ACADEMIC LIBRARIAN JOB

Academic librarians provide support to members of an academic community, such as students, researchers and lecturing staff. Typically, an academic librarian will manage, organise, evaluate and disseminate information, and they will often be responsible for a specific academic subject area or a particular function, such as resource ordering, loans, special collections.

They are also involved in facilitating and supporting learning by teaching information retrieval skills to students and staff. Academic librarians spend a considerable amount of time working with electronic resources and are increasingly involved with database management and web page development. Specialist responsibility for an academic subject or function is common even at basic-level posts. Some roles have a strong focus on electronic resources and information technology.

The following is a list of tasks typically undertaken within the role: dealing with users' enquiries. Managing resources such as books, journals and websites. Managing buildings, furniture and equipment. Managing staff, which may involve recruitment and selection, appraisals, disciplinary action, staff rotas and training, as well as day-to-day management of staff. Managing budgets maintaining relationships with external bodies, such as suppliers.

Contributing to academic course development and liaising with academic departments. Creating, updating and managing information resources - both electronic and printed. Selecting, acquiring and cataloguing information using library and information software. Assisting researchers with literature searches using databases, printed resources and the internet. Delivering information and learning skills courses for students and staff. Contributing to the development of strategic plans for library and information resources. Participation in professional groups or networks.