Reading Engagement Specialist

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

Auckland Council Libraries is one of the largest public library networks in the Southern Hemisphere, with 57 branches across the region.  You will be responsible for leading innovative reading programmes, practices, and projects that increase reading for pleasure and engagement with our lending collections.

This is a permanent full-time role of 40 hours per week, based at the Auckland Central City Library.

Te hiranga o tēnei mahi: Why this role matters

Reading Engagement is one of three teams within Libraries Public Engagement at Auckland Council Libraries who work to increase engagement with research, heritage and lending collections, equitably supporting literacy, lifelong learning, and reading for pleasure so that all Aucklanders can discover and benefit from our libraries. The Reading Engagement Specialist is a senior role and one of three positions responsible for curating, activating, and promoting lending collections to increase engagement.

Ngā kawenga matua: Key responsibilities

• Develop, plan and direct the execution of strategic regional reading programmes and promotions throughout Auckland Council’s entire library network.
• Grow awareness and use of our lending collections through strategic partnerships.
• Development of innovative programmes and practices for reader engagement.
• Monitor and evaluate the performance of reading engagement programmes to ensure their value to Council and Aucklanders.
• Provide expert guidance to community library staff to develop their confidence in reading engagement.
• Lead the development of reading engagement plans, timelines, performance measures, and deliverables, ensuring key milestones are clearly defined, progress is monitored, and any variances are escalated.

To view full position description: To view full position description: click here

He kōrero mōu: About you

This is an opportunity to add value from day one as a collaborative, well‑read professional with:

• 5+ years’ relevant library or reading engagement experience
• A relevant tertiary qualification (Level 7+) 
• Knowledge and experience of reading engagement programmes and practices
• Strong partnership and public engagement skills
• LIANZA professional registration or actively working towards
• Knowledge of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, te ao Māori, and tīkanga Māori

We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every requirement listed. What matters most is your ability to contribute to a collaborative, purpose-driven environment where diverse experiences are valued. We know that transferable skills can come from experience gained from outside of work.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer 

At Auckland Council, you will join a dynamic, supportive environment where your mahi (work) will directly impact the lives of over 1.7 million Aucklanders. We offer flexible working conditions, a focus on well-being, and a culture of continuous improvement.

We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We are accredited by GenderTick, a signatory of the Pride Pledge. These commitments reflect our ongoing efforts to create a workplace where all staff feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. 

Together, we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can all be proud of.

Additionally, as part of our Auckland Council Group, you will gain access to many benefits and discounts including:

• Option to buy an additional week’s annual leave
• Four weeks annual leave, plus an additional week after five years
• Additional day of leave for community activities
• Discounts on attractions such as the Maritime Museum, Auckland Zoo & Auckland Art Gallery
• Discounted Health & Life Insurance Policies
• Flexible and supportive work environment
• 3.5% KiwiSaver on top of your salary

As part of our organisation, please view a range of our: benefits

Application close date: Saturday 2nd May 11.59pm

Salary: We are expecting to appoint the successful candidate at a salary of $100-$110k, depending on skills and experience.

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.