Term-Time Mobile Library Coordinator & Storyteller

West Sussex County Council; Chichester; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 21,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Local government pension

Term Time Only contract

Flexible working options

Volunteering opportunities

Training and development opportunities

West Sussex Choices discounts

Health and Wellbeing benefits

Job summary

West Sussex County Council is seeking a Bookbus Coordinator to deliver Storytime sessions and provide an outstanding library experience for preschool children and families. Based in Chichester, the role is term-time and 30 hours per week, with the Bookbus responsible for lending, stock and a welcoming environment.

The post requires a full clean driving licence, CPC is desirable, and you will join the Families and Wellbeing team to support visits across local settings, promoting reading and

Qualifications

• 4 GCSEs with 9-4/A-C passes including Maths and English, or equivalent qualification/experience.
• NVQ Level 3 in childcare, play work, family support or related area, or equivalent experience of working with families/children.
• Full clean driving licence with C1 category.
• Evidence of working with children and young people through previous work experience.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a wide range of people across the community, including young children.
• Proven experience of planning, organising, and delivering work programmes to achieve agreed objectives and service outcomes.
• Strong analytical skills to identify and prioritise target community groups, develop strategies to promote reading and library use, and measure success against agreed targets.
• Knowledge and understanding of children's and young people's needs, and how to apply this in a practical service delivery environment.
• Experience of developing practical and sustainable service improvements based on identified community needs.

Responsibilities

• Deliver engaging story sessions for children under five, both in small groups and one-to-one, while promoting best practice in shared reading to parents, carers, and early years practitioners.
• Select, manage, and maintain a varied collection of books and resources, ensuring the Bookbus and childcare settings are stocked with high-quality, age-appropriate materials.
• Provide advice, guidance, and support to customers, acting as a first point of contact and signposting to relevant services where appropriate.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across the Families and Wellbeing team to respond to enquiries and support service delivery.
• Take responsibility for the daily operation of the Bookbus, including vehicle checks, record keeping, and compliance with legal and operational requirements.
• Safely drive and position the Bookbus at visiting settings, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for children, staff, and visitors.
• Help identify and respond to the needs of children and families in local communities, contributing to the planning of visit schedules and service delivery to maximise impact and accessibility.

Skills

Excellent communication

Strong analytical skills

Planning and organising

Experience with children and families

Education

GCSEs including Maths and English

NVQ Level 3 in childcare or related area

Job description

West Sussex County Council is seeking a Bookbus Coordinator to deliver Storytime sessions and provide an outstanding library experience for preschool children and families. Based in Chichester, the role is term-time and 30 hours per week, with the Bookbus responsible for lending, stock and a welcoming environment.

The post requires a full clean driving licence, CPC is desirable, and you will join the Families and Wellbeing team to support visits across local settings, promoting reading and