iniva is looking to recruit several in-person volunteers to support our Stuart Hall Library, archives and wider programmes. This is a tailor-made volunteering experience to support personal interests in contemporary art and visual cultures and future professional interests working in libraries, archives or galleries.
Who is this for?
This volunteer opportunity would be invaluable for:
- individuals seeking experience before/after embarking on a professional qualification in library studies;
- those in the community, in retirement or students with an interest in international visual art and culture;
- students who have a research interest in Stuart Hall Library collections; and
- anyone looking to gain reception/front-of-house skills, public speaking skills, or bookshop experience.
What will you gain?
You will gain valuable insight into how a specialist research library collection is managed, organised and utilised in exhibitions and programming. You will learn to catalogue library material, reshelve books according to a classification system, repackage archival material for digitisation projects; and key research skills.
You will be able to provide library tours, assist with library enquires, create reading lists or presentations about a specific subject, provide event support and participate in for reading groups, artist talks, workshops, study days and conferences and contribute content for our blog and social media channels about our collections.
What skills do you need?
To gain the most from this opportunity, you will have the following skills:
- Knowledge of how to use library search catalogues is required;
- An explicit interest in libraries and library-related practises;
- Interest in the work and ethos of Iniva;
- A keen eye for detail;
- Great communication skills;
- Feel comfortable handling potentially fragile items;
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision;
- Have good IT skills and confident working in Microsoft Excel;
- Provide a high standard of regular and reliable attendance;
- Flexibly adapt to changing work requirements and;
- Be willing to undergo training to effectively carry out tasks.
Training
We require all volunteers to attend an 2-hour induction session and training regarding their tasks.
Expenses
Travel and lunch expenses up to £10 per day will be reimbursed by BACS transfer with a valid physical receipt.
Commitment
One day per week on Tuesdays and Wednesdays between the hours of 10am and 5pm for 3-6 months from November 2026.
How to apply?
Please email Davina Dhallu, Library Manager at library@iniva.org with a CV and up to 300 words explaining why you would like to volunteer at iniva? What skills you would like to gain? Which day and times are preferrable for you to volunteer?
Deadline
Thursday 15th October 2026.