University Librarian at LUANAR

STAFF VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

The Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) is inviting applications from suitably qualified candidates to be considered for the post of University Librarian. The University Librarian will be responsible for provision of leadership and strategic direction in the management of library and information services.

Duties and Responsibilities

a. Leadership and Management

• Provide strategic leadership and overall management of the Library Services.
• Lead the development, implementation, monitoring and review of strategies, operational plans, policies, procedures, regulations and systems for the sustainable growth and
• efficiency of the Office of the Librarian in line with LUANAR’s strategic objectives, academic and research programming and national and regional policies and priorities.
• Establish effective partnerships and collaborations with local and international stakeholders to continuously improve Library and Information services at the University.
• Ensure that the University complies with local and international Library and information services regulations and standards.
• Lead the development of creative approaches for sustainable generation and efficiency utilisation of resources.
• Be an effective team player at the executive level by working productively with the Chancellery, University Registrar and other Directors to ensure alignment of purpose for achieving University goals and objectives.
• Ensure the availability of effective and efficient mechanisms for staff and student utilisation of library resources to facilitate knowledge acquisition, research support, and boost the output of reputable publications.
• Lead the consultative development and management of the library budgets in line with LUANAR’S financial operating procedures and regulations.
• Inculcate an entrepreneurial culture of mobilization and efficient utilization of resources for the financial sustainability of the library.

b. Academic, Research and Technical Support

• Ensure that the University maintains an up-to-date publications white-list and research database to guide staff research and publications.
• Ensure that the library stocks the most relevant resources to support the current and future academic and research programming at LUANAR.
• Initiate the introduction, implementation and scaling-up of emerging Library and Information Technologies, including e-library services and related support services.
• Initiate the development and mounting of academic and professional Library and Information service courses in liaison with relevant schools and directorates.
• Ensure the availability of user-friendly platforms and guidelines on modern Library and Information Technology services to provide a conducive environment for teaching, learning and research.
• Establish means and systems to ensure that staff and students have the necessary support and capacity to use the University’s available Libraries, Information systems, and resources.
• Supervise subordinate sta and ensure that the performance management system is con-ducted for all staff in the library.

Minimum Qualifications and Other Requirements

• Master’s Degree in Library and Information Sciences or any related fields obtained from a reputable and accredited institution of higher learning recognised by NCHE, plus ten
• (10) years’ experience in managing an academic library at senior management level.
• PhD in Library and Information Sciences will be an added advantage.
• Membership of professional body such as the Malawi Library Association (MALA).
• Excellent communication, leadership and organisational skills;
• Successful supervisory experience in a people-oriented environment;
• Excellent analytical, conflict management and problem-solving skills;
• Ability to develop, plan, and implement short and long-range goals;
• Excellent IT skills and familiarity with the use of databases and the internet;
• Strong personal and professional integrity;
• Ability to work with people from a range of backgrounds and with a range of needs;
• Ability to work collaboratively in a higher education environment; and
• Ability to communicate technical concepts e effectively to students and staff

Terms and Conditions of Engagement

The successful candidates shall be engaged on a contractual basis for three (3) years, renewable subject to a satisfactory performance review at the end of the contract period.

The position of the University Librarian comes with an attractive compensation package in accordance with the LUANAR Staff Regulations and Conditions of Service (2023), which includes competitive salary, benefits, and other entitlements as applicable.

Mode of Application

Hard copy application package should include an up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV), names and contact details of three traceable referees plus certified copies of academic and professional qualifications. The title of the position must be indicated on the envelope and sent to:

The University Registrar
Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources(LUANAR)
P.O. Box 219
LILONGWE

Mode of Application

All applications should reach the UNIVERSITY no later than Friday, 18 October 2024. Only shortlisted candidates will be acknowledged.

LUANAR is an equal opportunity employer hence females are encouraged to apply.