Library Manager – West Sussex County Council
We are looking for a Library Manager to oversee the day‑to‑day management of Shoreham, Lancing and Southwick libraries and their teams. The role requires exceptional people management skills, a strong understanding of library or customer service environments, and the ability to organise staff and resources effectively.
About the Job
Shoreham‑by‑Sea is a vibrant, bustling local library at the heart of our community, situated opposite the historic St Mary de Haura church. As a key member of our Key Management Team you will support staff, work closely with external and internal stakeholders and ensure the smooth and efficient operation of our libraries.
Responsibilities
* Demonstrate effective leadership by overseeing recruitment processes, coordinating staff training, managing performance reviews, and planning for appraisals. Handle complex employee relations situations, including monitoring sickness absence, and ensure appropriate application and implementation of relevant HR policies.
* Support the Lead Managers in the operational delivery of the library business plan.
* Participate actively in establishing and executing service priorities across libraries within the area by developing a Team Action Plan aligned with the Service Business Plan.
* Manage resource procurement within established budgets and authorise claims for salaries and travel expenses.
Required Qualifications and Skills
* Degree level qualification or equivalent relevant qualification, for example Chartered Librarian, qualified librarian or ACLIP (Affiliate Certified Library and Information Professional), or demonstrable experience demonstrating that level of numeracy and literacy.
* Knowledge and understanding of public library services, including a comprehensive awareness of various customer types and their specific needs.
* Familiarity with the operational requirements involved in the daily management of a library.
* Prior experience delivering a customer‑focused library service within established performance standards, preferably in a public library setting.
* Experience in managing and developing staff, both in supporting individual professional growth and fostering an effective team that collaborates to achieve objectives within specified timeframes.
Rewards and Benefits
We aim to create a supportive and dynamic working environment that rewards the work you do. Benefits include 27 days annual leave (rising to 28 days after five years’ service) with the option to purchase additional leave, an excellent local government pension scheme and access to a range of staff discounts.
Key Details
Salary: £36,363 to £39,152 per annum
Contract Type: Fixed‑term contract until 01 November 2027 (final start and end dates confirmed with successful candidate)
Working Pattern: Full‑time (37 hours per week)
Interview Date: Friday 19 December 2025
Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level
Employment type: Full‑time
Job function: Customer Service and Management
Industries: Government Administration and Community Services
Further Information
The reference number for this role is CPP01250.
Application Process
Click apply below, upload your CV, and complete the application form, explaining how you meet the key skills in the attached job description and the experience you can bring to the role. Please ensure any gaps in employment are covered in your CV.
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Equal Opportunity Statement
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. This post is subject to right to work within the UK, satisfactory references, and a health check.
Equity, inclusion, and accessibility are very important to West Sussex County Council. We welcome and encourage applications from everyone, and our recruitment process is flexible and supportive to enable all applicants to be at their best.
We operate a guaranteed interview scheme for applicants who have a disability, are a veteran, or are a care leaver. More information can be found on our application help page.
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