About Company
The University of Calabar (UNICAL) is a prestigious federal university located in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. Established in 1975, UNICAL is renowned for its unwavering commitment to academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and invaluable community service. With a vibrant and diverse student body, alongside a dedicated and expert faculty, the university offers a wide spectrum of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across numerous disciplines. Our expansive and green campus provides a stimulating and supportive learning environment, enhanced by modern facilities, including a comprehensive library system that serves as the intellectual heart and knowledge hub of the institution. UNICAL is profoundly dedicated to producing globally competitive graduates who are equipped to drive innovation and contribute significantly to national development and beyond.
Job Description
Are you passionate about the organized world of knowledge, meticulous in your approach, and eager to contribute to a thriving environment of learning and academic discovery? The University of Calabar Library is actively seeking a dedicated, detail-oriented, and enthusiastic Librarian Assistant to join our dynamic team. In this pivotal role, you will be instrumental in ensuring the smooth, efficient, and user-friendly operation of our extensive library, directly enhancing the accessibility of invaluable resources for our diverse population of students, esteemed faculty, and diligent researchers. This presents an exciting and enriching opportunity for an individual with exceptional organizational skills and a keen eye for detail to play a vital supportive role in the academic mission of one of Nigeria’s leading federal universities.
As a Librarian Assistant, your contribution will be crucial in maintaining the order, integrity, and accessibility of our extensive collection, which ranges from physical books and rare periodicals to modern digital resources. Your daily responsibilities will encompass the careful and systematic arrangement of library materials, accurate and consistent catalog maintenance, and providing essential, friendly support to our numerous library users. We are specifically looking for someone who thrives within a structured and purposeful environment, genuinely enjoys interacting with people from various backgrounds, and is deeply committed to upholding the highest standards of library service and user satisfaction. This position offers invaluable hands-on experience in various facets of library operations, directly contributing to the vibrant intellectual life of our university community and fostering a robust culture of academic inquiry, research, and perpetual discovery. Join us in shaping the future of learning and scholarship at the esteemed University of Calabar!
Key Responsibilities
- Accurately shelving and re-shelving a wide variety of library materials (books, journals, multimedia, and other resources) according to established classification systems (e.g., Library of Congress, Dewey Decimal System).
- Assisting with the physical processing of new library acquisitions, which includes precise stamping, labeling, barcoding, and security tagging.
- Performing routine and thorough shelf-reading to ensure all materials are in their correct alphabetical or numerical order and maintaining a consistently neat, tidy, and organized library environment.
- Assisting in the maintenance, updating, and verification of catalog records, ensuring the accuracy of bibliographic information and location data across all library platforms.
- Providing comprehensive front-desk support, including efficient checking in and out of materials, managing user accounts, and assisting patrons with basic inquiries and directional guidance.
- Participating actively in inventory management processes, which involves identifying missing or damaged materials and preparing them for necessary repair, rebinding, or eventual withdrawal.
- Supporting interlibrary loan services and document delivery operations as required, ensuring timely exchange of resources.
- Assisting with the creative preparation of library displays, promotional materials, and events to engage the university community.
- Performing various general administrative tasks and duties as competently assigned by the Head Librarian or senior staff members.
Required Skills
- Excellent organizational and time management skills, coupled with a strong and meticulous attention to detail.
- Demonstrated ability to accurately follow instructions and strictly adhere to established library policies and procedures.
- Proficiency in basic computer applications, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
- Strong interpersonal and effective communication skills, always coupled with a friendly, patient, and customer-service oriented approach.
- Ability to work efficiently and responsibly both independently and collaboratively as an integral part of a dedicated team in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
- Physical stamina to stand, walk, bend, lift (up to 20 lbs), and push/pull trolleys containing books and other library materials for extended periods throughout the day.
- A genuine interest in books, information science, and a strong desire to support academic pursuits and research.
Preferred Qualifications
- An Ordinary National Diploma (OND) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Library and Information Science or a closely related field.
- Previous experience working in a library, archives, bookstore, or a similar information-rich environment.
- Familiarity with widely used library management systems (LMS) such as KOHA, Destiny, or similar platforms.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive monthly salary commensurate with experience and a robust pension scheme.
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage to ensure your well-being.
- Significant opportunities for professional development, continuous learning, and career advancement within the esteemed university system.
- Access to the university's extensive and diverse resources, including academic journals, digital databases, and state-of-the-art research facilities.
- A supportive, collaborative, and intellectually stimulating work environment.
- Generous annual leave package and observance of all national public holidays.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for this position by clicking on the application link provided below. Please ensure all required fields are accurately completed.