Receptionist & Library Desk Assistant

• Welcoming visitors to the department and providing assistance as necessary, including directing them to the appropriate area, dealing with queries and making travel arrangements

• Taking incoming phone calls, answer queries and redirect them appropriately to departmental extensions. Respond to queries in person, by phone and online; use online catalogues and other search tools including e-resources to help readers locate items within the Bodleian libraries and e-resources: assist readers in the use of IT equipment including reader PCs and photocopier-printers, and refer readers to specialised library services and other library staff when appropriate.

• Maintaining the tidiness and organisation of the reception area ensuring a smart professional image at the first point of contact.

• Monitor and maintain stationary and refreshment supplies.

• Register readers correctly according to their status and welcome visitors. Provide an introduction to the library and explain standard reading room procedures and regulations to readers.

• Work at the front line desk carrying out a full range of reader services transactions including: issuing, returning and renewing material; handling money; administering reserve collections, room bookings and inter-library loans; reserving books for readers and assisting them to make reservations and placing stack requests. Record statistics (e.g. records of occupancy of the reading rooms).

• Maintain information on library management system and run standard reports for information as required.

• Make the arrangements for booking library space and editing departmental booking information screen.

• Receive and log deliveries and courier mail, and liaison with Bodleian Libraries deliveries team.

• Exchange information and communicate effectively with colleagues, passing on reader feedback and reporting issues promptly; participate in team meetings and contribute to the wider objectives and goals of the team and Bodleian Libraries.

• Educated to GCSE grades A-C or equivalent
• A good understanding of standard administrative, customer service and library procedures and a commitment to providing excellent quality service.
• Ability to communicate effectively, confidently and courteously with readers, colleagues and the public
• Good general IT literacy including use of email, internet and general applications such as Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel)
• Discreet when dealing with material of a confidential or sensitive nature.
• Ability to understand and pass on clear and accurate information
• Attention to detail and ability to undertake a range of routine tasks with care and accuracy
• To be self-motivated and to work effectively, knowing when to refer matters to others
• Ability to lift, move and carry books and journals

Please be aware that all candidates need to be able to start work immediately and must be able to work on site if required to do so.

The Temporary Staffing Service supports University of Oxford departments and affiliated colleges with the recruitment of temporary admin and clerical staff. Personal information provided to the University of Oxford is held in accordance with the provisions of the GDPR and related UK data protection legislation.