Kisii University, one of Kenya’s leading public institutions of higher learning, is inviting applications from qualified candidates to fill the position of Chief University Librarian. This opportunity comes at a time when the university continues to expand its academic and research footprint both locally and internationally. The successful candidate will be expected to provide visionary leadership in managing, developing, and modernizing the University Library, ensuring that it continues to support teaching, research, innovation, and community service in line with the institution’s mandate.

The library remains an integral component of any academic institution. It serves as the intellectual hub where knowledge is created, stored, disseminated, and preserved. As Kisii University continues to grow in student population, research activity, and academic programmes, the demand for a well-managed, technologically advanced, and resource-rich library becomes ever more important. The Chief University Librarian will be the custodian of this vital resource, guiding its development to match the global standards of academic and research libraries.

This recruitment is being carried out under advert number KSU/AC/ARSA/01/09/25. The successful candidate will report directly to the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Research and Students Affairs. The appointment will be in Job Group Grade 15, and the position falls under the Library Department. The university seeks a leader with proven experience, high integrity, and a demonstrated ability to manage library systems and resources at a senior level.

The following section provides details of the duties and responsibilities attached to the role of Chief University Librarian. Applicants are encouraged to carefully review these requirements before submitting their applications.

The Chief University Librarian will have overall responsibility for the management and strategic development of the University Library. The role requires not only administrative skills but also an ability to harness modern information systems, strengthen academic support services, and ensure that the library remains an inclusive space for both staff and students. The officer at this level will perform the following key duties and responsibilities:

The Chief Librarian will be tasked with ensuring the effective day-to-day running of the university library. This includes overseeing the acquisition, cataloguing, processing, storage, and circulation of library materials. The role will require developing policies and systems to ensure smooth user access to resources, prompt circulation services, and high levels of user satisfaction.

Another critical responsibility will be the preparation and implementation of the library’s annual budget. The librarian will plan for the growth of library resources by projecting future needs, allocating funds for acquisitions, and coordinating library staff training in collaboration with the Registrar (Administration, Human Resource, and Central Services). Efficient financial planning will be crucial to sustain the library’s development and ensure accountability.

In today’s knowledge-driven environment, digital resources are as essential as physical collections. The Chief Librarian will work closely with the Director of Information and Communication Technology to identify, develop, and implement ICT policies for the library. This includes adopting digital catalogues, managing e-resources, introducing integrated library management systems, and exploring new technologies that enhance user experience and support e-learning.

To maximize the utilization of library resources, the Chief Librarian will design and administer comprehensive user education programmes. These initiatives will target both staff and students, teaching them how to effectively access and use library resources, navigate e-databases, and embrace digital learning tools.

The library does not exist in isolation. The Chief Librarian will promote cooperation with other libraries, both within Kenya and abroad. This includes developing partnerships with information resource centres, facilitating inter-library loans, and supporting information exchange. Such networks strengthen the availability of resources and reduce duplication of acquisitions.

The Chief Librarian will establish technical standards for library services to ensure quality and consistency. These standards will guide acquisition, cataloguing, preservation, digitization, and dissemination of materials. Setting and enforcing such standards guarantees that the library operates in line with both national and international best practices.

The role involves preparing, implementing, and reviewing the library’s strategic plan as well as its annual work plans. This responsibility requires aligning the department’s goals with the overall university strategic objectives. The Chief Librarian will continuously monitor performance, evaluate progress, and introduce innovations to keep the library relevant and responsive to institutional needs.

In addition to managing library operations, the Chief Librarian will coordinate and oversee the activities of the University Printing Press. This involves ensuring that the press operates efficiently, meets the demands of the institution, and delivers quality outputs within required timelines.

The role carries the responsibility of managing library personnel. The Chief Librarian will conduct annual appraisals of staff, mentor junior officers, and create professional development opportunities. Through effective leadership, the library team will be motivated to perform optimally and provide excellent services to users.

The Chief Librarian will prepare the department’s annual budget and procurement plan. This ensures that resource acquisition is aligned with the university’s academic priorities and that procurement processes comply with institutional and legal requirements.

Ensuring compliance with ISO certification standards is part of the role. The Chief Librarian will align library operations with management systems that are quality-driven and outcome-based. Conformance to such standards enhances credibility, accountability, and the delivery of intended outputs.

The Chief Librarian must ensure that all approved academic programmes are adequately supported with appropriate library resources. This involves continuous assessment of course requirements, updating reading lists, and acquiring relevant journals, e-learning resources, and reference materials. By doing so, the library will remain a reliable repository of scholarly materials.

From time to time, the Chief Librarian may be assigned other official duties to support the overall mission of the university. These tasks will be undertaken in line with institutional priorities and the evolving landscape of higher education.

Applicants must hold a PhD in Library and Information Science or its equivalent from a recognized university. They should also have at least three publications in refereed journals since their last promotion. A minimum of four years’ working experience as a Deputy University Librarian is required. Additionally, candidates must be registered members of the Kenya Library Association or another recognized professional body in good standing.

Applicants are required to submit comprehensive details of their educational and professional qualifications, work experience, current post, and salary. They should also provide their telephone number and e-mail address for correspondence.

The application should be accompanied by a cover letter, copies of relevant certificates, and testimonials. In addition, applicants must provide the names and contact details of three referees who can attest to their competence in the field of Library and Information Science.

Applications and reference letters should be addressed to:

The Vice-ChancellorKisii UniversityP. O. Box 408 – 40200Kisii, Kenya

Applications and letters from referees must be received on or before 23rd September 2025.

For more information regarding the job specifications and general requirements, interested applicants are encouraged to visit the official Kisii University website at www.kisiiuniversity.ac.ke.

Kisii University is an equal opportunity employer. Canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification. Women and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.