Tasks: Support library operations and assist customers in a friendly, welcoming environment.
- Company: Join Wiltshire Council, a supportive and inclusive workplace.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, comprehensive training, and a positive work culture.
- Other info: Flexible working hours across multiple libraries with opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Promote a love of reading while gaining valuable experience in community service.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs including English and Maths; customer service experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 25989 - 26824 £ per year.
Salary: £25,989 - £26,824 pro rata
Hours per week: 15.25 hours
Interview date: Wednesday 1st July 2026
Are you passionate about supporting others, enthusiastic about books and reading and confident using IT? If so, we invite you to consider a rewarding opportunity to join our team at Royal Wootton Bassett, Cricklade and Purton Libraries. As a Community Library Assistant, your friendly and positive approach will play a key role in providing an excellent experience for our customers and volunteers.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Working independently to carry out computerised counter routines
- Completing administrative tasks that support the daily running of the library
- Assisting the Library Manager by working alongside and supporting our dedicated team of volunteers
To be considered for this role, you should have at least 5 GCSEs, including English and Maths at grades A–C (or equivalent). While customer service experience is essential, previous library experience is not required, as we provide comprehensive training in all aspects of library operations.
This post is based at Purton Library; however, as part of your regular working pattern, you will also be required to work at Royal Wootton Bassett and Cricklade Libraries.
Work pattern and location for this role is:
- Week One
- Tuesday 10am-1pm at Purton Library
- Thursday 10am – 1pm at Royal Wootton Bassett Library and 3pm – 7pm at Cricklade Library
- Friday 1.30pm – 5pm at Cricklade Library
- Saturday 9.30am – 1pm at Cricklade Library
- Week Two
- Tuesday 10am-1pm at Purton Library
- Thursday 10am – 1pm at Royal Wootton Bassett Library and 3pm – 7pm at Cricklade Library
- Friday 1.30pm – 5pm at Cricklade Library
Join our team in promoting a love of reading for pleasure within a warm and welcoming library environment.
Wiltshire Council is a friendly, welcoming place to work, with a 'One Council' ethos. Our hybrid working model means office staff are on site for at least half their hours, community-based staff carry out at least half their admin time in a workplace, and customer‑facing roles work entirely from their service location.
We are committed to creating a workplace where positive relationships thrive and everyone feels engaged, supported and able to do their best. We do not tolerate discrimination, bullying or harassment. Everyone is expected to promote a culture of inclusion, dignity, trust and respect, guided by our vision and Our Identity.
Contact details: Claire Lavender, Library Supervisor, at Claire.Lavender@wiltshire.gov.uk
Please ensure to regularly check your spam or junk folder for any communication from us regarding the status of your application.
Application criteria: Please download and read the role description and person specification carefully before you apply.
We understand that AI tools can support you in preparing job applications. However, we value authenticity and would encourage you to ensure your submission genuinely reflects your own experiences, skills, and motivations.
We are firmly committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and to the principles of inclusion and diversity in both employment and the delivery of services.
Disability Confident Employer
Application process: Wiltshire Council does not accept unsolicited CVs or candidate details from recruitment agencies that are not appointed under a current, valid contract or approved supplier arrangement. Submission of unsolicited CVs or candidate details to the Council, whether directly or to individual employees, will not be considered as an introduction and will not create any obligation on the Council to pay any fees.
If a candidate whose details have been submitted speculatively is subsequently appointed through a compliant route, no agency fee will be payable in respect of the unsolicited submission. Agencies wishing to work with the Council must do so only via our approved procurement processes and neutral vendor arrangements.
Community Library Assistant employer: Wiltshire
Wiltshire Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees can thrive. As a Community Library Assistant, you will benefit from comprehensive training, opportunities for personal growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in your community through promoting a love of reading. With a commitment to employee well-being and a 'One Council' ethos, working at Purton, Royal Wootton Bassett, and Cricklade Libraries provides a unique opportunity to engage with diverse communities in a warm and welcoming setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Community Library Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the libraries you're applying to! Visit Purton, Royal Wootton Bassett, and Cricklade Libraries if you can. Familiarising yourself with the environment and services will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for reading and community service! When chatting with interviewers, share your favourite books or how you've helped others in the past. This will demonstrate your enthusiasm and fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your customer service skills! Think of scenarios where you’ve provided excellent service or resolved issues. Being able to articulate these experiences will give you an edge in the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our friendly team at Wiltshire Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Community Library Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. It’s packed with info about what we’re looking for, so make sure you understand the role and how your skills fit in.
Show Your Passion:We love seeing enthusiasm! In your application, let us know why you’re passionate about supporting others and your love for books and reading. A personal touch can really make your application stand out.
Be Authentic:While it’s tempting to use AI tools for help, we want to hear your genuine voice. Make sure your application reflects your own experiences and motivations – that’s what we value most!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly and helps us keep track of everything. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wiltshire
✨Know Your Libraries
Familiarise yourself with the Royal Wootton Bassett, Cricklade, and Purton Libraries. Understand their services, community initiatives, and any recent events. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you connect with the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've provided excellent customer service. Highlight how you handled difficult situations or went above and beyond to assist someone. This is crucial for a Community Library Assistant role.
✨Emphasise Your IT Confidence
Since the role involves computerised counter routines, be ready to discuss your IT skills. Mention any relevant software you’ve used and express your willingness to learn new systems. This will reassure them of your capability to handle administrative tasks.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
As you'll be working alongside volunteers and supporting the Library Manager, share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in a team. Emphasise your friendly and positive approach, which aligns with the library's community-focused ethos.