Senior Library & Community Engagement Assistant (Hybrid)

Gateshead Council; Gateshead; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 29,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary £27,709-£29,071 pro rata

Pension Scheme

28 days annual leave rising to 32

Training & progression

Health & wellbeing resources

Cycle to Work

Car salary sacrifice

Discounts via benefits platform

Job summary

Gateshead Council’s Libraries and Heritage Service is recruiting a Senior Library Assistant on a fixed-term contract to 31 August 2028. The role is part-time (18.5 hours) with shifts Monday to Friday and some evenings, offering a chance to shape library services across Gateshead.

You’ll supervise staff, deliver events, support digital access and provide excellent customer care in welcoming community spaces. Interivews 2 Dec 2026.

Qualifications

• Passion for books, reading, arts, culture or heritage and inspiring others to engage with library services.
• GCSE English and Maths at Grade 4/C or above (or equivalent).
• Confidence using digital technology and IT systems to support customers.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for a wide range of customers.
• Collaborative approach with ability to work in a team and independently when needed.
• Experience in a library, community setting or customer-focused environment.
• Commitment to excellent customer service and inclusive spaces.
• Ability to remain calm and professional when dealing with challenging behaviour.

Responsibilities

• Deliver and facilitate promotional activities and events within libraries and with partners.
• Supervise Library Assistants and ensure effective use of the building.
• Engage with residents to promote reading and library services.
• Provide IT support and digital guidance for users.
• Signpost residents to housing, unemployment, debt/finance and health services.
• Ensure health and safety of the building and report concerns.
• Carry out clerical duties, stock development, cash handling and reconciliation.
• Support customers and handle challenging behaviour when required.

Skills

Passion for books

GCSE English & Maths

IT/digital skills

Communication skills

Team player

Library experience

Customer service

Education

No formal degree required

Tools

Digital IT systems

Job description

Gateshead Council’s Libraries and Heritage Service is recruiting a Senior Library Assistant on a fixed-term contract to 31 August 2028. The role is part-time (18.5 hours) with shifts Monday to Friday and some evenings, offering a chance to shape library services across Gateshead.

You’ll supervise staff, deliver events, support digital access and provide excellent customer care in welcoming community spaces. Interivews 2 Dec 2026.