Senior Library Assistant (Access Services)

RFCSR; Oxford; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Magdalen College, University of Oxford, is seeking a Senior Library Assistant (Access Services) to support students, Fellows and researchers within the Library and Archives team.

You will contribute to day-to-day operations, reader services, shelving, and collection maintenance while supervising staff and ensuring an inclusive, academically supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Eligible candidates should have experience in a library, academic, or customer service setting.
• A good standard of education is expected, with administrative or service-focused experience.
• Academic library experience is desirable but not essential.

Responsibilities

• Ensure smooth day-to-day library operations within Access Services.
• Supervise library assistants and student staff where required.
• Assist users with accessing physical and digital resources and maintain records.

Skills

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Library systems

Teamwork

Digital resources management

Education

Good education standard

Tools

Library management software

Job description

Senior Library Assistant (Access Services)

Magdalen College, University of Oxford, is recruiting for a Senior Library Assistant within its Library and Archives team. This role is based in one of Oxford’s historic collegiate libraries and contributes to the delivery of high-quality library services supporting students, Fellows, and researchers across the College community.

The position involves working within Access Services, ensuring smooth day-to-day operation of the library, including circulation duties, reader support, shelving and collection maintenance, and assisting with enquiries. The postholder will also contribute to the supervision of library assistants and student staff, supporting the effective management of library spaces and services.

The role includes responsibility for supporting users in accessing physical and digital resources, maintaining accurate library records, and assisting with the implementation of library policies and procedures. The successful candidate will also help ensure a welcoming, inclusive, and academically supportive environment for all users of the library.

The position is situated within a collaborative academic support environment and plays a key role in enabling teaching, learning, and research activities at Magdalen College.

Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should have relevant experience working in a library, academic, or customer service environment. A good standard of education is expected, along with demonstrable experience in administrative or service-focused roles. Prior experience in an academic library setting is desirable but not essential.

Required expertise/skills
Candidates should have strong organisational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently. Good interpersonal and communication skills are essential for supporting a diverse user community. Experience with library systems, IT applications, and digital resource management is advantageous. The ability to work both independently and as part of a team is required, along with a proactive and service-oriented approach.

Salary details
£26,000 – £30,000 per annum (depending on experience), along with standard College benefits.

Application Deadline
Not explicitly specified in the source page.