Head - Library and Knowledge Management

Job Overview

The Head Librarian is responsible for overseeing the operations and management of the university's library services. This role encompasses a wide range of duties aimed at ensuring the library operates smoothly and efficiently at all times. The position holder is required to provide an innovative vision to develop, promote, implement, and evaluate library services, including support for learning, research, and broader community engagement, in collaboration with both internal and external stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Identify and measure key metrics for library services and benchmark them against library best practices.
• Provide strategic leadership by actively contributing to the Library Planning Team
• (LPT) and the library's strategic planning process and outcomes.
• Manage library administration, operations, and facilities. This includes activities such as setting goals, monitoring statistics, developing work plans, managing facilities, overseeing library administration, and supervising library staff daily. Handle library administration, including but not limited to scheduling, monitoring library space and facilities, and compiling and analyzing statistical and management information as required.
• Support learning and research objectives by designing innovative library services.
• Implement and deliver high-quality digital learning resources and infrastructure in alignment with the University's academic strategy.
• Manage library collections by evaluating and selecting resources to meet the needs of research and teaching activities.
• Promote a research culture through library events, guest lectures, academic/industry talks, and collaborative projects with academic/industry partners.
• Conduct research user surveys and work with focus groups to determine the support services needed by the library.
• Develop, update, and implement library rules, policies, and procedures in accordance with MOHE, MQA, PERPUN, and other related standards and guidelines.
• Ensure compliance with current legislation for copyright, licenses, information, and data.
• Systematically manage, organize, and catalogue library resources, including books and digital resources (e.g., online databases, journals).
• Prepare, justified, and obtain approval for the library budget from Senior Management.
• Ensure that the library resources are kept up to date.
• Provide consultation services for staff and students, including comprehensive reference assistance, literature reviews, and systematic review searching support in related
• Ensure periodic reporting on library services and events at Department and Academic Affairs meetings.
• Represent the library on internal or external committees as required.
• Participate in professional development activities that support the University's goals and objectives.
• Perform any additional duties assigned by the superior or university management.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

Education Qualifications

Preferably a PhD in Library and Information Science or Library and Information Management; however, a Master's or Bachelor's degree in these fields may also be considered.

Relevant Experience

* Minimum of 5-8 years of relevant experience.

* Knowledge and experience in library management and systems.

* Knowledge of supervision, training and staff utilization principles.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

* Experience in delivering efficient and effective library services.

* Knowledge of the current educational framework and trends in the library field.

* Experience in supporting research, learning, and literacy.

* Strategic management, planning and organisational skills, with the ability to translate objectives into action in a timely fashion.

* Strong leadership, people management and decision-making skills.

* Financial management experience.

* Ability to take initiative and collaborate as part of a team.

* Ability to plan, organize, supervise and evaluate the work of employees in diversified library activities.

Personal Characteristics & Behaviours

* Ability to interact positively with students and staff.

* Strong team ethic and the ability to challenge and inspire colleagues.

* Determination and ability to facilitate change.

* Ability to learn and work independently.

* Passion for literature and a desire to share a love of learning with others.

* Willingness to engage in professional development, especially in information technology, to improve library services and support teaching and learning.