Meet Gayle!

Senior Customer Services Assistant Gayle Middleton has shared her experiences to help attract others into two vacant roles based in Musselburgh and Tranent libraries.

Gayle, who features in the social media campaign says East Lothian Council is a great place to work.

“I really enjoy the variety of the work”, explains Gayle, who joined us full-time in 2019, after studying English at university. “I really like the variety of people I work with across the Customer Services and Libraries team and it’s a really supportive working environment.

“I’ve found being creative is a real asset, especially in facilitating the various art and craft groups in the library.”

She highlights how the role of local libraries has evolved, saying: “People often have an outdated and stereotypical image of libraries and librarians; nowadays libraries are a real hub for communities and are home to a variety of different activities appealing to diverse age-groups and interests. The staff in libraries don’t just have a love of books and reading, they deliver a wide range of services from helping people learn IT skills and complete online applications to council tax enquiries, rent payments, ordering bus passes and completing blue badge applications.” 

Working in the library is not without its challenges, Gayle explains. 

“Being located within a community can be difficult, especially when working with vulnerable groups, but I can always count on support from the rest of my team. Having a good knowledge of my local community certainly helps with signposting people towards groups and services.

“Due to the libraries opening hours, I work some evenings and the occasional Saturday,” she adds. “I also travel to other libraries and customer service buildings to provide cover when needed." 

Gayle says that it’s an excellent time to come on board and she highlights the part played by her team. 

“We’re so much more than just a library with books; we offer a range of services to the whole community – it’s great being part of the Customer Services and Libraries team."