We welcome volunteers from all walks of life and are especially keen to involve people from communities underrepresented in the arts and heritage sector. Whether you’re starting out, changing career, or simply want to give back, you’ll be part of a supportive and creative team at the heart of iniva’s work.
The Stuart Hall Library is one of the UK’s most important collections celebrating the work and histories of artists from African, Asian, Caribbean and other diasporic backgrounds. It’s a place for research, learning and community connection – and we’d love you to be part of it.
About the Role
As a volunteer, you’ll help keep the library running smoothly and ensure visitors have a great experience. You don’t need any previous library or archive experience – we’ll give you all the training you need. An interest in a career in libraries or the heritage sector is welcome, but not essential.
What you’ll be doing:
• Shelving and organising books, journals and other materials
• Greeting visitors and giving short tours
• Helping at public events and workshops
• Assisting with cataloguing and simple data entry
• Creating short blog or social media posts to share our work
Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For
You don’t need specialist skills, just:
• A friendly and welcoming approach, with clear spoken English to greet visitors and answer questions
• Ability to read shelf labels, follow instructions and complete simple written tasks
• Willingness to learn new things and follow guidance
• Attention to detail to keep the collection tidy and organised
• Reliability in attending agreed shifts
What You’ll Gain
Volunteering with us is a chance to:
• Gain practical experience in a working library
• Learn new skills in cataloguing, collections care and public engagement
• Build confidence in speaking with visitors and working in a team
• Meet artists, researchers and others passionate about art and culture
• Enhance your CV and explore future opportunities in the arts and heritage sector
• Be part of preserving and sharing important stories from diverse communities
• Work in a friendly, supportive environment where your contribution is valued
• Access training and development opportunities provided by iniva
Time Commitment
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, with optional opportunities to help at evening events. We ask for one day a week for 6-12 months, with days agreed in advance to fit your schedule.
Access Information
We are committed to creating a space where everyone feels safe, respected and able to take part fully. If you have a disability or access requirements, we will work with you to make any adjustments needed.
Venue: Stuart Hall Library, iniva is located within Chelsea College of Arts, 16 John Islip Street, London SW1P 4JU.
• Step-free access with wheelchair-friendly pathways and doorways (some areas may be narrow)
• Nearest step-free Underground: Pimlico (Victoria Line), 5–7 mins walk
• Drop-off points and limited Blue Badge parking nearby
• Accessible toilets on the first floor and ground floor of the building; nearest Changing Places toilet at Tate Britain (120m)
Expenses
We reimburse travel and lunch expenses up to £10 per day (with receipts).
How to Apply
To apply, please email your CV (PDF) and a short statement (max 300 words) telling us why you’d like to volunteer, what you hope to gain, and your preferred days/times.
Email: library@iniva.org
We particularly welcome applications from people from Black and Global Majority backgrounds, as well as those who have faced barriers to working in the arts, heritage and cultural sectors.
Deadline
Friday 29 August 2025, 5pm
Getting Here
- Underground: Pimlico (5 mins walk) or Vauxhall (10 mins walk). Head to John Islip Street, look for Relish café and Chelsea College of Arts – iniva is in Block D behind the black railings.
- Bus: 88, C10, 87, N87 stop nearby.
- Ferry: Millbank Pier – short walk past Tate Britain.
- Car: Limited parking; nearest car parks at Q-Park Victoria and Q-Park Pimlico.