Library Duty Manager

WHAT IS INVOLVED?

We’re looking for a permanent 16.5 hr enthusiastic and customer-focused Library Duty Manager to help lead the day‑to‑day operation of our Seaham library and two community branches at Murton and Easington Colliery.

This role is normally worked Monday, Friday and alternate Saturday mornings.

Week 1:
Monday: 9.00 am‑7.15 pm
Friday: 9.00 am‑4.00 pm

Week 2:
Monday: 9.00 am‑7.15 pm
Friday: 9.00 am‑4.00 pm
Saturday: 9.15 am‑12.45 pm

You’ll ensure our libraries run safely, efficiently and to a high standard, creating a welcoming environment for all users. Working closely with the Operations Manager, you’ll lead staff, champion excellent customer care, and help deliver a positive, “can‑do” culture across the service.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations and ensure a high‑quality customer experience.
• Supervise and support staff, including recruitment, training and performance management.
• Maintain safe, clean and well‑presented library spaces.
• Deliver and promote services, events and programmes.
• Manage financial procedures and compliance checks.
• Support marketing, audience development and community engagement activities.
• Supervise volunteers and placements.
• Act as key holder and ensure emergency procedures are followed.
• Deputise for the Operations Manager when required.

If you require further information regarding this role please contact Louise Smith via email at Louise.Smith@durham.gov.uk to arrange an informal discussion about the role.

WHAT WILL I NEED?

You’ll be a confident communicator with strong leadership skills and a passion for community‑focused services. You’ll enjoy working across multiple sites, supporting staff, and helping customers feel welcome and valued.

You should hold a NVQ Level 3 or equivalent experience in a relevant discipline and a First Aid qualification or willingness to work towards it.

Please refer to the attached Person Specification for the full criteria.

INTERVIEWS

It is expected interviews will be held week commencing 18th May 2026.

OUR OFFER TO YOU

We offer a competitive rewards package that includes attractive salaries, a generous annual leave entitlement of 27 days (rising to 32 after five years’ continuous local government service), membership of the excellent contributory career average Local Government Pension Scheme, and a range of flexible working arrangements including hybrid working (home and office) where applicable. Explore the full range of rewards and benefits on our website.

EQUALITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION

We are a proud equal opportunities employer and believe a diverse workforce brings fresh ideas and drives service improvement. We welcome applications from everyone and make employment decisions based on skills and ability. As a Disability Confident Leader, we actively encourage applications from disabled and neurodivergent people and offer support throughout the recruitment process.

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