INTERVIEW


Ambreen and Hannah – our apprentice journey


When Kirklees Libraries recruited two new Library Apprentices, Ambreen Aziz and Hannah Armitage, they agreed to share their experiences with Information Professional readers. Here, in their final piece as apprentices they look back on the highlights and challenges.


CAN you briefly re-introduce yourselves. Ambreen: Hi, my name is Ambreen and I am a 25-year-old (I know a bit older than the traditional age) library apprentice for Kirklees Libraries. I am based in the north of Kirklees (Dewsbury Library) and have been doing the apprenticeship since Sep- tember 2020.


Hannah: I’m Hannah a Library Apprentice­


Kirklees Libraries.


Thinking back to your application for Kirklees’ apprenticeships scheme can you talk us through the decision process. What elements attracted you to an apprenticeship as opposed to other routes into libraries? Hannah:­After­finishing­college­early­in­ March 2020 due to the lockdown, I started to think about which profession I would like to work in. When looking through the Kirklees jobs site I came across the Library Apprentice role and as I started reading through the description, I thought this is right up my street! I’d never thought of working in libraries before. Whilst at college, I had pictured myself doing Graphic Design and had only thought libraries were a place for books. I didn’t wish to go to university, I wanted to expand my skills and knowledge by getting some hands-on expe- rience, and I felt an apprenticeship would be right for me.


32 INFORMATION PROFESSIONAL DIGITAL ­and­Customer­Service­Officer­for­


Rob Green (rob.green@cilip.org.uk) is Editor, Information Professional.


Ambreen: The selection process included an application and two interview stages: one with the library and one with the college. As­soon­as­I­lay­my­eyes­on­the­job­profile,­ I­knew­it­was­the­perfect­fit­for­me.­What­ could be better than getting paid to pursue your passion. Being a single parent, it was a good opportunity to establish my career in something I was passionate about without worrying­about­finances.


As an apprentice, what did you find most rewarding? Ambreen: The most rewarding part for myself as a Kirklees Library apprentice has been­being­able­to­make­a­physical­differ- ence and raising awareness for marginalised communities. From taking part in Black History Month to highlighting men’s mental


July-August 2022


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