Work Experience - Customer Advisor - Gillingham Library

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 Role

This 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 apply

Students 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 skills
  willing to listen and engage with people

Support/Requirements

• Location: Gillingham Library
• Hours: Monday 10am - 5pm
  Tuesday 12pm - 5pm
  Wednesday OFF
  Thursday 10am - 5pm
  Friday 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 Information Who 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 you

During 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 Us

At 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.