About Company
Are you eager to begin a rewarding journey in public service? Career.supersecrets champions opportunities for everyone, believing that talent thrives with the right support and environment. We partner with organisations across Hackney to connect individuals with roles that make a real difference. For an aspiring Library Assistant, this means an unparalleled chance to contribute to community learning, engage with diverse patrons, and develop invaluable skills in a supportive, inclusive setting right here in London. We celebrate curiosity and dedication, offering a launchpad for meaningful careers in community-focused roles.
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Job Description
Are you passionate about books, community, and lifelong learning? Career.supersecrets is excited to partner with a cherished local institution in Hackney to find an enthusiastic and dedicated Part-Time Library Assistant. This is an exceptional entry-level opportunity for individuals looking to embark on a career in library services, even without prior experience. We believe in nurturing potential, and this role is perfectly designed for someone eager to learn, grow, and contribute to the vibrant intellectual life of our community.
As a Library Assistant, you’ll be at the heart of our operations, ensuring that the library remains a welcoming, organised, and invaluable resource for all residents. You’ll assist patrons with inquiries, manage collections, and support various library programmes, making a tangible impact on literacy and knowledge sharing in Hackney. This position offers a fantastic chance to develop essential customer service skills, learn library management systems, and engage with a diverse cross-section of Londoners, all within a supportive and encouraging environment.
This role is more than just shelving books; it’s about fostering a love for reading, providing access to information, and creating a community hub where everyone feels welcome. You will be instrumental in the smooth running of daily library operations, directly contributing to the positive experience of every visitor. If you possess a friendly demeanour, a keen eye for detail, excellent communication skills, and a genuine desire to help others, we encourage you to apply and become a vital part of our local library’s story.
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Key Responsibilities
- Assist library users with general inquiries, locating materials, and effectively utilising library resources.
- Process new books, periodicals, and other media, including accurate cataloguing, labelling, and shelving of items.
- Maintain the organisation, cleanliness, and tidiness of library shelves, reading areas, and display zones.
- Support the circulation desk operations, including checking books and other materials in and out, processing reservations, and handling renewals efficiently.
- Assist with the setup, promotion, and smooth running of library events, workshops, and reading groups for various age groups and community interests.
- Provide basic IT support to patrons using public computers, Wi-Fi, printing, and scanning facilities.
- Handle cash transactions for fines or printing services, ensuring accurate record-keeping and reconciliation.
- Contribute proactively to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment for all library visitors.
- Perform essential administrative tasks such as answering phones, responding to emails, filing documents, and managing correspondence.
- Report any issues concerning library equipment, facilities, or difficult patron situations to senior staff promptly and professionally.
- Help promote library services, new acquisitions, and upcoming programmes to the local community through various channels.
Required Skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a friendly and approachable manner.
- A genuine desire to help and serve the public, demonstrating patience and empathy.
- Ability to learn quickly and adapt to new procedures, systems, and technologies.
- Strong organisational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
- Reliable and punctual, with a strong work ethic and commitment to teamwork.
- Basic computer literacy, including proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, email, and internet browsing.
Preferred Qualifications
- Familiarity with the Hackney area and its diverse communities.
- A demonstrable passion for books, reading, and lifelong learning.
- Previous experience in a customer service-oriented environment (paid or voluntary).
- Ability to speak additional languages commonly used in Hackney (e.g., Turkish, Bengali, Yiddish).
- Eagerness to learn and engage with library-specific software and cataloguing systems.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive part-time salary.
- Opportunity for continuous professional development and training in library services.
- A friendly, engaging, and supportive team environment.
- The chance to make a tangible contribution to a vital community service.
- Flexible working hours to accommodate personal commitments (within library operating times).
- Access to extensive library resources and a wealth of knowledge.
- Pension scheme enrolment.
How to Apply
Ready to turn your passion for community and learning into a rewarding role? We encourage all interested candidates, regardless of prior experience, to apply. Please click on the application link below to submit your interest. We look forward to hearing from you!
