University Librarian

Job description

JOB ADVERT – UNIVERSITY LIBRARIAN

Cavendish University Zambia is seeking a University Librarian who will be responsible for the acquisition, organization, management, and distribution of library resources, ensuring that the library services adequately meet the needs of all users.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Manage the planning, administrative, and budgetary functions of Library and Information Services

Establish and implement policies and procedures for library and information services
Develop and oversee convenient and accessible library and information services
Establish and manage the budget for library and information services, technology, and media
Develop and manage cost-effective library and information services, technology, and media
Order materials and maintain records for invoice payments
Analyze and evaluate the requirements for library and information services, technology, and media
Prepare reports concerning library and information services, technology and media services, resources, and activities

2. Provide effective access to library collections and resources

Develop and maintain policies and procedures for collections management
Perform original cataloguing and classification of print, audio-visual, and electronic resources
Develop and maintain special indexing systems and files for unique collections

3. Maintain the organization of library materials

Ensure an accurate inventory of resources
Ensure efficient retrieval by users
Search external database programs for the availability of cataloguing copies
Maintain inventories, compile statistics, and generate reports as necessary
Develop and maintain cataloguing procedures
Distribute materials for cataloguing
Determine the type of cataloguing required
Enter cataloguing data into the library’s automated system
Process resources for shelf placement
File cards in the shelf list
Complete cataloguing records when only partial copies are available
Index materials for the pamphlet collection

4. Provide library services in response to the information needs of library users

Address daily on-site inquiries for information.
Educate library users on how to efficiently navigate the Library catalogue, the internet, and other electronic resources.
Provide interlibrary services as needed.
Offer an interlibrary loan service for both books and audiovisual materials while keeping accurate records.
Keep detailed records for the interlibrary loan service.
Maintain circulation files, records, and statistics.

5. Management of Personnel

Ensure the implementation of the University’s human resource policies and procedures when overseeing library staff.
Manage staff performance in a manner that aligns with the University’s expectations. Key result areas will be defined, performance objectives established, and performance indicators agreed upon at the start of each financial year.
Provide staff with the necessary support to enable their full contribution to library services and the development of their skills and experience.
Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and respect both within the department and in alignment with the University’s Core Values.
Ensure that students are appropriately involved in various decision-making processes within the Library Department.
Guarantee a safe and healthy environment for both staff and students, ensuring full compliance with health and safety regulations.

6. Any other duties as may be assigned by the Vice- Chancellor

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor of Library and Information Sciences or equivalent from an accredited University
Master of Library and Information Sciences or equivalent from an accredited University
PhD (or PhD Candidate) in Library and Information Sciences or equivalent from an accredited University an added advantage
Minimum three (3) years’ senior-level work experience in a University Library
Strong knowledge of library management systems, digital resources, and emerging technologies
Familiarity with cataloguing and classification standards
Demonstrated leadership abilities and the ability to motivate and guide a team
Member of the Library and Information Association of Zambia (LIAZ) or Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals

COMPETENCIES AND ATTRIBUTES

Commitment to providing exceptional customer service and promoting information literacy
Demonstrated leadership abilities and the ability to motivate and guide a team
Strong organizational skills
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, verbally and in writing
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks
Excellent IT skills and proficiency in the use of databases, library software systems and the internet
Excellent Presentation skills
Excellent data analysis skills (including high degree of proficiency in MSExcel)
Ability to assess resources and library needs
Ability and willingness to work, manage and supervise Library operations on an extended hours basis
Ability to work independently
Problem analysis and solving skills
Ability to maintain confidentiality related to sensitive information
Demonstrated commitment to learning and self-development

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Interested candidates should forward an application letter, together with an up-to-date Curriculum Vitae, certified copy of valid identification document and certified copies of ZAQA-validated relevant academic and professional certificates via email to: hr@cavendish.co.zm with the Job Title as the Email Subject; OR hand-delivered to the HR office at Cavendish University Zambia, Corner of Washama and Great North Roads, Villa Elizabetha, Lusaka.

Closing date for receipt of applications is Friday, 3rd October  2025.