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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage visitors and manage library collections at the Science Museum.
- Company: Join a leading organisation with 7 million items in its archives and libraries.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, 27 days leave, health insurance, and discounts.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team inspiring futures through science and culture.
- Qualifications: Ideal for recent graduates or those with library experience; creativity is key.
- Other info: Open to diverse applicants; we value transferable skills.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Overview
Are you passionate about connecting people with world-class collections and making archives and rare books accessible to all?
About us
With around 7 million items, our rich archive and library collections are of outstanding significance both nationally and internationally. This is an exciting time for SMG\’s Archives and Libraries with our new strategy setting out how our collections will be the best in the world in our fields: well-understood, well-housed and accessible (physically and digitally) and used effectively by us and others for research, display, learning and pleasure.
The Dana Research Centre and Library provides open access to around 7,000 books and periodicals covering the history and biography of science, technology, and medicine, as well as providing access to the Science Museum\’s rich collections of archives and rare books, stored at SMG\’s National Collections Centre at Wroughton, near Swindon.
To support our amazing space, we are looking for a Science Museum Librarian based at the Dana Research Centre and Library on a permanent basis. This is a part time opportunity for 28 hours a week, typically Monday to Thursday from 9am until 5pm, although some flexibility will be required depending on library capacity.
Responsibilities
- Be the face of the library, proactively finding innovative ways to attract visitors.
- Work closely with the Collections, Research, and Public History teams to support the Science Museum\’s priorities and ensure the intellectual care and development of the collection.
- Provide physical access to library materials and archives, and collaborate with Archive and Library colleagues across SMG to maintain high standards of customer service and meet KPIs.
- Engage with diverse audiences for books and archives.
- Lead and develop a programme of tours and inductions for colleagues and the public.
- Deliver access to the library and archives through a friendly and welcoming reading room experience to build relationships with internal and external users in line with our values.
About you / Qualifications
- Experience in a research or collections library; recent graduates or those developing their library career are encouraged to apply.
- Ideas-driven with interest in the bigger picture and creative engagement to drive visits to the library.
- Experience supervising volunteers or team members, ideally in a library, archive, or cultural setting.
- Enthusiasm for working with science, technology, engineering, and medicine (STEM) collections.
- Understanding of handling and invigilation requirements for rare books and archives, with strong customer service and a friendly, professional manner.
- We welcome applicants who may not meet every criterion but bring transferable skills.
Applying
View the Vacancy Information Pack listed under \’Attachments\’ on the vacancy listing on our website for more details about the role and the application process or click \”Apply Online\” to submit an application.
What we offer
- Meaningful work as part of a mission-led organisation focused on Inspiring Futures.
- Career growth with enhanced support for personal and professional development.
- Work/life balance with 27 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays and flexible policies.
- Health & Dental Insurance from day one.
- Access to an employee assistance programme, Unmind app, and wellbeing support.
- Colleague networks for discussion, best practice, socialising and community.
- Enhanced contributory pension and, where needed, interest-free loans for life events or home improvements.
- Discounts including free entry to exhibitions, discounts in shops and cafes, and access to NMDC network museums.
Open for All is one of the Science Museum Group\’s five core values and sets out our aspiration to be a place for everyone. We aim to understand and value diverse backgrounds, mindsets, skills, experience, knowledge and expertise to Inspire Futures.
National Museum Directors\’ Council, Tate Britain, Millbank, London SW1P 4RG.
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Science Museum Librarian employer: www.nationalmuseums.org.uk - Jobboard
Contact Detail:
www.nationalmuseums.org.uk - Jobboard Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Science Museum Librarian
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Science Museum's collections and current exhibitions. Understanding their focus areas will help you engage effectively with visitors and demonstrate your passion for the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the library and museum sectors. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with others who share your interests, which can lead to valuable insights and potential referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your creativity by thinking of innovative ways to attract visitors to the library. Prepare a few ideas to discuss during your interview, demonstrating your proactive approach and enthusiasm for engaging diverse audiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Gain experience in customer service roles, especially in cultural settings. Highlight any relevant volunteer work or internships that showcase your ability to interact positively with the public, as this is crucial for the librarian position.
We think you need these skills to ace Science Museum Librarian
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and qualifications required for the Science Museum Librarian position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for libraries and archives, particularly in the context of science, technology, engineering, and medicine. Use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate your ideas-driven approach and customer service skills.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise any previous experience in research or collections libraries, as well as any roles where you supervised volunteers or team members. Mention any creative initiatives you've led to engage visitors or enhance library services.
Showcase Your Enthusiasm: Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for working with diverse audiences and your commitment to making archives and rare books accessible. This can be reflected in both your cover letter and CV, demonstrating your alignment with the museum's values.
How to prepare for a job interview at www.nationalmuseums.org.uk - Jobboard
✨Show Your Passion for Collections
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for connecting people with archives and rare books. Share any personal experiences or projects that highlight your passion for science, technology, and medicine collections.
✨Demonstrate Customer Service Skills
Since the role involves engaging with diverse audiences, be prepared to discuss your previous customer service experiences. Highlight how you’ve created welcoming environments in past roles, especially in library or cultural settings.
✨Prepare for Team Collaboration
The position requires working closely with various teams. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in a professional setting, particularly in libraries or archives.
✨Discuss Innovative Ideas
Think about creative ways to attract visitors to the library. Prepare to share your ideas during the interview, as this shows your proactive approach and understanding of the bigger picture in promoting library services.
