By Lucy Neill | 30 June 2026
Elisha Richmond recently completed a CareerStart placement with Suffolk Community Libraries. Elisha spent time working as both a Trainee Creative Producer with the Creative Communities team, and also as a Library and Information Advisor at Gainsborough Community Library in Ipswich
Elisha shares her thoughts on her placement and reflects on how getting to work in new environments has helped shape new perspectives on the communities which libraries serve.
Elisha’s Story
My name is Elisha and I’m a Trainee Creative Producer at Ipswich County Library and at Gainsborough Community Library.
I used to visit Gainsborough Community Library with my friends, and we enjoyed reading and exploring the library growing up, which is why I picked the library to apply to.
My favourite thing about Gainsborough Community Library is the people I have met and all the different things I get to do, especially exploring book collections and gathering reservations and recommendations for customers. I like when time flies by when you’re busy doing something you enjoy like working with the children and helping to run fun creative activities.
It’s been interesting to see how each library in Suffolk is different – I’ve spent time shadowing teams at libraries in Lowestoft, Haverhill and Bury St Edmunds and it’s great to see how things work behind the scenes. I have learnt that libraries offer so many things for both kids and adults, and so much for free!
I enjoy meeting new colleagues and helping people I meet at the counter, especially when classes from local schools visit and I get to help them explore the library and choose new books. Mostly I have enjoyed being part of a team and feeling like I belong working here.
It’s been tough to learn everything about the role but it’s also been an incredibly enjoyable and rewarding experience. I get to sit in on a lot of meetings and learn about everything the library service in Suffolk offers beyond books.
This role has helped to build up my confidence and has inspired me to truly be myself. In the future I would like to explore more library roles, especially at Gainsborough Community Library, but all the libraries are amazing places to be in.
“Watching Elisha grow in confidence and ability in her role has been a wonderful experience. She is keen to learn, willing to push herself outside of her comfort zone, and says a big ‘yes!’ to new experiences.
“Elisha will be a real asset to her next employer – they’ll be lucky to have her as part of the team!”
About CareerStart
The CareerStart programme was created by Suffolk Jobcentre Plus in partnership with Suffolk Community Libraries, New Wolsey Theatre, DanceEast, and Suffolk Archives to offer local people a paid placement within the creative sector. It is funded by Suffolk Supported Families and Suffolk County Council.
People entering the creative industry, especially those from economically and socially disadvantaged backgrounds, can struggle to find a foothold in this work due to a lack of connections and experience.
Through the CareerStart programme, people were able to access quality paid work experience to build their skills and confidence and support them into sustainable employment.
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