Library & Information Assistant

Somerset County Council; Taunton; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 21,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

LGPS

Hybrid working

Leave purchase option

Volunteer opportunities

Job summary

Somerset County Council’s Chard Library is seeking a Library and Information Assistant to assist residents with services, promote reading, and help people use digital tools.

You will be part of a friendly team delivering community activities, welcoming spaces and inclusive services across Somerset’s library network.

Qualifications

• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Confidence using digital technology and supporting others to access online services and IT systems.
• Broad interest in books, information, learning and community services.
• Ability to work independently, use initiative and adapt to changing priorities.
• Commitment to inclusive service delivery and creating positive experiences for customers, volunteers and community groups.

Responsibilities

• Deliver excellent customer service, helping residents access library services, information and resources confidently.
• Support people to use digital tools, online services and library technology, building confidence and independence.
• Promote books, digital resources, activities and events that encourage learning, wellbeing and a love of reading.
• Help plan and deliver engaging community activities and library events for a wide range of audiences.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, volunteers and local partners to create welcoming, inclusive library spaces.

Skills

Customer service

Communication

Digital tools

IT systems

Job description

Salary: Grade 15 - £12.85 to £12.85 per hour

Contract: Permanent - Part Time

Hours: Saturday - 3 hours per week

Location: Chard Library

Closing Date: 27th September 2026

About the Role

Our Libraries Service sits at the heart of local communities, helping residents access information, learning, digital support and wellbeing services in welcoming and inclusive spaces.

As a Library and Information Assistant, you'll be the friendly face of the library, helping people access services, discover new resources and build confidence with technology. Working as part of a supportive team, you'll help create positive experiences for residents while promoting reading, learning and community involvement across Somerset.

How You'll Make a Difference

• Deliver excellent customer service, helping residents access library services, information and resources confidently.
• Support people to use digital tools, online services and library technology, building confidence and independence.
• Promote books, digital resources, activities and events that encourage learning, wellbeing and a love of reading.
• Help plan and deliver engaging community activities and library events for a wide range of audiences.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, volunteers and local partners to create welcoming, inclusive library spaces.

What You'll Bring

• Strong customer service and communication skills, with the ability to engage positively with a wide range of people.
• Confidence using digital technology and supporting others to access online services and IT systems.
• A broad interest in books, information, learning and community services.
• The ability to work independently, use your initiative and adapt to changing priorities.
• A commitment to inclusive service delivery and creating positive experiences for customers, volunteers and community groups.

Why Join Us?

At Somerset Council, we're a progressive organisation committed to improving lives and shaping better services for our communities. Based in one of England’s most beautiful counties, it’s a great place to build your career and enjoy an excellent quality of life.

• 25 days annual leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave.
• Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), one of the UK’s most enhanced and secure pension schemes.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance, where service needs allow.
• Health and wellbeing support, including access to confidential employee assistance services.
• Paid volunteering opportunities, helping you make a difference both inside and outside of work.

Find out more about working at Somerset Council:

https://www.somerset.gov.uk/jobs-and-careers/working-at-somerset-council/

Further Information

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role. We are only able to proceed with candidates who already have the right to work in the UK without the need for visa sponsorship.

For an informal chat about the role, you can contact Denise Brister, Library Supervisor at [e-mail]

We believe diversity makes us stronger and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences, whose unique perspectives help us better serve the people of Somerset.

You can find a copy of the job description here: AG0358 Library and Information Assistant