Reference & Information Services Lead at the American University of Nigeria (AUN)

The American University of Nigeria was founded in response to the need for a world-class university in sub-Saharan Africa. The University’s mission is to provide quality education to Nigeria and Africa’s future leaders in order to equip them with the skills needed to solve development issues on the continent, and give them the knowledge needed to create solutions that will benefit their community, their country and, ultimately, the world.

We are recruiting suitable candidates to fill the position below:

Job Title: Reference & Information Services Lead

Location: Adamawa
Effective ASAP
Name of Incumbent: TBD
Department: Digital Services
Reports to: Interim University Librarian
Supervises: Reference Service Assistant.

Summary of Position

• The Reference Service Manager shall provide reference service guides to users in using computer resources in a digitalized learning environment.
• Also, He/She shall analyze patron’s needs and evaluate materials to develop collection, provide readers advisory service through bibliography materials, educate patrons on library utilization, inventory reference collection and an up-to-date reference material. Also, He/she shall guide/ lead students with regards their senior design project(SDP)as to how to go about sourcing for the needed reference materials either digitally or otherwise as maybe required by the school(s).
• The position shall provide leadership to the entire reference team and report back directly to the Director-Digital Services.

Detailed Listing of Responsibilities

• Coordinates, promotes and assesses Reference Service program that will support the learning, teaching and research requirements of students, Faculty and staff.
• Leads the reference team to set and implement a vision for innovative academic information service for the areas of reference and information services
• Assists patrons with their information needs. Provides quick reference, detailed research, reader’s advisory assistance and on the basis of selective dissemination of the information.
• Provides reference service to all patrons, on individual or group basis through use of Online Public Access Catalog, online databases, audiovisuals and other formats.
• Coordinates, monitor, supervise and appraise staff working under him/her and address issues in the work area on an ongoing basis.
• Assist patrons to acquire the skills to enable them use mobile technologies E.g. Laptops kindles, IPad, and wireless printers.
• Responsible for inter-library loans and other cooperation issues that relates to exchange of Information resources. In consultation with the director also makes consortia agreement with institution within and outside the country.
• Provide guides and pathfinders that may aid in accessing information from On-line databases and Open Resources.
• Prepares work-shift schedules and supervises all staff on shift for full implementation
• Browses through the online databases and links to Open Access Resources to ensure functionality and report to the Instructional Technology Unit (ITU) defects noticed.
• Collaborate with the Instructional Technology Unit on issues that relates to the library website and applications.
• Leads the reference team to set and implement a vision for digital innovative academic information service for the areas of reference.
• Provide specified library guided tours to visitors and new members of the Institution.
• Schedules classrooms, study rooms and 24/7 section to ensure smooth operation of space usage.
• Demonstrates an understanding of the reference interview process and strong knowledge of protocol and procedures of reference services
• Provides one-on-one research consultation service to students and faculty.
• Collates reference requests and maintains E- library statistics
• Advises faculty and administration about new information resources arrivals in conjunction with supervisor
• Provides support and assistance in information literacy programs

Requirements for the Position

• Bachelor's Degree in Library Science, Information Science.
• A Master’s degree would be an advantage.
• Minimum of five to eight years of professional experience in a digitalized learning resource center or library facility required.
• Ability to articulate a vision for reference services.
• One year of supervisory or management experience preferred.  Must possess excellent communication skills.
• Must be flexible enough to adapt to changing circumstances at workplace.
• Must demonstrate a good knowledge of information communication technology in reaching out to faculty and students.
• Must also demonstrate team building skills including the ability to motivate, develop and mentor others.

Other requirements, abilities for the position:

• Positive human relations skills.
• Ability to communicate in English both orally and in writing
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students and faculty.
• Proficiency in written and oral communications skills.
• Ability to work independently and with others in a changing environment.
• Evidence of initiative, resourcefulness, and adaptability.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.