Library Assistant Freelance NEW

Church of England

Lambeth Palace Library is the historic library and archive of the Archbishops of Canterbury and the principal repository for the archives of the national bodies of the Church of England. Founded in 1610, it is freely open for public use and serves as a research centre specialising in church history, with wide-ranging archive, manuscript and printed collections dating from the ninth century to the present day, including modern archives and digital records.
The Library’s vision is to collect, preserve and make accessible the memory of the Church of England, so that its history can be explored and enjoyed by all. Alongside its long-standing strengths, the Library is developing new ways of improving access to collections and enabling research, learning and engagement.

Working as part of the Printed Books team, the Library Assistant plays an important role in helping researchers and visitors access the Library’s collections. The role combines Reading Room and enquiry services with collections management, cataloguing and public engagement activities. It is well suited to someone who enjoys working with people, has an interest in collections, history and cultural heritage, and takes pride in providing an excellent service.

Responsibilities

Researcher services and public access

Providing a welcoming, professional and inclusive service to readers is central to this role. The postholder will help ensure that collections can be accessed safely and effectively by researchers and visitors.

This will include:

• Welcoming readers and visitors, supporting registration processes and helping people explore and make use of the Library’s collections and services.
• Retrieving, issuing and reshelving collection material and ensuring its secure and appropriate use.
• Responding to enquiries from researchers and readers, drawing on collections knowledge and information-finding skills to provide information and support.
• Processing requests for copies of collection material and maintaining accurate records where required.

Collections management and care

The postholder will support the organisation, documentation and care of the Library’s printed book and archive collections.

This will include:

• Cataloguing selected collections and enhancing catalogue records using appropriate library and archive management systems.
• Assisting with collections management activities, including stock checking, location control and movement of material.
• Supporting the safe handling and care of collections, and working with colleagues to identify material that may require specialist conservation treatment.
• Contributing to the security of collections and working in accordance with relevant procedures and guidance.

Outreach, engagement and learning

The Library is committed to enabling a wide range of audiences to discover and enjoy its collections. The postholder will contribute to activities that promote understanding and access.

This may include:

• Supporting exhibitions, displays and other public engagement activities.
• Contributing content for blogs, social media, research guides or other digital channels.
• Assisting with tours, events, learning activities and group visits.

Professional development

The Library encourages colleagues to develop their knowledge and skills and to contribute to a culture of continuous learning.

You will be expected to:

• Develop knowledge of the Library’s collections, catalogues and services.
• Participate in training and continuing professional development opportunities.
• Contribute ideas that help improve services, access and the visitor experience.

General responsibilities

• Work in accordance with Library policies, relevant legislation, professional standards and established in-house procedures.
• Contribute to a working environment characterised by respect, collaboration, compassion, integrity and a shared commitment to excellent service.
• Promote and maintain a strong safeguarding culture in relation to children and vulnerable adults.
• Undertake other duties reasonably required and consistent with the nature and level of the role.

About You

We are looking for someone who enjoys helping people, works accurately, collaborates effectively with colleagues, and takes pride in delivering excellent customer service. This role would suit someone with an interest in libraries, archives, special collections or cultural heritage, and an ambition to develop a career in archives and libraries, who is keen to contribute to making important collections accessible to a wide range of readers, researchers and visitors.

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate:

• The ability to research, evaluate and communicate information clearly, and to work methodically with complex information while applying agreed procedures and standards. This may have been gained through higher education, employment or other relevant experience.
• Experience of working in a customer-focused or public-facing environment, with strong communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to provide a high standard of service to a wide range of people.
• Good organisational skills, including the ability to manage competing priorities, work accurately and maintain attention to detail.
• Confidence using digital systems and office software, with the ability to learn and use specialist collections and information management systems, and to maintain accurate records using both digital and physical processes.
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively, contributing positively to a team environment and shared objectives.
• An interest in libraries, archives or cultural heritage, together with an understanding of, or willingness to learn about, the principles of collections care, access and security.

It would be an advantage if you also have:

• Experience of working in a library, archive, museum, gallery or similar cultural or educational environment.
• Familiarity with library or archive management systems.
• Experience of contributing to exhibitions, events, learning activities, blogs, social media or other public engagement activities.
• Knowledge of British history and an interest in church history

Additional requirements and information

• Ability to handle collection material in a range of formats and physical conditions, in accordance with relevant manual handling and health and safety procedures.
• Willingness to participate in the Library’s Reading Room rota, helping to support access to the collections through occasional evening and Saturday working, up to 18 evenings and 12 Saturdays per year.
• The post of Library Assistant is a permanent, full-time position based at Lambeth Palace Library. The postholder will be required to work 35 hours per week, with the role being office based.

The closing date for applications is 29 October 2026 at 23:55.