Librarian at Mzuzu University

MZUZU UNIVERSITY
JOB VACANCY
LIBRARIAN
(RE-ADVERTISEMENT)

About Mzuzu University
Mzuzu University (MZUNI) is one of Malawi’s public universities established by the Laws of Malawi Cap 30:09 (Mzuzu University Act No. 12 of 1997). Currently, the University has six faculties of Education; Environmental Sciences; Health Sciences; Tourism, Hospitality and Management; Science, Technology and Innovation; and Humanities and Social Sciences. It is a dual mode University offering its courses through face-to-face and open, distance and e-learning (ODeL) teaching and
learning modes.

MZUNI has its main campus located in Mzuzu City at Luwinga which also houses its ODeL Main Hub. It has a Tourism and Hospitality Skills Application Centre located at Dunduzu within the City. MZUNI has a physical presence in all the four regions of Malawi through its purpose built and well equipped ODeL Satellite Learning Centres in Karonga, Lilongwe, Balaka and Mulanje.

Given its multi-campus/centre nature and its expansion drive, the University offers a unique opportunity to its Librarian in coordinating library services across all campuses and centers of the University.

The Librarian
The Librarian reports to the Vice-Chancellor and is responsible for provision of leadership and strategic direction in the management of library and information services.

Applications are therefore invited for this exciting and demanding position of Librarian.

Duties and Responsibilities
The Librarian is required to fulfil the following duties and responsibilities, inter-alia:

(a) Leadership and Management

1. Providing strategic leadership and overall management of the University’s library and information services;
2. Developing, implementing, monitoring and reviewing library and information management strategies, policies, procedures and regulations;
3. Initiating the introduction, implementation and scaling-up of emerging Library and Information Technologies, including e-library services to library and related support services;
4. Planning and budgeting for activities for the library and information services;
5. Providing technical advice on library and information services to Management, line managers and users;
6. Ensuring that the University complies with local and international library and information services regulations and standards;
7. Ensuring the availability of effective and efficient mechanisms for staff and student utilization of library resources to facilitate knowledge acquisition, research support, and boost the output of reputable publications;
8. Ensuring that the library stocks the most relevant resources to support the current and future academic and research
   programming of the University;
9. Coordinating orientation sessions for library users;
10. Managing risks associated with library and information services;
11. Preparing and presenting financial, investment and other reports;
12. Coordinating performance management system in the Library; and
13. Servicing relevant committees in the University.

(b) Resource Mobilization

1. Mobilizing and managing library resources efficiently and effectively; and
2. Conducting research and consultations.

(c) Networking
Establishing effective partnerships and collaborations with local and international stakeholders to continuously improve library and information services at the University.

Qualifications

The candidate must have:

1. Master’s Degree in Library and Information Sciences or any related fields obtained from a reputable and accredited institution of higher learning recognized by the National Council for Higher Education, plus ten (10) years’ experience in managing an academic library at senior management level;
   OR
2. PhD in Library and Information Sciences or any related fields obtained from a reputable and accredited institution of higher learning recognized by the National Council for Higher Education, plus eight (8) years’ experience in managing an academic library at senior management level; and
3. Membership of professional body such as the Malawi Library Association (MALA).

Desired Attributes and Skills

1. Excellent leadership and organizational skills;
2. Successful supervisory experience in a people-oriented environment;
3. Excellent analytical, conflict management and problem-solving skills;
4. Ability to develop, plan, and implement short and long-range goals;
5. Excellent IT skills and familiarity with the use of databases and the internet;
6. Effective verbal and written communication skills;
7. Strong personal and professional integrity;
8. Ability to work with people from a range of backgrounds and with a range of needs;
9. Superior interpersonal and team oriented aptitude;
10. Ability to work collaboratively in a higher education environment; and
11. Ability to communicate technical concepts effectively to students and staff.

Terms and Conditions of Service
Mzuzu University provides an attractive salary and benefits in accordance with its emolument structure. The appointment is for a period of four (4) years.

Retirement Age
The normal retirement age for MZUNI is sixty (60) years. Applicants should not be more than fifty-five (55) years of age at the time of appointment to be able to serve a four (4)-year term.

 

Method Of Application

Applicants are required to submit BOTH hard copies and electronic copies of their applications. The application package should contain the following documents:

1. An application letter with a motivation for the position;
2. An up-to-date curriculum vitae (CV) with names and contact details of three traceable referees; and
3. Certified copies of academic and professional qualifications.

Applicants should further adhere to the following instructions:

a) Hardy copy submission of the application

Hard copy applications should be sent through express mail to:

VAC: LIBRARIAN
University Registrar
Mzuzu University
Private Bag 201
Luwinga
MZUZU 2, MALAWI
Mail delivered by hand should be registered with the office of the University Registrar.

b) Electronic applications

1. These should be sent to: [email protected]; with a copy to [email protected].
2. All documents should be in PDF Format; and
3. The subject line for the e-mail should read: “Application for the Post of Librarian”.

Closing Date
The applications should reach the University not later than Monday, 20th May 2024. Note that only shortlisted candidates will be acknowledged.

Candidates who responded to the first advertisement are requested to re-apply.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and therefore encourages applications from qualified men, women and persons living with disabilities.