The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required for this job have also been included.
Based at: Flexible options: Delivering services across supported prison libraries according to operational needs.
Salary details: Grade 6, £26,403 - £27,255 pro-rata for part-time working (pay award pending)
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Part time, 18.5 per week (Monday, Tuesdays all day and Friday mornings only)
Closing date: 7th June 2026
Enhanced with barred list DBS Disclosure is required for appointment to this post.
Do you want to work in a job which makes a difference to the local community and the people who live there? Working for the City of Doncaster Council as a Prison Library Advisor could be perfect for you.
The Prison Libraries Team provides library services and delivers national initiatives to support prisons in their Reading Strategy and reducing re-offending. We are looking for someone to join our team to assist with day-to-day operations.
Our organisation is committed to safe and fair recruitment, safeguarding and protecting those we care for and serve. We make sure all our staff are vetted, selected, trained and supervised fairly and to a high standard so that they can provide safe, effective and compassionate care.
Duties include:
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Supporting the delivery of an effective prison library service in line with current contractual requirements and performance targets.
- Actively engaging with men in custody to deliver and assist in the further development of a service that promotes creativity, literacy, reading for pleasure, and supports lifelong learning.
- Working collaboratively with colleagues to maintain and enhance established library services that contribute to the provision of purposeful activity across the prison.
- Supporting, promoting, and encouraging prisoner engagement with reading, including contributing to the development and delivery of the Reading Strategy, helping to support both the prison and individuals in addressing the Reducing Re‑Offending agenda and support rehabilitation.
Duties require excellent communication and problem-solving skills with the ability to engage positively with both prisoners and staff.
Further information on the responsibilities and requirements for this role can be found in the job profile and role summary.
What you will bring to the role:
We value a range of experiences and skills. If you have transferable skills from other roles or voluntary work, we encourage you to apply.
Details on what it is like working for us:
Working in a prison library is both challenging and rewarding, offering the opportunity to make a meaningful difference every day. The service is built on strong values of respect, fairness, and rehabilitation, with a clear commitment to inclusivity and equal access for all prisoners.
In return for your contribution, we offer:
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Competitive leave entitlement
- Generous local government pension scheme
- Wellbeing support and staff networks
- Development and training opportunities
- Staff discounts and benefits schemes
- More information on benefits can be found in the attached benefits booklet.
Please review the job summary and profile and demonstrate in your application how you meet the required criteria.
Shortlisting will take place week commencing on 8th June 2026 and interviews are anticipated on 17th June 2026.
We encourage applicants to use their own words to reflect their experience and skills and over-reliance on AI is discouraged.
The Advance Employment Team offers personalised support to help you take your next step into work. From building your CV and getting the right interview skills to accessing a wide range of free courses, the team will help you grow your skills and confidence and find a job you’ll enjoy. Get in touch by email (
[email protected]) or visit the Advance website (www.advancedoncaster.co.uk) to discover the support available.
This post involves working with adults and therefore if successful you will be required to apply for a Disclosure and Barring Service check at an enhanced level. Further information about the Disclosure Scheme and can be found at www.gov.uk/disclosure-barring-service-check.
City of Doncaster Council is committed to meeting the needs of our diverse community and improving quality of life for all. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences and are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and adults.
We are a Disability Confident employer and committed to a fully inclusive and accessible recruitment process. We offer interviews to disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria and make reasonable adjustments as required.
