Library Assistant

We are looking for a Senior Library Assistant to join the Library at the House of Lords. This is a position where you will get the opportunity to participate in the Library's Collections Project, which is auditing and preparing the Library collections to be moved offsite to facilitate the Restoration and Renewal of the Palace of Westminster. The post will play a vital role in ensuring the safeguarding of the Library's collections during this crucial phase of the project.

This is an opportunity to work onsite at Parliament! This is an exciting opportunity for someone wishing to work in a Library at a paraprofessional level or to build upon existing paraprofessional Library experience through project work.

Please note:

• This post is based onsite and is not suitable for regular remote working.


• This post involves manual handling (lifting, carrying, using a trolley); use of ladders; computer work, some working in confined spaces and some lone working.


You'll be accountable for:

• Records appraisal, catalogue updates and inventory record-keeping, including use of the Koha Library Management System, SharePoint and other systems or IT packages as required, including Excel and Word.


• Packing and barcoding collections, working to collection care standards and guidelines.


• Supporting collections disposals and moves through stock identification, retrieval and relocation.


• Extensive manual handling and use of ladders.


• Providing other administrative and clerical assistance to the Library as required, including core duties such as administering binding work, invoice processing and assisting colleagues within the Library Assistant team.
  
  A keen eye for detail.


• Good teamworking skills.


• Confident IT skills - particularly Microsoft Excel.


It would be even better if you had or if you're willing to learn…

• Familiarity with Parliamentary publications.


• Experience in recording bibliographical data.


• Experience in handling historical volumes.
  
  30 days annual leave (increasing to 35 after one years' service)


• Generous pension scheme


• Discounts from well-known brands and retailers


• Parliamentary health and wellbeing programme


• The opportunity to witness history in the making!


The work we do is vital to House of Lords, and you will be a pivotal member in the team strengthening the work of the House. The House of Lords is the second chamber of the UK parliament. It is independent from and complements the work of the House of Commons to:

• Make laws.


• Check and challenge the actions of the government through questions and debates.


• Investigate public policy and provide a forum of independent expertise.