Job Title: Book Group Project Coordinator
Reports to: Head of Communities and Learning (with a dotted line to Director of Commissioning and Editorial)
Location: Calibre Audio Offices, Weston Turville, with hybrid working available. Book groups will take place in community venues (e.g. public libraries, community centres).
Contract: Part-time, 0.5 FTE (17.5 hours per week), fixed-term for 12 months
Salary: £12.60 per hour (Real Living Wage)
Introduction
Calibre Audio is a national charity that brings the joy of audiobooks to anyone who struggles to access print. We believe passionately that a print disability, or any difficulty in holding a book, should not be a barrier to the pleasure and enrichment of reading. Everyone, regardless of their circumstances, deserves to immerse themselves in a good book and unleash the power of their imagination.
We are launching new in-person book groups across Buckinghamshire to create welcoming, inclusive spaces where members can enjoy audiobooks together, connect with others, and share their experiences.
Main Purpose of the Role
The Book Group Project Coordinator will oversee the establishment and coordination of new Calibre Audio book groups, while supporting existing ones. They will ensure groups are well-organised, inclusive, and engaging, and will recruit and train volunteers to take on facilitation roles for sustainability.
Key Responsibilities
Book Group Development and Coordination
* Establish new in-person book groups in High Wycombe, Marlow, and Chesham, with support from the Head of Communities and Learning and the Director of Commissioning and Editorial.
* Provide administrative support to existing book groups in Aylesbury, Weston Turville, Great Missenden, Princes Risborough, and Wendover.
* Liaise with partner organisations and community venues to secure suitable locations for groups.
* Promote the groups locally to ensure good awareness and participation.
Group Facilitation and Support
* Organise and facilitate monthly book group meetings for adults with print disabilities (typically aged 40+).
* Select appropriate audiobook titles, considering members' preferences and ensuring access through Calibre membership.
* Prepare sessions with conversation starters, discussion questions, and relevant background materials (e.g. author biography, context).
* Lead engaging, respectful, and inclusive discussions where all members feel welcome to contribute.
* Resolve differing opinions constructively and ensure a safe, positive environment for participants.
Volunteer Recruitment and Training
* Identify, recruit, and train volunteers to become Book Group Facilitators, ensuring long-term sustainability of groups.
* Provide ongoing guidance and check-ins to support volunteers as they take over facilitation roles.
Monitoring and Evaluation
* Design and deliver surveys to assess the health, wellbeing, and social benefits of attending book groups.
* Gather feedback and report on outcomes to support project evaluation and funding requirements.
Person Specification
Essential Experience and Skills
* Experience in coordinating groups, clubs, or community activities.
* Excellent organisational skills and ability to work independently.
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
* Confidence in leading and facilitating discussions.
* Passion for audiobooks, literature, and reading.
* Ability to engage with diverse groups of people in an inclusive way.
Desirable
* Experience of recruiting, training, or supporting volunteers.
* Good research and computer skills (e.g. preparing background materials for group discussions).
* Understanding of the needs of people with print disabilities.
Work Environment
This is a hybrid role based at Calibre Audio's offices in Weston Turville, with the flexibility to work from home for administrative tasks. Book group meetings will be held in community venues such as libraries or community centres.
How to apply:
Send your CV and a short covering letter (max 2 pages) explaining your interest and relevant experience,
Job Types: Part-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 12 months
Pay: £11,466.00 per year
Expected hours: 17.5 per week
Benefits:
* Company pension
* Life insurance
* On-site parking
* Sick pay
* Store discount
Application question(s):
* Passion for audiobooks, literature, and reading
* Ability to engage with diverse groups of people in an inclusive way
* Excellent organisational skills and ability to work independently
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills
* Confidence in leading and facilitating discussions
Experience:
* coordinating groups, clubs, or community activities: 1 year (required)
Willingness to travel:
* 25% (required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Aylesbury HP22 5XQ