Library Assistant (Reference) (Part Time, Fixed Term)

Ever wanted to work in an institution that is home to one of the world’s great collections of cultural treasures and research materials?

Spanning thousands of years of human thought and discovery, Cambridge University Library houses unique treasures and research materials made up of nearly ten million books, maps, manuscripts, photographs and priceless objects.

If you can think on your feet to resolve user issues, dig out information to answer research queries, and provide excellent customer service whilst doing it, we’d love to hear from you! This part-time role works Saturdays 8.45am-5pm and Thursdays 8.45-12.30pm.

The role

The Research and Information Services department is the main point of enquiry for users within the Library. Operating out of the main Reading Room we answer a huge variety of user enquiries, from simple IT issues to research support.

As a fixed term post until 1 December 2026, this part time post is available as a secondment alongside an existing role, or to supplement existing working hours for current university employees.

Please request permission from your line manager prior to applying.

As RIS Library Assistant you will:

• Provide a welcoming point of contact to the Library’s users.
• Assist with enquiries in-person and via email.
• Assist with research support in-person and via email
• Use the Library Management System to carry out all aspects of library work including the issuing and returning of books.
• Assist or lead library and information skills activities.
• Oversee all aspects of the main Reading Room, and its collection of reference material.
• Assist in the induction, training and supervision of cover staff.
• Cover other reader service positions as necessary.

What we are looking for

• Enthusiasm, initiative, and a committed approach to the delivery of the highest possible level of customer service. 
• Experience of working for a service that provided a high standard of customer service.
• Excellent communication skills.
• A thorough knowledge of IT and of electronic resources
• The ability to work well under pressure.
• The ability to switch between tasks as user needs require.
• The ability to work unsupervised as well as part of a team.

What we offer

• Generous annual leave allowance, pro-rata depending on days worked across the week.
• Exceptional parental leave (including maternity, paternity / co-parent, adoption and shared parental leave).
• Discounts on major retailers.
• Professional development opportunities such as apprenticeships and access to a variety of training courses.

How to apply

For informal enquiries please contact Christian Mills, Research and Information Services Team Leader, at cm2263@cam.ac.uk.

We welcome applications from internal candidates as a secondment. Please discuss with your line manager before applying.

Application closing date: 28^th June 2026.

Interview date : Tuesday 14 July 2026

For further details please refer to the Further Particulars. Click the 'Apply' button above. 

Please quote reference VE49978 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

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