Community Library Manager

Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council; Olton; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous annual leave

Flexitime scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Local Government Pension Scheme

Staff discounts

Job summary

Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council is seeking a Community Library Manager to lead the delivery of library services across Hobs Moat and Olton Libraries. You will manage staff, develop partnerships and deliver community initiatives that connect people with information, learning and digital services.

Based at two busy libraries, the post requires strong leadership, a customer-focused approach and the ability to work with partners to continually improve the library offer and access for local

Qualifications

• Experience in busy customer-facing environments.
• Experience leading, motivating and developing staff.
• Excellent IT skills including MS Office applications.

Responsibilities

• Lead, motivate and develop library staff to deliver excellent customer service.
• Manage customer enquiries, complaints and escalated issues professionally and effectively.
• Plan and deliver engaging events, activities and community initiatives.
• Build partnerships with organisations and community groups to maximise local impact.
• Monitor library performance and use data to inform service improvements.
• Oversee library buildings, facilities and physical assets, ensuring they remain safe, accessible and welcoming.
• Support the implementation of new technologies and innovative ways of delivering services.

Skills

Leadership

Customer service

People management

Communication

Stakeholder management

Problem solving

IT skills

Education

NVQ/ILM Level 4+

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Do you have a passion for delivering excellent customer service and creating welcoming community spaces? Are you an inspiring leader who can motivate teams, build strong partnerships, and make a real difference to local residents? Solihull Council is seeking an enthusiastic and customer-focused Community Library Manager to lead the delivery of library services across Hobs Moat and Olton Libraries. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in supporting vibrant community hubs that provide far more than books, helping residents access information, learning opportunities, digital services, and community activities. About the Role As Community Library Manager, you will lead a dedicated team to deliver a high-quality, inclusive and customer-focused library service. You will ensure the smooth day-to-day operation of two busy libraries while working collaboratively with partners, stakeholders, and local communities to continually develop and enhance the library offer. You will:

• Lead, motivate and develop library staff to deliver excellent customer service.
• Manage customer enquiries, complaints and escalated issues professionally and effectively.
• Plan and deliver engaging events, activities and community initiatives.
• Build partnerships with organisations and community groups to maximise local impact.
• Monitor library performance and use data to inform service improvements.
• Oversee library buildings, facilities and physical assets, ensuring they remain safe, accessible and welcoming.
• Support the implementation of new technologies and innovative ways of delivering services.
  We are looking for someone who combines strong leadership skills with a genuine commitment to serving their community., A qualification in Customer Service or Leadership (NVQ/ILM Level 4 or above), or equivalent relevant experience.
• Experience working in a busy customer-facing environment.
• Experience leading, motivating and developing staff.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• The ability to manage competing priorities and work effectively under pressure.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Experience building positive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
• The ability to engage with diverse communities and adapt services to meet local needs.
• Good IT skills, including experience using Microsoft Office applications., This post is covered by the Fluency Duty, as outlined in the Code of Practice on the English language requirements for public sector workers.
  At Solihull Council, we are committed to creating communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Our libraries are at the heart of local communities, providing welcoming spaces that connect people, promote learning, and support wellbeing. Working for Solihull we also offer: Generous annual leave entitlements with the opportunity to purchase up to 10-days additional leave per year
• A flexitime scheme
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme - a 24-hour independent, free and confidential advice and support service
• Family and carer friendly policies
• Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme
• Employee benefits including staff discounts, subsidised travel passes and Cycle 2 Work Scheme., This role involves working alternate Saturdays on a rota basis. While based at Hobs Moat and Olton Libraries, you may occasionally be required to work from other library locations across the borough to support service delivery.
• An Enhanced DBS check for working with children is required for this post