Work Experience Customer Advisor-Ferndown Library

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.  

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.  

For this placement you will be working out of Ferndown Library. 

What you will be doing:

• Greeting the customer and providing a friendly and welcoming service. 
• Helping to maintain library image standards by shelving and tidying stock 
• Checking & updating community information notices 
• Helping customers to use the self-service machines 
• Showing customers around the library 
• Packing and unpacking stock e.g. new books 
• Finding requested items and mobile collection stock on the shelves 
• Creating and maintaining book displays 
• Helping with children and family events e.g. Rhyme Time 
• Choosing books for housebound readers 
• Sorting the delivery  
• Photocopying & other admin duties 
• Preparing material in advance for activities 
  
  
  

  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.

  This role is an excellent opportunity if you are interested in gaining experience in customer service and working with people while supporting your local community. You’ll develop transferable skills which are valuable in many different careers.
  
  

  Support/Requirements

  • Location: Ferndown Library
  • Hours: Monday to Friday 10am-4pm
  • 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 Ferndown to buy lunch
  • Clothing: smart/casual, suitable clothing for working in a library environment

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

About you

What you will gain from a work experience placement

A work experience placement at Dorset Council can help you in the following ways:

• 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

At Dorset Council, we’re passionate about working together to create a fairer, more prosperous and more sustainable Dorset for current and future generations. 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.