Library and Digital Assistant

This is a generic job description, and you will also be expected to support with one or more of the specialized functions detailed below as well as front-of-house duties:

• Cataloguing and indexing services.
• Library support and acquisitions services.
• School Library Service support.

Responsibilities

• You will be working directly with citizens, supporting them with their information, learning, and reading needs.
• You will actively engage with customers both in the library setting and through outreach activities.
• You will contribute to the development and promotion of the library service and its events and activities programme, including learning sessions, for all ages and sections of the community.
• You will deliver a range of events, activities, and learning sessions, including talks.
• You will ensure that library resources are well maintained and creatively displayed to engage readers.
• You will contribute to ensuring that performance standards and targets are achieved.
• You will be proactive in delivering excellent customer care and maintaining a welcoming, tidy, and safe environment.
• You will liaise with schools and other partners and stakeholders.
• You will support Leeds 100% digital campaign by supporting residents with their basic digital skills.
• You will complete administrative functions such as rotas and timetables, maintain accurate financial, statistical, administrative, and bibliographic records, monitor risk assessments, and health & safety procedures.
• You will engage in project groups and support the delivery of the annual business plan.
• You will be responsible for the supervision of volunteers and work placements.
• You will assist with audio-visual and digital support for library events and activities.
• You will undertake cataloguing duties, index, scan, digitize, and input materials onto the relevant library databases.
• You will work within multiple teams and at other venues as required, be flexible in working hours within your contracted hours, and work evenings and weekends as required, including events outside of library open hours.
• The work is physical and involves standing, lifting, and carrying.
• You will be responsible for your personal health and safety and that of other people who use the library service. You will be expected to be vigilant for the safety of the building, opening and closing as required. Completing the duties of fire marshal, fire warden, and emergency incident officer and shift supervisor as assigned. There may be occasions when you are working on your own.
• This post involves direct work with the public in an open-access setting; the post holder will need to display resilience to some demanding situations.
• Flexible and adaptable to change to assist other services as required commensurate to grade.
• Participate in appraisal, training, and development activities as necessary to ensure up-to-date knowledge and skills.
• Improve own practice through observation, evaluation, discussion with colleagues, and appropriate CPD programmes.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, knowing when to seek help and advice.
• Contribute to the overall ethos, work, and aims of the service by attending relevant meetings, training days/events as requested.
• Be aware of and comply with Leeds City Council policies and procedures, e.g., child protection, health, safety, and security, confidentiality, and data protection, reporting all concerns to an appropriate person.
• Be aware of and support difference and ensure equality for all working in an anti-discriminatory manner, upholding, and promoting the values, standards, and equality & diversity policies of Leeds City Council.
• Recognise and appropriately challenge any incidents of racism, bullying, harassment, victimisation, and any form of abuse of equal opportunities, ensuring compliance with relevant policies and procedures.
• The duties outlined are not meant as an exhaustive list and will also comprise any other duties within the spirit of the post commensurate with the job evaluation outcome for this post.
• The Council has adopted a flexibility protocol, and this role will be expected to work within these parameters.

Qualifications

• You have a good level of literacy and numeracy (GCSE or equivalent).

Personal Specification

Method of assessment will be through one or more of the following: application form, test, interview, and certificate.

Essential Requirements

It is essential that the candidate should be able to demonstrate the following criteria for the post within the context of the specific role duties and responsibilities. Candidates will only be shortlisted for interview if they can demonstrate on the application form that they meet all the essential requirements.

• You are able and enthusiastic about supporting and encouraging customers to develop their reading choices, digital skills, and to access information and learning opportunities.
• You have good digital skills, are confident using technology, and maximizing its benefits.
• You can connect readily and naturally with people.
• You have excellent communication skills, listening, written, and verbal. You are able to communicate clearly to a wide range of audiences.
• You are committed to customer service excellence, able to deal positively with feedback and difficult situations, and to seek positive resolution.
• You have well-developed organizational skills and show excellent attention to detail.
• You are able to work without supervision.
• Able to work flexibly across different work locations and areas as appropriate.
• You have a good knowledge of the role of public libraries and services offered.
• You have a good level of literacy and numeracy (GCSE or equivalent).
• You have experience of working or volunteering in a library or customer service environment.
• You have experience of working as part of a team.
• You have experience of assessing someone’s information or learning needs and using a variety of accredited resources to satisfy them.
• You have experience of undertaking administrative tasks.
• You have experience of working with others in a positive and constructive way.
• Committed to continuous improvement.
• You have a passion for libraries, especially their role in supporting reading and learning.
• Able to understand and observe Leeds City Council equality and diversity policies.
• Carry out all duties having regard to an employee’s responsibility under Health and Safety Policies.
• Willingness to actively participate in training and development activities to ensure up-to-date knowledge, skills, and continuous professional development.
• Understand and embrace our values, behaviours, and codes of conduct.

Behavioural And Other Characteristics Required