Systems Librarian at Hekima University College

Position Summary

• The Systems Librarian is central to the management and development of the library’s digital infrastructure and integrated library systems. This person provides leadership and support in the development, implementation, and maintenance of the library’s systems and technologies. Working closely with library staff, IT personnel, and faculty, the Systems Librarian ensures seamless access to digital resources, optimizes system performance, and supports innovation in library services.

Key Responsibilities

• Administer and maintain the library’s management system (Koha) and discovery platform (EBSCO Discovery Service).
• Manage authentication systems (OpenAthens) to ensure secure and consistent off-campus access to electronic resources.
• Collaborate with university ICT department to manage server environments, hardware and software upgrades, and system integrations particularly as they pertain to the Library.
• Build and maintain the Library’s digital repository.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to library systems and electronic resources.
• Lead projects related to systems migration, platform evaluation, or technology adoption.
• Analyse and optimize workflows through automation and system enhancements.
• Provide training and documentation for library staff on system functionalities and updates.
• Participate in library-wide planning and contribute to the development of digital initiatives and strategic goals.
• Maintain and repair the Library’s computers and its information resource centre.
• Recommend and implement new and innovative technologies.
• Implement and manage virtual reference services.
• Train and sensitise Library users on access to the Library’s electronic resources.
• Upgrade, customise and regularly update the Library’s website.
• Occasionally working at the circulation desk where necessary.
• Shelving and shelf-reading of books.
• Provide reference services to users.
• Maintain and generate reports related to circulation and usage statistics for electronic resources.
• Reprographic services like scanning, photocopying, printing and digitising of materials.
• Annual stocktaking.
• Other job-related duties as assigned by the Chief Librarian or HUC management.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Library and Information Service, Information Sciences or their equivalent from a recognised institution with an inclination to ICT.
• Minimum of two years working experience in a similar role in an academic or research library setting.
• Experience working with cloud-based integrated library systems especially Koha and discovery tools especially EBSCO Discovery.
• Strong understanding of library metadata standards and protocols like MARC, Dublin Core, Z39.50, OAI-PMH.
• Familiarity with web technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript), scripting languages like Python, PHP, database systems like MySQL, PostgreSQL and APIs.
• Knowledge of authentication and access management systems especially OpenAthens.
• Familiarity with digital preservation, digital repositories, or data management platforms like DSpace and Open Journal Service.
• Demonstrated ability to manage technical projects and troubleshoot hardware and software issues

Key Competencies and Skills

• Networking skills
• Communication and presentation skills
• Interpersonal skills
• ICT proficiency
• Teamworking skills
• Ability to work with minimal supervision and with tight deadlines