Apprentice Library, Information & Archive Services Assistant (Apprentice LIAS Assistant)

As an apprentice Library, Information and Archive Services Assistant you will:

·Provide in-person support on the library floors, helping users navigate services and maintain a positive and inclusive study environment.

· Guide users in using library services and collections, both print and digital, and signpost them to relevant services delivered by other teams and the wider University.

· Confidently handle occasional challenges to ensure the space remains welcoming and conducive to learning.

· Help users with IT-related queries, including accessing e-resources, the library catalogue and self-service kiosks.

· Conduct checks on equipment and library study areas.

· Develop an understanding of users' diverse information needs by supporting research activities and helping them access digital and physical resources.

· Support the organisation and promotion of resources to ensure they are well-arranged, accessible, and widely used. 

· Assist with the care, documentation, and accessibility of library and archive collections.

·KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES-Team Specific: User Support and Engagement

•  Provide friendly, informed assistance to users across in-person and digital channels (e.g. library floors, email, phone, MS Teams).

•  Work on the library floors, providing in-person assistance, guidance, and support to users.

•  Proactively handle challenging situations to ensure an effective study environment.

•  Interpret user needs and signpost relevant resources, services, and support.

•  Encourage appropriate use of study spaces (silent, group, etc.) to promote a positive learning environment.

•  Handle routine user issues independently, escalating complex cases where needed.

•   Assist in delivering an inclusive and welcoming service that supports independent learning.

• Collections and Information Services

•  Assist with the intake, organisation, care and promotion of library and archive collections (physical and digital).

• Help update catalogue records, run reports, collate data and digitise materials as appropriate.

• Support the description and documentation of collection items, including archive materials.

• Promote collections via displays, exhibitions, and digital platforms to increase visibility and usage.

•  Help ensure safe, ethical, and sustainable handling, storage, and withdrawal of materials in line with policy.

· Service Delivery and Collaboration

•  Maintain accurate service records and update internal systems promptly.

•  Work with colleagues in Library Services and across departments (e.g. Student & Academic Services, IT, Estates and Facilities management) to ensure a high quality, seamless service.

•  Participate in service evaluations and user research activities, using feedback to support continuous improvement.

•   Promote awareness of services, policies, and digital literacy support to enhance user understanding.

•  Contribute ideas for improving processes and engaging users with information resources.

•  Apprenticeship and Development

• Engage fully in the Level 3 apprenticeship programme, including study, coaching, and monthly progress reviews.

• Take personal responsibility for learning and development, remaining up to date with procedures and best practices.

• Seek guidance and feedback to improve performance and build professional knowledge

Training:

You will spend one day each week on training (either Thursday or Friday). The training provider is Westminster Adult Education Service and the college you will be attending is located at:
Westminster Adult Education Service
219 Lisson Grove
London NW8 8LW.
For more information see: https://www.waes.ac.uk/about-us/why-study-at-waes/
You'll study to gain a Library, Information & Archive Services Apprenticeship - Level 3 qualification.

Training Outcome:

Once qualified, LIAS Apprentices can apply for library vacancies at the University of Greenwich or a range of other library, information and archive services in a University, public library, health or school library setting. Career pathways for LIAS Apprentices are described in more detail on the CILIP website at: https://www.cilip.org.uk/page/LISApprenticeship

Employer Description:
The University of Greenwich aims to be the top modern university in the UK by 2030, focusing on student success, inclusivity, impactful research, and sustainability. The main campus is in central Greenwich, with two other campuses at Medway in Kent and Avery Hill in SE London. With over 30,000 students, we are a vibrant place to work. For 2023, the University of Greenwich was ranked 60 out of 121 UK Universities according to Times Higher Education (THE).

Working Hours :
4 weekdays (Monday to Friday) with 5 hours 45 minutes work per day (23 hours total), plus 1 paid study day (7 hours). Working hours will be assigned according to service needs, and flexibility may occasionally be required

Skills:
Communication skills,IT skills,Attention to detail,Organisation skills,Customer care skills,Problem solving skills,Presentation skills,Administrative skills,Number skills,Analytical skills,Logical,Team working,Creative,Initiative,Non judgemental,Patience