Role Purpose:
To support Torfaen County Borough Council (TCBC) community services by offering time, skills, and enthusiasm by leading a reading group at Cwmbran Library and facilitating regular reading group sessions. You will help create a welcoming, inclusive environment for readers of all backgrounds and abilities, encouraging engagement, participation, and enjoyment of books and shared conversation.
Key Responsibilities:
- In liaison with the library’s book group Lead Officer, set up a new reading group at the library and arrange monthly sessions, including welcoming members and encouraging discussion
- Schedule meetings for the group and assist with the distribution of reading materials to group members. (All reading group books will be provided by the library service)
- Lead discussions at group meetings and encourage inclusive and respectful dialogue among group members
- Liaise regularly with the library’s book group Lead Officer to develop ideas for promoting the books discussed and for advice on session content
- Promote the reading group to new or potential members (optional)
- Set up the meeting space before each session and tidy away the resources afterwards
- Follow all Health and Safety procedures and report any issues to the library staff
Requirements:
- Be able to commit to regular attendance, typically once a month.
- Have an interest in reading and books and an awareness of the current book market and authors
- Be willing to engage with a diverse group of people and stimulate meaningful and relevant discussion
- Be reliable, punctual, and respectful of confidentiality
- Undertake a Disclosure Barring Service (DBS check, if required)
Skills & Experience (Desirable/Essential)
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills (Essential)
- Ability to work with a variety of people with the skills to inspire and encourage group participation (Essential)
- Friendly, approachable, and reliable nature (Essential))
- Ability to work proactively and independently (Desirable)
- Have a good level of literacy and a wide interest in reading and literature (Essential)
- To be able to hold an interesting conversation/discussion on the topics chosen (Essential)
- Awareness of health, safety, and safeguarding principles (Essential)
Support & Benefits:
- Full induction and relevant training provided
- Ongoing support and supervision
- Travel expenses reimbursed (subject to policy)
- Opportunity to gain experience, confidence, and new skills
- Certificate/reference upon request (after volunteering period)
- Risk Assessment will performed by Health and Wellbeing officer
Equal Opportunities:
Torfaen Council is committed to diversity and equal opportunities. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and communities, including those with disabilities or support needs.