Library Assistant (Weekend Support)
Southbank Centre · London, England, United Kingdom
- On site
- Part-time
- £27,000 / year
- London, England, United Kingdom
Job highlights
- Part-time permanent Library Assistant role.
- Weekend shifts: Friday to Sunday.
- Work at the National Poetry Library.
- Assist with library operations and customer service.
- Requires interest in poetry/literature and IT skills.
About the role
About the Role
We are currently looking for a Library Assistant to join our National Poetry Library team on a part-time permanent contract. This is a weekend position with shifts from Friday to Sunday. We currently have two scheduling options available: working weekly or working every second weekend. Please find further information within the application.
About the National Poetry Library
The National Poetry Library is the largest public collection of modern poetry in the world. Opened in 1953 by T.S. Eliot, the NPL is a living collection that is used by a wide range of people from school children to poets. Our strategy is informed by Southbank Centre’s artistic vision, with the National Poetry Library contributing to the UK’s most culturally democratic arts space, adding to its dynamism as a creative engine of culture.
Key Responsibilities
- To offer exceptional customer service in line with the NPL’s strategy in the library.
- Deputise in the absence of the librarians, including at weekends and opening and closing-up the library at the beginning and end of the day.
- To ensure the circulation of books and other library materials.
- To assist with the provision of poetry-related information and information related to Southbank Centre.
Skills & Experience
- Obtains a strong interest in or knowledge of poetry or literature.
- Demonstrable IT skills, including MS Office packages and Google Drive.
- Has a friendly manner and a proven track record of delivering a high standard of customer service.
- Able to demonstrate an understanding of and commitment to the role that diversity and inclusion play in the activities of the Southbank Centre as a whole and in the work of this particular job.
Benefits
As well as working at one of London's most popular and exciting sites the successful candidate will also benefit from the following:
- A min 5% pension contribution (going up to 9% depending on employee contribution), from day 1 of employment
- 28 days annual leave, plus bank holidays
- Enhanced sick pay
- Enhanced family leave benefits
- Up to 30% discounts at onsite retail, food and beverage vendors
- Staff ticket offers for SC events
- Free entry to Hayward Gallery
- Free/discounted entry with other reciprocal organisations
- Free staff yoga
Key skills/competency
- Library Assistant
- Weekend Support
- Customer Service
- Library Operations
- Poetry Collection
- Literature
- IT Skills
- MS Office
- Google Drive
- Diversity and Inclusion
Skills & topics
- Library Assistant
- Weekend Support
- Customer Service
- Library Operations
- Poetry
- Literature
- IT Skills
- Southbank Centre
- London Jobs
- Part-time
How to get hired
- Tailor your resume: Highlight your interest in poetry, literature, and customer service experience.
- Showcase IT proficiency: Emphasize your skills with MS Office and Google Drive.
- Address diversity and inclusion: Demonstrate your understanding and commitment to these principles.
- Apply directly: Submit your application via the official careers website before the deadline.
- Prepare for interviews: Be ready to discuss your customer service approach and passion for poetry.
Technical preparation
Familiarize with MS Office Suite.,Practice using Google Drive features.,Understand library circulation systems.,Research NPL's digital resources.
Behavioral questions
Describe a customer service challenge you faced.,How do you handle competing priorities?,How do you promote inclusivity?,Why are you passionate about poetry?
Frequently asked questions
- What are the working hours for the Library Assistant role at Southbank Centre?
- This Library Assistant position involves weekend work, with shifts typically from Friday to Sunday. You can choose between working every weekend or every second weekend. The exact weekly hours will be detailed in the job advert.
- What is the salary for the Weekend Library Assistant at the National Poetry Library?
- The stated annual salary is £33,600, which is based on a Full-Time Equivalent of 40 hours per week. As this is a part-time role, your actual salary will be pro-rated based on the hours you work.
- What qualifications or experience are needed for the Library Assistant job?
- To be considered for the Library Assistant role, you need a strong interest or knowledge of poetry or literature, demonstrable IT skills (MS Office, Google Drive), excellent customer service experience, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- How can I apply for the Library Assistant position at Southbank Centre?
- You can apply for the Library Assistant position by visiting the official Southbank Centre careers website and submitting your application before the deadline of May 24, 2026. Applications sent via email or third-party agencies will not be considered.
- Does Southbank Centre offer any benefits for Library Assistants?
- Yes, Southbank Centre offers several benefits, including a minimum 5% pension contribution, 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays, enhanced sick and family leave, discounts at onsite vendors, staff ticket offers, and free entry to the Hayward Gallery.
- What is the National Poetry Library's significance?
- The National Poetry Library is the world's largest public collection of modern poetry, established in 1953. It's a dynamic cultural resource used by diverse individuals, contributing to Southbank Centre's mission as a democratic arts space.
- Can I request reasonable adjustments for the Library Assistant application process?
- Absolutely. Southbank Centre is committed to accessibility. If you need reasonable adjustments, please contact them directly, providing the job title you're applying for and your full name.