Technical Services Librarian at Kamuzu University of Health Sciences

UNIVERSITY LIBRARY

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

The Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS) carried out a Functional Review process, which resulted into a new Organisational Structure and Staff Establishment. Following approval of the Staff Establishment and Organisational Structure by Government, KUHeS conducted a placement exercise for existing employees. However, a substantial number of key positions are yet to be filled. The University would like to fill some vacant positions existing in its Library as part of the Functional Review implementation process.

The University is therefore inviting applications from suitably qualified candidates to fill the following vacancies:

TECHNICAL SERVICES LIBRARIAN (1 POISTION)

Grade : KU6

Location : University Library

Responsible to : Campus Librarian

Responsible for : Assistant Technical Services Librarian

Main purpose of the job

To manage procurement processes of library information resources in liaison with the Client Services Librarian, Scholarly Communications Librarian and other stakeholders; and manage the University library catalog and bindery.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Coordinating, reviewing, monitoring and implementing acquisition policies, plans, standards, strategies and procedures;
• Facilitating acquisition of library resources;
• Conducting needs assessment for information resource requirements;
• Liaising with publishers and vendors to identify new and alternative titles;
• Preserving library and information resources;
• Preparing bulletins of newly acquired information resources;
• Classifying and cataloguing information resources;
• Creating and maintaining information resource database;
• Securing library materials;
• Planning and monitoring library bindery operations;
• Facilitating user information literacy programmes;
• Procuring and managing new cataloguing technologies and tools;
• Maintaining quality control of bibliographic records including authority work;
• Participating in digital projects by assigning and verifying metadata;
• Conducting periodic monitoring and evaluation of the quality of library catalogues of affiliated colleges;
• Engaging in professional development, research, and scholarly activity;
• Preparing reports.

Minimum Education, Qualifications and Experience

• Master’s degree in Library and Information Science or any strongly related field;
• 5 years’ work experience in a similar work.

Skills and Other Attributes

1. Cataloging and Classification:

• Knowledge of cataloging standards such as MARC (Machine-Readable Cataloging) and RDA (Resource Description and Access).
• Experience with classification systems like Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) or Library of Congress Classification (LCC).

2. Knowledge of Integrated Library Systems (ILS):

• Proficiency with ILS software (e.g., Ex Libris Alma, OCLC WorldShare) for managing bibliographic records and circulation.

3. Metadata Standards:

• Understanding of metadata standards such as Dublin Core, METS (Metadata Encoding and Transmission Standard), and others.

4. Database Management:

• Ability to manage and maintain library databases, ensuring data integrity and accuracy.

5. Electronic Resources Management:

• Experience with managing e-resources, including e-books, e-journals, and digital archives.

6. Information Retrieval:

• Skills in using and managing information retrieval systems and tools.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills

1. Attention to Detail:

• Accuracy in cataloging and processing materials to ensure correct metadata and classification.

2. Problem-Solving:

• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues related to cataloging, system errors, or resource management.

3. Project Management:

• Skills in managing projects related to the organization and optimization of library resources.

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

1. Collaboration:

• Ability to work effectively with other library staff, vendors, and stakeholders.

2. Customer Service:

• Providing support to library users and responding to inquiries related to cataloging or resource availability.

3. Training and Support:

• Ability to train and support staff and users on new systems, tools, or processes.

Administrative Skills

1. Budget Management:

• Experience with managing budgets related to acquisitions and resources.

2. Vendor Relations:

• Skills in negotiating and managing relationships with vendors and publishers.

3. Policy Development:

• Ability to develop and implement policies related to cataloging, acquisitions, and digital resources.

Method Of Application

Interested individuals meeting the requirements above should submit their applications including: certified copies of certificates; detailed CV including names, emails and phone contacts of three (3) traceable professional referees to:

The Registrar

Kamuzu University of Health Sciences

Private Bag 360

Chichiri

Blantyre 3

Or via email to: [email protected] Applicants submitting via email must indicate the title of the post in the subject line of the email. Applications should be submitted by close of business on Friday, 30^th August, 2024. Those who previously submitted applications for the position of Campus Librarian are not required to re-apply. Only shortlisted candidates will be acknowledged.

Note: The successful candidates will be requested to undergo a safeguarding check prior to appointment and periodically during employment.