Work Experience - Customer Advisor - Gillingham Library

Job description

About the role

The Dorset Library Service consists of 23 libraries alongside a 24/7 online service. The library teams work towards our mission to Inspire, Enable and Connect our communities through our services. We do this by providing access to books, information, and technology such as public computers and iPads and raising awareness of the service. Alongside this we deliver a wide programme of events and activities for all ages and provide a welcoming environment for all members of the community.

About the RoleThis role aims to give students an insight into the running of our libraries, learn new skills, increase confidence and support their decision making towards future careers. There are opportunities to engage with customers and support enquiries, which can range from locating stock within the library to accessing the internet and finding information. There will also be opportunities to be involved in planning and running activities that are part of our events programme such as Craft and Lego activities. You will also be able to support with creating content suitable for our social media.

For this role you will work from Gillingham Library.

Who can applyStudents in year 10-13

Key responsibilities

provide a friendly welcome to all customers using the library

help library users access and use: stock, information, computers, and other services

support customers using the Customer Self Service machines

undertake duties associated with providing a library service such as stocking displays and shelving

assist with events and activities within the library

promote services to customers

About you

enjoy working with others as part of a team

enthusiastic and motivated to support the community

willing to develop and learn new skillswilling to listen and engage with people

Support/Requirements

Location: Gillingham Library

Hours: Monday 10am - 5pmTuesday 12pm - 5pmWednesday OFFThursday 10am - 5pmFriday 10am - 5pm

Travel: Transport to and from the placement to be arranged by the student

Meals/breaks: 1 hour lunch. Either bring a packed lunch, or you are welcome to walk into Gillingham to buy lunch.

Clothing: smart/casual, suitable clothing for working in a library environment

Further InformationWho can apply?We welcome everyone, including students, unemployed individuals, and those looking to change careers. We aim to support the local community by offering valuable work experience opportunities.

What will be expected of youDuring your placement, you will work with experienced staff on real projects and tasks. We expect you to:

follow all council rules and health and safety guidelines

take responsibility for your learning and ask for help when needed

follow instructions from your placement manager

attend work at the agreed times during your placement

stay motivated and make the most of this opportunity to show what you can do

What you will gain from a work experience placement

confidence: get used to the workplace and build your confidence

new skills: learn new skills or improve the ones you already have

networking: meet new people and make professional connections

CV boost: show teamwork and customer service skills on your CV

references: gain valuable references for future job applications

share skills: use your unique skills to help our team

About UsAt Dorset Council, we're passionate about making Dorset a great place to live, work, and visit. Working for us should be no exception. If you want to make a real difference in your community, a work experience placement with us is a great opportunity. Working in local government is rewarding and offers the chance to solve important challenges.

Why work with us?Local government touches the lives of everybody, everyday. At Dorset Council, we:

provide more than 450 services to over 300,000 residents

have ambitious aspirations and are excited about our future

care deeply about Dorset and all the people who live here

know that all roles make a difference and that our employees are key to our success

Join us at Dorset Council and start making a difference in your community today.

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Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

Gillingham

Type of Contract

Full-time jobs

Published at

03-04-2026

Profession type

Customer Service

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English