Library Assistants

Surrey Libraries hold a unique place in our communities offering something for everyone, and no two days are the same. They provide universal access through a programme of reading, learning, digital, and health and wellbeing activities. Our vision is for our libraries to become hubs of the community that all are proud of. With excellent customer service at its heart, we need people who share this passion to become more successful.

Library Assistants greet each person with a positive attitude and resilient approach to any request. Customer service is at the forefront of our library service, making them busy, lively places to work. Flexibility, creativity, and initiative are key.

The responsibilities of the role include:

• Helping with reading recommendations
• Creating new themes for book displays
• Maintaining, presenting, and processing book stock
• Leading craft events, Rhymetime, and Storytime sessions
• Engaging with schools to organise visits and class assemblies
• Assisting with or leading activities for both children and adults
• Lone working or single staffing at this and other libraries in the area

As part of the application, please answer the following questions (150 words each):

Qualifications and requirements:

• Proven experience in providing or receiving excellent customer service.
• Evidence of observing or contributing to a community service that made a positive impact.
• Creative ideas for attracting more people to our libraries, aligned with the Surrey Way framework.

Surrey County Council is undergoing Local Government Reorganisation, moving from a two-tier system to new unitary councils in April 2027. Your role will transfer with current terms and conditions to one of these new councils, supporting local devolution and greater powers for our communities.

Join our dynamic team and shape the future of local government. Make a lasting impact with innovative solutions and improved services for our community. Help us build a brighter future for our residents!

This role has a starting salary of £14,613 per annum (pro rata to £25,052 FTE), based on a 21 hour working week. We are looking for an enthusiastic and self‑motivated Library Assistant to join our dedicated team. You will be based at Cobham Library, and you will also be required to work at Guildford Library. Libraries are spaces for social interaction, learning and cultural experiences, acting as an economic enabler providing support for local communities and businesses.

Surrey's libraries offer vital services to all members of their communities.

Rota configuration:

Week 1
Week 2
Monday Tuesday 9-5
Wednesday Thursday 9-5 9-5
Friday 9-5 9-5
Saturday 9-5
Sunday
This rota is subject to temporary or long‑term revision to meet the needs of the library service. This may include occasionally covering until 7pm. You may be required to travel to other locations to support the wider library network as required.

• 26 days' holiday, rising to 28 days after 2 years' service and 31 days after 5 years' service
• Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave
• A generous local government salary related pension
• Up to 5 days of carer's leave and 2 paid volunteering days per year
• Paternity, adoption and dependents leave
• An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing
• Learning and development hub where you can access a wealth of resources
• Wellbeing and lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, and shopping
• A chance to make a real difference to the lives of our residents.