Purpose

• The main purpose of the collection development librarian role is to strategically build, manage, and maintain a balanced and accessible library collection that enhances student success and research production.

Minimum Requirements 

• A Degree in Library and/or Information Science or equivalent qualification.
• At least five years (5) working experience in an Academic Library, preferably in a Higher Education environment with at least 2 years of experience performing the responsibilities of this position.

Recommendations

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in collection development services, including, but not limited to, conducting collection gap analyses, managing invoices and requisitions, overseeing contracts and licensing, budgeting and financial management, and developing policies

Duties and responsibilities 

• Analysing the collection’s strengths and weaknesses to ensure it aligns with current and future academic programmes and research niche areas.
• Electronic Resources Management (ERM).
• Facilitate the procurement process for all information resources, including print and electronic resources.
• Oversee the life cycle of electronic resources, from acquisition, licensing, renewal, administration, evaluation to cancelation.
• Negotiating contracts with vendors, managing subscriptions, and ensuring that licensing terms meet institutional requirements.
• Prepare reports on the usage, and cost-effectiveness, of e-resources.
• Draft collection development policy.
• Track expenditures and make adjustments based on changing needs or budget limits.
• Participating in consortia purchasing agreements, and other partnerships to extend access to resources.
• Adhere to health and safety rules and procedures.
• Participate in library health and safety initiatives.
• Engaging in ongoing professional development activities, such as attending conferences, workshops, and webinars.
• Pursuing opportunities for formal training and certification in specialized areas relevant to the librarian’s role.