Research and Collections Librarian

Overview of the Role:

We are looking for an enthusiastic and pro-active Research & Collections Librarian to join our library team.

This role is based at the iconic RHS Wisley Garden, the 240-acre flagship garden of the RHS and one of the UK’s most visited and best-loved gardens, attracting over one million visitors each year.  Our purpose build library is located in RHS Hilltop - the UK’s first dedicated horticultural scientific centre of excellence which opened in 2021 and was awarded an RIBA Regional Award.

RHS Libraries are situated in Wisley, London and Harlow Carr and provide access to a collection of over 100,000 items, including many rare and precious materials including archives, manuscripts, rare books, photographs and art collections. The RHS Library collection is widely regarded as the finest collection of horticultural literature in the world and has been awarded Designated Status by Arts Council England, signifying its national and international importance.

Part of the charitable purpose of the RHS, it is used by a wide range of users from researchers and academics to gardeners, students and children, all needing information adapted to their level.  Over 80,000 visits are made to the libraries each year. Library staff respond to some 17,000 enquiries a year from all over the world on a wide variety of subjects connected to the science of horticulture, gardening and the history of the RHS.

Our Research and Collections Librarian will:

• Support students, staff, members & researchers using the library.
• Contribute to a programme of tours, talks, and events to promote the library and its collections.
• Contribute to a programme of collection management.
• The ideal candidate will be a confident communicator who enjoys engaging with a range of different users.

To work for the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) is to join a thriving charity, whose mission is to be there for everyone on their lifelong adventure with gardening. Everything we do is built on the transformational power of gardening – and the benefits it brings to people, places and our planet.

And we couldn’t do this without our people. We’re proud of the knowledge, enthusiasm and ideas that each one of our team members brings. From working across our social media channels, to volunteering in the RHS Gardens, from serving customers in our garden centres to running national marketing campaigns, we believe that every member of the RHS team should have the opportunity to make a difference.  Our careers portal here provides a comprehensive overview of what we offer, the teams that work at the RHS and our great benefits.

Safeguarding and Inclusion

The RHS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and expects all personnel to share in this commitment. We are an inclusive employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

We may review applications as soon as we receive them so if you see a vacancy that you are interested in, please apply straight away as the vacancy will be closed as soon as we hire the right candidate. If you require any additional support with making your application, please contact sharonellis@rhs.org.uk please ensure to include the job title or job reference number REQ (found at the top of the advert) when emailing.

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