Principal Librarian - Cataloguing at United States International University - USIU Africa

Job Summary

Reporting to the University Librarian, the holder of this position will be responsible for coordinating the cataloguing, classification and processing of library information resources in accordance with international professional standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the cataloging section to ensure an efficient workflow by preparing annual work plans for the section, and supervising the section staff.
• Develop and review policies and operational procedures and practices for the processing of information resources.
• Create original Machine Readable Cataloguing (MARC) records and update OCLC records to add to the library online catalog.
• Determine appropriate guidelines in applying rules of Anglo-American Cataloguing Rules, Library of Congress subject heading policies and MARC21 format for Bibliographic Data, etc
• Maintain accurate Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC) records.
• Lead in researching, training staff and implementing new cataloguing techniques and technologies.
• Participate in weeding of library collections and stock take activities and lead the process of stock take clean up.
• Prepare annual section budgets and ensure efficient utilization of the approved budget.
• Compile regular section reports and statistics to inform decision making.
• Engage in professional development activities, including participation in conferences, workshops, professional meetings, etc. to keep abreast with trends in metadata management, resource discovery, etc.
• Mentor staff in the section to ensure continuity and coordinate the training and appraisal of work-study students, interns and students on attachment within the section and
• Conduct annual performance reviews for staff in the section.

Minimum Educational Qualifications and professional Experience

• Masters Degree in Library and Information Sciences.
• 3 years relevant library experience, preferably in an academic setting.
• Proficiency in computer applications.
• Shown merit and ability as reflected in work performance and results.

Personal Attributes & Competencies

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Administrative/managerial/organizational skills.
• Research, analytical and problem solving skills.
• Proficiency in computer and internet use.
• Experience with cataloguing tools.