Library Assistant

THE SCHOOL

St Helen’s is an academically selective independent girls’ day school of more than 1100 students aged 3-18, set in beautiful green space in Northwood, Middlesex. 

THE POST

To be part of a team providing effective and efficient library information resource services to both pupils and staff. To enjoy working with young people and to contribute to the wider aspect of life in the school. To support the work of the librarian through clerical routines, systems, and administrative support and in the pastoral support of the pupils.

Reporting to: Senior School Librarian

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

• To operate the automated library management system (Heritage), overseeing the issue and return of stock and preparing overdue letters.
• To maintain a well organised environment in the library, including tidying the shelves after the lunch break and shelving returned and used books as and when needed.
• To undertake a range of administrative routines associated with processing and ordering new materials, cataloguing of new stock and the receipt of library orders and newspapers.
• To assist with stock maintenance procedures including stock checks and the removal of out of date or damaged materials and the repair and maintenance of existing library stock.
• To assist and advise pupils and staff to make effective use of the library and other information sources by advising them on the selection of books, other resources, the use of the library catalogue and the library’s digital resources on SharePoint.
• Assist with the supervision of girls working in the library and the enforcement of library rules.
• Assist with the training and organisation of duties for pupil librarians and DofE volunteers.
• Supervise the Senior School Library during the librarian’s absence and assist in the Junior School Library when required.

THE PERSON

We would like the successful candidate to have the following qualifications, experience, and personal attributes:

Essential:

·        GCSE or equivalent in English and Maths (L4 or above)

·        Organised and methodical

·        Good IT skills

·        Ability to work on your own initiative.

·        Able to work calmly and effectively in a busy environment.

·        Good communication skills

·        Team player – able to work co-operatively and flexibly with staff and students and be prepared to assist with appropriate tasks as directed.

Desirable:

·        Previous library experience, including the use of a Library Management System

·        Knowledge of literature for children and young adults, or willingness to learn.

SALARY: £11.95 per hour

HOURS: 10.00am - 3.00pm, Monday to Friday, Term time only.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Closing date: 8am Wednesday 27th September 2023

Please apply as soon as possible as shortlisting/interviews will progress up until the closing date. Should a suitable candidate be appointed, we reserve the right to close the advert early. 

Due to the high volume of applicants, we receive, if you do not hear from us within 4 weeks of the closing date, please assume we will not be progressing your application further on this occasion.

THE SELECTION PROCESS

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to the school where they will be interviewed by the Senior School Librarian and Head of Department, have a tour of the school, and meet members of the team.

St Helen’s school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, as detailed in Part 3 (Safer Recruitment) of the KCSIE 2023 guidance document. Applicants will be asked for proof of right to work in the UK and undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and the disclosure and barring service.

If you have any queries about this position, please contact the school at recruitment@sthelens.london