University Librarian

 University Librarian

Full Time

Lusaka, Zambia

Closes: October 3, 2025

Cavendish University Zambia

Success Begins at Cavendish University

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.