Self Service Support Volunteer

Purpose of the Role:

This role is all about making a difference in your local library during self-service hours—when no staff are on site. As a volunteer, you’ll be a friendly and reassuring presence, helping customers find what they need, answering simple questions, and making sure the library stays a welcoming, safe, and accessible space for everyone.

By giving a bit of your time, you’ll play a key part in keeping Sutton’s libraries open and thriving—ensuring that the community can continue to enjoy vital resources, services, and a space to learn, connect and explore.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide a friendly and approachable presence in the library during self-service hours.

  • Support customers with:

    • Using self-service machines to borrow, return, and renew items.

    • Logging in to and using public computers, printing and accessing free Wi-Fi.

    • Finding books or resources using the online catalogue.

    • Answering basic questions about library services and facilities.

  • Refer more complex queries to staff using designated methods.

  • Help to maintain a welcoming and safe space.

  • Promote awareness of upcoming Cultural Services events or services when appropriate.

  • Record any incidents or issues and report them according to guidance.

  • Represent Sutton’s Cultural Services in a professional and supportive way.

  • Volunteers are never expected to handle emergencies or challenging situations alone. A clear support system and remote staff contact are in place.

What We’re Looking For:

  • A welcoming and helpful attitude.

  • Confidence working independently and engaging with members of the public.

  • Basic IT skills and willingness to learn library applications.

  • Reliability and good communication skills.

  • Willingness to follow procedures and attend initial training.

What We Offer:

  • Full training for the role

  • Ongoing support from Sutton Libraries staff and the Volunteer Coordinator.

  • A chance to meet new people and give back to the local community.

  • The opportunity to gain valuable experience in a public service environment.

 

Availability

Volunteer hours are flexible and subject to mutual agreement. The designated days and library sites available for this role are listed below.



  • Cheam Library: Mondays, Tuesdays, Saturdays and Sundays

 

  • Circle Library: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays

 

  • Library at the Phoenix Centre: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays

 

  • Library at the Sutton Life Centre: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays

 

  • Library at the Westcroft Centre: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays

 

  • Wallington Library: Mondays and Sundays


Worcester Park Library: Mondays, Thursdays and Sundays