Library Volunteer
iniva (Institute of International Visual Arts)
Support Stuart Hall Library: shelving, cataloguing, tours, events, social media. No experience neede
Join the Stuart Hall Library team and help care for one of the UK’s most important collections, celebrating diverse art, culture, and heritage. As a volunteer, you’ll assist with shelving, organising books, greeting visitors, giving short tours, helping at events, and creating blog or social media posts. No experience needed – we provide full training. A great chance to meet people, gain skills, and get experience in a friendly library. Commitment is one day a week for 6-12 months, with flexible scheduling to suit you. If you’re interested in art, books or community, we want to hear from you.
Administration,Art & Design,IT, Technology & Websites,Practical Work & DIY,Events & Stewarding
Basic IT skills - internet & email, Reading & Writing
Minimal Skills and Qualities Needed -Friendly and welcoming, with clear spoken English to greet visitors and answer basic questions. -Able to read and understand shelf labels, catalogue records, and instructions. -Able to write short notes, complete simple forms, or draft brief blog/social media content. -Basic organisation skills to keep shelves tidy and follow systems. -Attention to detail to ensure books are stored and recorded correctly. -Willingness to learn new tasks through training. -Reliable in attending agreed volunteer shifts.
As a volunteer, you will: -Gain practical experience in a working library and archive environment. -Learn new skills in cataloguing, collections care, and public engagement. -Build confidence in speaking with visitors and working as part of a team. -Enhance your CV with experience in the arts, heritage, and cultural sectors. -Meet artists, researchers, and others passionate about art and culture. -Contribute to preserving and sharing important stories from diverse communities. -Enjoy a friendly, supportive environment where your contribution is valued. -Access training and development opportunities provided by iniva.
The Stuart Hall Library is open Tuesday to Friday, 10am–5pm, with occasional evening events throughout the year. Volunteer shifts will normally take place during opening hours, but there may be opportunities to help at evening events if you’re interested. We ask volunteers to commit to one day per week for 12 months. Days are flexible and agreed in advance to fit around your schedule.
SW1P 4JU
iniva 16 John Islip Street London SW1P 4JU
How to Find Us – iniva, John Islip Street, London Underground: Pimlico (5 mins walk) or Vauxhall (10 mins walk). From either, head to John Islip Street; look for Relish café and Chelsea College of Arts (UAL). iniva is in Block D behind the black railings. Bus: Routes 88, C10, 87, N87 stop nearby. Ferry: Millbank Pier; walk past Tate Britain to Atterbury Street, then John Islip Street. Car: Limited parking; nearest car parks at Q-Park Victoria and Q-Park Pimlico.
2
