Volunteer Opportunity: Bursaries Administrator, Music Libraries Trust

The Music Libraries Trust (MLT) is looking for a new Bursaries Administrator to help support the professional development of music library, archive, and information professionals across the UK.

Through its bursary programmes, MLT enables colleagues to attend the IAML (UK & Ireland) Annual Study Weekend and the IAML International Congress, providing opportunities for learning, networking, and professional growth that might otherwise be inaccessible. As Bursaries Administrator, you will play a key role in ensuring these opportunities continue to benefit both individuals and the music library community more widely.

This voluntary role offers an excellent opportunity to become more involved in the profession and expand your professional network. You will work with colleagues from libraries, archives, publishers and related organisations, gaining insight into professional activities across the sector while helping others develop their own careers.

Why volunteer?

As Bursaries Administrator, you will

  • Support colleagues in accessing valuable professional development and networking opportunities.

  • Develop experience in project coordination, communications, stakeholder engagement, and committee work.

  • Build relationships with professionals across the music library sector.

  • Make a tangible contribution to supporting the development of music library and information professionals.

What does the role involve?

The role centres on coordinating the Trust's bursary provision, including:

  • Liaising with potential sponsors and supporters in the sector.

  • Promoting bursary opportunities through mailing lists, websites, direct communications, and other channels.

  • Coordinating the application assessment process and acting as a point of contact for successful applicants.

  • Coordinating the collection and publication of conference reports from bursary recipients.

  • Reviewing and updating procedures and application materials as required.

  • Attending Music Libraries Trust meetings (currently three times a year) and providing a brief bursaries update.

Support and handover

The current post holder will provide a full handover and support during the transition into the role. We hope the successful volunteer will be able to take up the position as soon as possible.

How to find out more

If you would like an informal conversation about the role or would be interested in taking it on, please contact Richard Douglas, the current Bursaries Administrator (bursaries@musiclibrariestrust.org).