Community Services Officer - Outreach (Libraries)

Bring libraries to life in our communities.

Are you enthusiastic, confident and passionate about working with people?

Do you enjoy delivering activities, building relationships and making a real difference in local communities?

We're looking for an outgoing and motivated Community Services Officer (Outreach) to help bring North Somerset Libraries beyond our buildings and directly into the heart of our communities.

This is a varied and rewarding role where no two days are the same. One day you could be leading a lively Rhymetime for families, the next supporting older residents through a digital skills session, promoting library services at a community event, or helping deliver our popular Summer Reading Challenge.

If you're someone who thrives on engaging with people, enjoys working independently and loves creating positive experiences, we'd love to hear from you.

Key responsibilities:

- Plan and deliver engaging activities including Rhymetimes, Storytimes, Summer Reading Challenge events, digital support sessions and community-based programmes.

- Promote library services at festivals, markets, schools, community events and information days.

- Inspire new audiences to discover the benefits of libraries, reading, digital resources and volunteering opportunities.

- Provide excellent customer service, supporting people to access services and information.

- Work with the Mobile Library Service, helping bring books, information and support to communities across North Somerset.

- Build positive relationships with community groups, volunteers, schools and partner organisations.

- Support Community Managed Libraries and Home Library Service volunteers.

- Work flexibly across a range of community locations.

This position is exempt under the provisions of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions) Order 1975 and is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.

Valid driving licence and own transport, or be able to provide alternative, suitable method of travel is an essential condition for this role.

Work style.

At North Somerset Council, we offer a hybrid working environment based on four distinct work styles. Depending on the role and personal circumstances, you will fall into one of these categories. However, please note that during the induction period, it may be necessary to spend more time in the office to support your learning and development. We are flexible and open to discussions about your preferred working style, and if you wish to be in the office more frequently, this can be negotiated.

This role falls into the category of Mobile/Field Worker which means you can expect to work in the following way:

- Typically working 0-1 day in the office, e.g. for meetings or focused work.

- Undertaking work remotely, e.g. delivering outreach activities in libraries or in community locations.

- Maintaining connection with the wider team, e.g. using Microsoft Teams.

Library experience is welcome but not essential. We're more interested in your enthusiasm, communication skills and ability to engage people in meaningful activities.

What we offer.

At North Somerset Council, we value our employees and provide a supportive and inclusive work environment.

North Somerset Council is committed to providing high-quality services to our community. We are committed to creating a fair, green, and more inclusive environment for all our residents. Join us and contribute to making a positive impact on our community.

Competitive salary and benefits

- Flexible working arrangements

- Local Government Pension

- Opportunities for professional development

- Inclusive Staff groups including Carers, Disabled, LGBTQ+, REACH (Race, Ethnicity, and Cultural Heritage), and Young Staff Forums

- Opportunity to purchase up to an additional 10 days annual leave each year

- Dedicated in house Wellbeing Team

- Salary sacrifice Cycle to Work and Electric Vehicle schemes

Further details of our excellent rewards package can be found in our Benefits booklet.