About us

Suffolk Libraries is a charity which has run Suffolk’s library service since August 2012.

We have kept all of Suffolk’s libraries open. There are 45 libraries now, even more libraries now than there were in 2012, plus three mobile libraries covering hundreds of stops in rural areas and three pop-up weekly library sessions. We also provide the gateway to our extensive free eLibrary service.  Suffolk Libraries works hard to develop new and innovative services and activities at the heart of Suffolk’s communities. Our Library staff are empowered to identify what local people need and adapt what they offer to meet this.

Our libraries have come into their own during the cost of living crisis as warm and welcoming places. There is something for everyone and almost everything on offer is free and easy to access, so a visit to the library can make a real difference in easing the pressure on people’s pockets. We’re the only library service in the UK with a dedicated wellbeing service, providing drop-ins, reading lists and links to other resources to help you with your wellbeing.

As well as the thousands of books on offer, you can get online for free in every library and thousands of people rely on this to get online to apply for jobs and benefits or simply to stay in touch with loved ones.  Every library offers regular activities for young children which, as well as helping to develop literacy and social skills, also prove a vital lifeline for parents too. There are sessions for over 55s offering a range of social activities which tackle isolation and offer an opportunity to meet new people - as well as plenty more to get involved in for people of all ages. 

Volunteering 

Volunteering for Suffolk Libraries is very rewarding and social experience.

Our volunteers play a vital part in supporting the library service and the services and activities we provide to local people. They do not replace paid staff, but work alongside them in a wide range of roles.

What volunteers do at Suffolk Libraries

There are many volunteering opportunities to get involved with, including:

• Helping to reduce social isolation through our Explore Together service
• Supporting children's literacy by helping run the Reading Quest
• Getting involved with our libraries' community or their Members Groups by helping to run fundraising events and community outreach projects
• Supporting many of our events and activities
• Delivering books to elderly or disabled people in their homes through our Home Library Service.

Benefits of volunteering with Suffolk Libraries

Research shows that when you give your time to others, there are benefits for you as well.

• You'll meet dynamic, friendly people, make new friends and help inspire and support others
• Choose from a diverse range of opportunities and activities
• Learn new skills and get great experience for your CV
• Help strengthen your local community.

Interested in getting involved? Take a look at our latest volunteer roles.

Work with us

We have a real impact on people’s wellbeing across Suffolk and our libraries are at the heart of their communities. Our staff help to run a huge variety of activities and services, and provide help and information to thousands of people every day.

Our vision is to “transform lives through access to knowledge and resources, promote lifelong learning and strengthen communities by meeting their evolving needs”.

No day working for Suffolk Libraries is the same. If you share this vision and want to join our team, we are regularly recruiting for a variety of roles.

Training
All new employees receive a thorough induction, giving you the skills and knowledge required to fulfil your role. There is access to a wide range of opportunities and training courses to enable you to learn and develop yourself and your career.
Our check-in process allows you to identify, discuss and review learning opportunities and projects to support your continuous development.

Health & Wellbeing
Our wellbeing framework is at the heart of our organisation, it underpins everything we do to support our employees’ health and wellbeing. We have a group of Wellbeing Champions who work with our staff to integrate health and wellbeing in our day-to-day activities to create a positive culture where this is embedded across our workforce. Our Wellbeing Champions help tackle mental health stigma, improve wellbeing among staff and promote healthy living. They organise events, signpost staff and can provide a listening ear.

Employee Benefits
Suffolk Libraries offers a fantastic employment package that includes:

• ‍21 days of annual leave rising with each year of continuous service to a total of 27
• Flexible working arrangements
• Emphasis on work/life balance
• Family friendly schemes to help manage family commitments
• Enhanced pension
• Life assurance
• Group income protection
• Cycle to work scheme
• Employee assistance programme which includes counselling, legal advice, nutritionist, GP appointments and stop smoking support
• Discounts on high street shops
• Career pathways and developmental opportunities
• Health and wellbeing framework

We make the lives of thousands of Suffolk people better by providing safe, fun and inspiring spaces and services. Join a modern, forward-thinking library service!