Library Services Operations Manager
Please apply online via the link provided.
Please note, we do not accept CVs submitted without a fully completed online application form.
We have a great opportunity for a Library Services Operations Manager on a full time, permanent basis.
At Bracknell Forest, we pride ourselves on being a council which is stable and well-managed where our employees can thrive in a supportive environment. We understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance.
About you...
Are you a dynamic and community-focused professional with a strong track record of managing operational teams in a library or public service setting?
We are looking for a Library Services Operations Manager who can…
- lead and proactively drive the operational management of the council’s library services, developing and delivering efficient services aligned with the council’s strategic objectives.
- foster a culture of community engagement and develop libraries as vibrant community hubs, promoting accessibility, learning, cultural activities, and digital inclusion.
About the team...
This is an exciting time to join the Bracknell Forest Library Service as we look to develop our libraries into hubs for our communities.
The service consists of 9 libraries, supported by a team of senior librarians, library assistants and volunteers.
You will be one of two Library Services Operations Managers, and you will work closely with your colleague in managing and developing our services. Together, you will be operationally responsible for the 9 libraries and will lead the team todeliver our core offers and a wide-ranging events programme, whilst looking for opportunities to expand and improve our services.
Whilst you will be based at Bracknell Library, you will be required to travel and work from all 9 libraries.
Key responsibilities...
- Operational management and service delivery: Ensure the effective day-to-day running of library services, including staff and volunteer supervision across multiple community hub locations. Allocate staffing resources efficiently to meet community demands and ensure high-quality customer service is consistently provided.
- Community library hub development: Lead the development of libraries as community hubs, ensuring they serve as inclusive spaces for learning, cultural exchange, and community engagement. Work closely with local community groups and partners to host events and support community activities.
- Digital transformation: Drive the integration of digital tools and services into library operations to enhance accessibility and customer experience. Promote digital literacy initiatives and work in partnership with the Head of Digital Change and Service Improvement to support the council's digital agenda.
- Service improvement and performance monitoring: Develop initiatives to enhance library services based on data analysis and community feedback. Monitor and report on service performance to ensure continuous improvement and alignment with council goals.
- Customer experience management: Foster a customer-centric culture, ensuring library staff and volunteers are focused on delivering a high-quality customer experience. Address escalated customer issues promptly and use feedback to drive service improvements.
Our benefits...
- 28 days annual leave increasing to 33 days after 3 years’ continuous service, with the opportunity to buy up to 10 and sell up to 5 days.
- Hybrid working opportunities to support your wellbeing and work-life balance.
- Paid employee volunteering scheme.
- Local government pension scheme, with life insurance cover.
- Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme (subject to eligibility).
- Reimbursement of one annual professional subscription/registration.
- Career development through internal and external training opportunities.
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption and fostering leave.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support your health and wellbeing
- Inclusive and social working environment with a variety of staff networks and a sports and social club.
Find out more about all our benefits or see the candidate pack.
Our values...
At Bracknell Forest Council our values define who we are and what is important to us. Our core values are inclusive, ambitious, and always learning. These values influence the way we work with each other and the way we serve our residents and engage with our communities. We make our values real by demonstrating them in how we behave every day. If you are excited about joining a diverse team that celebrates learning and strives for excellence, we would love to hear from you.
Reasonable adjustments...
We are committed to ensuring an inclusive recruitment process for all applicants. If you require any reasonable adjustments to support your application or interview, please let us know by contacting recruitment@bracknell-forest.gov.uk. We will work with you to support you throughout the process. Find out more about reasonable adjustments.
Interview date
Interviews will be held on Thursday 6 November 2025
Interviews will be conducted in person, providing candidates with the chance to personally meet the team and experience our work environment.
We will be reviewing applications regularly and reserve the right to close the advert early if suitable candidates are identified. To avoid disappointment, you are advised to submit your application as soon as possible.
Please note AI is prohibited during the interview, any candidate using AI will be withdrawn from consideration.
Want to ask us a question?
For an informal discussion or to ask any questions about this role, please contact:
Toni Ball, Head of Customer Services, Libraries and Culture - Tel.:01344 352000
or
Sharon Sandford, Library Services Operations Manager - Tel.: 07825208163
or
Email: ls.mangerment@bracknell-forest.gov.uk
Bracknell Forest Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect everyone employed with us to share this commitment. All successful candidates for this role will be subject to a DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service) check as part of our pre-employment checks process.
We can only accept applications from candidates currently residing in the UK.
Candidates currently residing in the UK who require sponsorship to work are encouraged to assess their eligibility for a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) based on the relevant criteria. Please be aware that sponsorship availability varies and is subject to eligibility requirements and budget limitations. As a result, we cannot guarantee sponsorship for all roles and will evaluate sponsorship requests on a case-by-case basis.
No agencies please.
Salary range
- £37,092 - £41,506 per year