Bookshop

Do you enjoy a good thriller? Or are you more a romantic? Our bookshop volunteers know where to find the poetry section, or the holiday reads, and love helping our visitors to find something they will enjoy. No experience is needed as full training is given.

Role title:                   Bookshop Volunteer

When:                          Volunteer shifts are 10:30am-1pm or 1-4pm daily

Where:                        The bookshop and books of remembrance in West Lodge 

How often:                As often as you like. Once a week or once a fortnight is suggested

How long:                  We’d like you to stay with us for at least three months, but there’s no obligation

Supervised by:        Public Engagement Manager

What we need you to do

  • As part of our service principles, making every visitor feel welcome, and being able to answer visitors’ questions about Arnos Vale
  • Having conversations with our customers about our products and thanking those who are making book donations.
  • Selling books and other donated items and processing these sales.
  • Keeping the shop clean and tidy, re-stocking books and keeping displays looks neat and tidy.
  • You are important in making sure things run as smoothly and safely as possible – this includes getting to know health and safety and evacuation procedures and being aware of overall security.
  • Being part of a team that may need to adapt and change in response to local needs, Arnos Vale Cemetery Trust priorities or changes to government guidelines.

What we need from you

You’ll share our love of nature, conservation and history, and be willing to learn about all the lovely books on offer. You’ll enjoy working with the public, and be able to respond appropriately to visitor enquiries, including from grieving relatives, dog-walkers, and tourists. You’ll be respectful to the cemetery and those remembered here.

You’ll be able to follow simple instructions and safety procedures, reporting any general maintenance issues and incidents, and maintain the organised storage of items. You’ll be willing to learn how to operate simple equipment and handle transactions and sales.

What we offer you in return

You’ll have the opportunity to make a valuable contribution to this special place and learn about the nature and history here. You’ll be part of a positive team of great people who all share a passion for the cemetery. You’ll gain valuable experience working in the bookshop, strengthening your people skills. Once you’ve attended 12 sessions, we’ll be able to provide you with a reference. We’ll provide full training – no experience is necessary – covering working safely and working the card machine. Discounts for volunteers are available in our café and gift shop and, from time to time, invitations to tours and events.

Interested in joining the team?

If you’re interested in joining the team of Bookshop Volunteers, please complete the short form below and we’ll get back to you soon.