Weekend Library Assistant

Surrey County Council; Greater London, Elmbridge; On-site; GBP 3,000 - 23,000; Part time

Job summary

Join a dedicated team as a Weekend Library Assistant at a vibrant library, where you will contribute to community engagement through reading, events, and customer service. This role offers a unique opportunity to work in a lively environment that supports learning and cultural experiences. With a focus on excellent customer service, you will help create themed displays, assist visitors, and lead engaging activities for all ages. Enjoy a range of benefits including generous holiday leave, a supportive Employee Assistance Programme, and opportunities for personal development. This is your chance to make a positive impact in the community while enjoying a fulfilling role in a respected institution.

Benefits

26 days' holiday (pro rata)

Option to buy additional annual leave

Employee Assistance Programme

Carer's leave

Generous pension scheme

Lifestyle discounts

Paid volunteering days

Learning and development resources

Qualifications

• Enthusiastic and self-motivated with a positive attitude.
• Experience in customer service and community engagement.

Responsibilities

• Greet visitors and assist with reading recommendations.
• Plan events and maintain book stock.

Skills

Customer Service

Flexibility

Creativity

Initiative

Job description

Description

Based at Dittons Library, the starting salary for this role is £3,819.83 per annum working 6 hours per week (Saturdays). The full-time equivalent salary is £22,919 per annum.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and self-motivated Weekend Library Assistant to join our dedicated team. You will be based at Dittons Library, and you will also be required to work at Molesey Library.

Libraries are spaces for social interaction, learning, and cultural experiences. They act as economic enablers, supporting local communities and businesses. Surrey's libraries offer vital services to all members of their communities.

Rewards and Benefits

• 26 days' holiday (prorated for part-time staff), rising to 28 days after 2 years' service and 30 days after 5 years' service
• Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave
• An extensive Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing
• Up to 5 days of carer's leave per year
• Paternity, adoption, and dependents leave
• A generous local government salary-related pension
• Lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, shopping, and many more
• 2 paid volunteering days per year
• Learning and development hub with a wealth of resources

About the Team

Surrey Libraries hold a unique place in our communities. They provide universal access through a program of reading, learning, digital, health, and wellbeing activities.

Our vision is for our libraries to become community hubs that all are proud of. With excellent customer service at its core, we seek passionate individuals to help us succeed.

About the Role

There is something for everyone at Surrey's libraries, and no two days are the same.

The library serves many functions: a place for reading, studying, family activities, interest groups, and accessing resources. As a Weekend Assistant, you will greet visitors with a positive attitude and resilient approach to requests.

Customer service is central to this role. Libraries are lively, busy places requiring flexibility, creativity, and initiative. Your duties may include helping with reading recommendations, creating themed displays, planning events, assisting with information and virtual services, and maintaining book stock.

The role may involve leading craft events, Rhymetime, and Storytime sessions, and supporting activities for children and adults. You may need to work alone or travel to other libraries in the area to support the wider network.

Shortlisting Criteria

Applicants will be asked to upload their CV and answer the following questions, highlighting strengths and transferable skills:

• What motivated you to apply for the Surrey Library Service? (150 words)
• Provide an example of excellent customer service you have provided or received. (150 words)
• Describe an instance where you contributed to or observed a community service making a positive impact. (150 words)
• Name three ways you would attract more people to our libraries and explain your relevant skills. (150 words)

If shortlisted, you will receive interview questions in advance and be asked to read a short story.

Contact Us

For questions about the role, including flexible working or barriers to employment, please contact us.

The job advert closes at 23:59 on 14/05/2025, with interviews to follow.

We look forward to your application. Please click the 'Apply online' button below to submit.

Our Values

Our values are as important as our abilities and shape who we are. Discover more about our values.

Before applying, we recommend reading the job description. Our 'Life at Surrey' handbook offers insights into our culture and how you can help shape our Council.

Our Commitment

Surrey County Council is a proud Disability Confident Employer. A guaranteed interview will be offered to all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria and disclose their disability.

Our application process allows you to request reasonable adjustments for interviews or the role.

We aim to be an inclusive, diverse employer reflecting our community and welcome applications from underrepresented groups.