I’m a reader development officer.  My job is to organise reader events and author visits in libraries, working with publishers and literature festivals.  I work with local poets and writers, editing and publishing collections of their poetry. 

There’s lots of variety in reader development – you could be with a crime writer in a women’s prison one day then sorting out a poetry tea for 150 people the next.  Or maybe a live music event, storytelling, graffiti workshops, a farmers’ market with verse, it can and does all happen in libraries!

You don’t need an English degree.  I volunteered in a school library, and chose books for elderly readers at my local branch.  Working as a library assistant and running a reading group got me started on my career.  I did get a librarian qualification after a couple of years and really enjoyed the part-time course.

You do need good people skills, a passion for books, lots of creativity, energy and enthusiasm. 

Does this sound like you?

Then what are you waiting for?