Chief Librarian

Chief Librarian Job in Lusaka – ZCAS University.

ZCAS University is inviting applications from highly qualified, experienced, and visionary professionals for the position of Chief Librarian. This senior leadership opportunity is based in Lusaka, Zambia, and is ideal for an accomplished library and information management professional with extensive experience in academic libraries, digital information systems, and knowledge management.

Reporting directly to the Vice-Chancellor, the successful candidate will provide strategic leadership for the University's library and knowledge services, ensuring they support excellence in teaching, research, consultancy, innovation, and community engagement. The role offers an opportunity to lead the transformation of library services through digital innovation, scholarly communication, and modern information management practices.

About the Role

The Chief Librarian will oversee the planning, development, and management of the University's library system, including both physical and digital collections. The successful candidate will ensure that students, lecturers, researchers, and staff have access to high-quality information resources and modern library services that support academic excellence.

The role also involves strengthening digital library services, expanding electronic resources, promoting research support services, and ensuring that library operations align with the University's strategic goals.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be responsible for:

Strategic Library Leadership

- Provide strategic direction for the University's library and knowledge management services.

- Develop and implement policies that improve library operations and service delivery.

- Ensure library services support teaching, learning, research, consultancy, and innovation.

- Lead continuous improvement initiatives within the library.

Library Resource Management

Responsibilities include:

- Manage the acquisition, organisation, preservation, and accessibility of print and digital collections.

- Oversee electronic databases, digital repositories, and online information resources.

- Ensure effective collection development based on academic programmes and research priorities.

- Promote efficient utilisation of library resources.

Research and Academic Support

The successful candidate will:

- Support researchers with scholarly communication and research information services.

- Promote information literacy programmes for students and staff.

- Strengthen institutional research support services.

- Encourage the use of digital technologies in academic research.

Administration and Team Leadership

The role also involves:

- Supervising library staff and promoting professional development.

- Preparing library budgets and managing allocated resources effectively.

- Monitoring library performance and service quality.

- Collaborating with academic departments and university management to improve information services.

- Representing the University in professional library networks and partnerships.

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants should possess:

- Full Grade 12 School Certificate with at least five (5) O-Level credits, including English Language and Mathematics.

- Bachelor's Degree in Library and Information Science.

- Master's Degree in Library and Information Science or a related field.

- A PhD in Library and Information Science or a related discipline will be an added advantage.

- Minimum eight (8) years' relevant professional experience, including at least three (3) years in a senior management position.

- Practical experience managing digital library systems and electronic information resources.

- Membership with the Library and Information Association of Zambia (LIAZ).

Skills and Competencies

The ideal candidate should demonstrate:

- Strong strategic leadership and management abilities.

- Excellent knowledge of academic library operations.

- Experience with digital libraries and electronic resource management.

- Strong organisational and planning skills.

- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

- Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams.

- High ethical standards and professional integrity.

- Strong analytical and decision-making abilities.

- Commitment to innovation and continuous improvement.

Why Join ZCAS University?

ZCAS University is one of Zambia's leading private higher education institutions, recognised for excellence in business, finance, information technology, engineering, and professional education. The University is committed to advancing research, innovation, and academic excellence while investing in modern learning resources and digital technologies. Joining ZCAS University provides an opportunity to contribute to the development of world-class library services that support quality teaching, impactful research, and lifelong learning.

Applications should be addressed to:

The Chairperson

Search Committee

ZCAS University

Lusaka, Zambia

Job Summary

- Company: ZCAS University

- Position: Chief Librarian

- Vacancies: 1

- Location: Lusaka, Zambia

- Employment Type: Full-Time

- Minimum Qualification: Master's Degree in Library and Information Science

- Preferred Qualification: PhD in Library and Information Science

- Experience Required: Minimum 8 years

- Professional Membership: Library and Information Association of Zambia (LIAZ)

- Application Method: Email

- Closing Date: 31 July 2026

About ZCAS University

ZCAS University is a leading private university in Zambia dedicated to providing quality higher education, professional training, research, and innovation. The University offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across business, technology, engineering, education, and related disciplines. Through modern teaching methods, digital learning resources, and strategic partnerships, ZCAS University continues to produce graduates equipped to meet the demands of the global workforce while contributing to Zambia's socio-economic development.