Position of Chief Librarian

Job description

Advert for the Position of Chief Librarian – Unicaf University Zambia

Job Opportunity: Chief Librarian

Are you passionate about academic excellence, resource management, and leading innovation in library services and management? Unicaf University Zambia is seeking a qualified and visionary Chief Librarian to spearhead its library operations and support teaching, learning, and research across the institution both off-line and online.

Location: Lusaka, Zambia Application Deadline: 13/11/2026

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement the library’s strategic plan to support academic goals.

• Lead the library team, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

• Represent the library in accreditation, quality assurance reviews, and HEA audits.

• Advocate for library services and resources to university leadership and external stakeholders including ZALICO.

2. Collection Development and Resource Management

• Oversee the acquisition, management, and evaluation of library collections to support diverse academic programs.

• Ensure a balance between print and digital resources, aligning with the needs of students and researchers.

3. Academic and Research Support

• Collaborate with faculty to integrate library resources into teaching and research.

• Develop and implement information literacy programs to support students and faculty in using library resources effectively.

• Provide research assistance, including access to digital databases and research tools.

• Facilitate advanced research support, including tailored consultations and workshops.

4. Operations and Compliance

• Ensure the library operates in compliance with HEA standards and accreditation requirements.

• Plan, recruit, and develop library staff to maintain high standards of service delivery.

• Oversee library operations, including e-library systems, physical facilities, and user services.

• Manage library opening hours to maximize accessibility.

5. Community and Campus Engagement

• Establish partnerships with external libraries and research institutions for resource sharing.

• Promote library services through outreach and communication initiatives.

• Represent the library at university and national-level forums.

Qualifications and Skills

• Full Grade 12 school certificate or its equivalent

• Bachelor’s Degree in Library and Information Science

• Masters in Library and Information Studies or any other relevant field from a reputable university.

• A PhD in either will be an added advantage.

• At least five (5) years of relevant professional experience in a university, academic, research, or comparable library/information services environment, of which at least two (2) years should be at a managerial or senior supervisory level.

• Should be a member of relevant professional Association

Competencies

• Strong IT skills and familiarity with the use of databases and the internet

• Team working and management skills

• Assessment of resources and library users’ needs

• Presentation and verbal communication skills

• High level of planning and organizational skills

• Strong interpersonal skills

• Passionate to conduct research

• Should be able to work under minimum supervision and able to multitask

Why Join Unicaf University Zambia?

• Be a pivotal part of an institution committed to academic success.

• Collaborate with a vibrant team of educators, researchers, and professionals.

• Opportunity to shape the future of academic resource management.

Application Procedure
Apply today by submitting your resume and cover letter to: vacancies@zambia.unicaf.org Join us in empowering education through innovation and excellence!