Library Operations Assistant (Full-time)

Library Operations Assistant (Full-time)
Jameel Arts Centre, Dubai

About the Role

Art Jameel is seeking a highly organised, detail-oriented individual to join our team as a  Library Operations Assistant. This role focuses on the day-to-day running of the Jameel Library, including visitor services, administrative duties, and operational support. The successful candidate will have a passion for books, strong communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

This is a public-facing administrative and operational role. While it offers opportunities to work closely with library collections and engage with the public, there is no planned scope for research, curation or programming within the current structure. The position is ideal for candidates comfortable with this focus and trajectory.

Start Date: Preferred by October 2025 (earlier start possible)
Applications remain open until the position is filled.

Key Responsibilities

Visitor Experience

• Welcome visitors to Jameel Library during scheduled shifts (Mon–Thu, 9:30am–6:30pm; Fri, 12:00pm–4:00pm).
• Handle in-person, phone, and email enquiries; direct visitors to relevant resources and communicate library policies.
• Provide information on the library’s collection, exhibitions, events, and amenities.
• Offer guided tours of the Library and its displays upon request.
• Address visitor feedback and escalate issues when necessary.
• Ensure visitors adhere to Library rules and regulations.

Operational Duties

• Oversee front desk functions: managing enquiries, monitoring library systems, locating and shelving books, and itemising materials.
• Monitor the Library for safety hazards and report concerns to relevant staff.
• Assist in opening and closing library displays and manage inventory.
• Support the supervision and training of library volunteers.
• Assist with special events, including registration, front desk staffing, and tours.
• Stay informed about exhibitions and events to provide accurate visitor information.

Administrative Support

• Perform data entry, cataloguing, and database upkeep.
• Manage incoming and outgoing mail, deliveries, and correspondence.
• Coordinate finance-related tasks for acquisitions and operations.
• Monitor the library’s operating system and update records.
• Support inventory management and storage processes.

Requirements

• Open to candidates of all nationalities currently based in the UAE. 
• Prior experience in customer service, hospitality, or a related field preferred.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Google Workspace or similar software.
• Ability to work in a detail-oriented environment, manage multiple tasks and set/ follow timelines.
• Flexibility to work occasional evenings, weekends, and public holidays (with time off in lieu).

Preferred Training and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Library and Information Science, Business Administration, Office Administration, Museum Studies, Cultural Management or a related field.
• Or equivalent professional experience: 3–5 years in library services, museum or gallery visitor services, cultural institutions or administration.

Working Conditions

• Based at Jameel Arts Centre, Dubai.
• Full-time, four-and-a-half-day work week as per UAE regulations (Mon–Thu, 9:30am–6:30pm; Fri, 12:00pm–4:00pm).
• Friday hours are fixed.
• Public holiday coverage with compensatory leave.

Benefits

• Full-time work permit and Visa.
• 25 Annual Leave days (10 of which are scheduled in the annual Jameel Arts Centre Closure in late August)
• Health insurance.
• Opportunity to work in a collaborative learning environment