About us
Libraries in Oxfordshire are trusted spaces, free to enter and open to all. Our libraries offer a range of books, digital and other resources and trained staff to help our customers. We provide cultural and creative enrichment, promote reading and literacy and provide digital access and support for our users. Our aim is to help everyone achieve their full potential and to lead healthier and happier lives with greater prosperity and stronger, more resilient communities.
About the role
A Shelving Assistant helps keep the library running smoothly by ensuring returned books and other materials are accurately shelved, tidy, and well‑maintained, including identifying items in need of repair. They support colleagues and volunteers in managing stock, assist customers with enquiries and resource selection, and promote awareness of library services. The role also involves following agreed procedures, maintaining safe and orderly public and staff areas, contributing to team meetings, and upholding the principles of equal opportunities in both service delivery and workplace practice.
About You
We are looking for a reliable and organised individual with strong customer‑service skills, who enjoys working as part of a team, can work independently when required, and is committed to providing a welcoming, inclusive and safe library environment for people of all ages and backgrounds. The ideal candidate will also enjoy working with library stock and take pride in maintaining high standards of presentation, ensuring shelves and public areas are well‑ordered and visually appealing for customers.
Rewards and benefits
It really is true that every single job role here contributes to bettering the lives of the people in our county - we want to do this for our employees too. We are proud of our strong flexible working culture, including the opportunity for flexibility on working hours and the use of technology to support agile working. We offer some of the best learning and development opportunities to support your ongoing development. We have a generous holiday allowance which rises as you remain in employment with us up to 32 days, as well as giving you the option to buy additional holiday. You will also have access to a Local Government Pension Scheme with employer contributions of up to 19.9% of your salary; a range of local and national retail discounts; and a host of enhanced family friendly policies including carers leave and paid time off for volunteering.
Would you like to know more?
For an informal discussion about the role please contact Darius Welsh, Assistant Library Manager via Darius.welsh@oxfordshire.gov.uk
Application Procedure
To apply, you will need to complete an online application form. This includes a section asking you to explain how you meet the selection criteria, as specified in the job posting. You may attach a cover letter and/or CV to your application form, however it is not mandatory. To ensure you understand the requirements of the role in a library environment, we will require you to answer the following “killer question” before your full application is shortlisted: In no more than 100 words, what are the three most important roles Libraries play in the community? If you experience any difficulties whilst completing the application form, please contact the Recruitment Team using Recruitment Application Enquiry Form.
Our commitment to: Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
At Oxfordshire County Council we are proud of our diverse workforce. Everyone is accepted for who they are, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital status, race, faith or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, or on maternity or family leave. We have a number of staff network groups which provide peer support, education and safe spaces for all.
Our commitment to: Guaranteed Interview Schemes
As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview for disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the job. We also guarantee interviews to care leavers who have completed further education and who meet the essential criteria for the job. For those leaving care without any further education, we guarantee an interview for our apprenticeships. We are also committed to helping and supporting those transitioning from HM Armed Forces to civilian life and guarantee an interview for those demonstrating the essential criteria for the role, within three years of leaving the service.
Our commitment to: Safeguarding
Oxfordshire County Council are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We expect all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect these commitments.
Our commitment to: Flexible Working
We are open to discussions about flexible working, which can include flexi-time, part time working, job sharing, nine-day fortnights and annualised hours, depending on the requirements of the role and the service.
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Stay up-to-date with the latest news and featured jobs from Oxfordshire County Council by following us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. If you encounter any issues with the application system, please contact us at: darius.welsh@oxfordshire.gov.uk
