Library Assistant
The Bodleian Libraries form part of the University of Oxford’s Gardens, Libraries and Museums group and provide world-class library services to students, staff, and readers from across the globe. This post is based primarily at the Bodleian Old Library and the Radcliffe Camera, with occasional work at other Bodleian Humanities Libraries as required.
You will welcome readers and visitors, administer admissions procedures, and provide high-quality customer service at front line service points. You will respond to enquiries in person, by phone and online, assist readers in using library spaces, collections and electronic resources, and refer enquiries to specialist colleagues where appropriate. You will carry out a full range of reader services transactions including issuing and returning material, administering bookings and inter-library loans, and recording usage statistics.
This is a permanent, part-time post, working 32.48 hours per week (0.89 FTE).
About You
You will be educated to GCSE level or equivalent and will be able to communicate effectively, confidently and courteously with readers, colleagues and members of the public. You will have experience in a customer service role and an awareness of the importance of providing a welcoming and high-quality service. You will be comfortable using IT systems, including email, the internet and standard office applications, and will be able to carry out routine tasks with care and accuracy.
As an employer, the University of Oxford genuinely cares about employees’ wellbeing and this is reflected in the range of benefits that they offer including:
• An excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days of annual leave
• A comprehensive range of childcare services
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle loan scheme
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
More information is available at https://hr.admin.ox.ac.uk/staff-benefits
Diversity
The University of Oxford’s staff and students come from all over the world, and they proudly promote a friendly and inclusive culture. Diversity is positively encouraged, through diverse groups and champions, as well as a number of family-friendly policies, such as the right to apply for flexible working and support for staff returning from periods of extended absence, for example, shared parental leave.
The University of Oxford is committed to ensuring that their recruitment processes is inclusive and accessible. If you require the job description or any other materials in an alternative format, or if you would like to request any adjustments to support you through the application or interview process, please contact the recruitment team at [email protected].
How to apply
You will be required to upload your CV and a supporting evidence form using the attached template as part of your online application. Your supporting evidence form should list each of the essential and desirable selection criteria, as listed in the job description, and explain how you meet each one. CVs alone will not be considered.
The University of Oxford aims to provide a supportive working environment and is happy to discuss training and professional development opportunities. The Chair of this recruitment panel will be Morwenna Broughton, Reader Services Manager. Any queries relating to the role or about the recruitment and application process should be directed in the first instance to the Recruitment team within the Human Resources department ([email protected]).
Only applications received online by 12.00 midday GMT on Friday 16 January 2026 can be considered. Interviews are expected to take place on Friday 6 February 2026.
