Librarian

English Schools Foundation; Hong Kong; On-site; HKD 391,849 - 548,589; Full time

Job summary

The English Schools Foundation is seeking a Library Manager to lead the Learning Resources Centre in Hong Kong. The ideal candidate will have a Degree/Diploma in Librarianship with at least 8 years of supervisory experience in a library, strong management skills, and excellent communication abilities.

Key responsibilities include managing library operations, supporting academic integrity, developing online resources, and mentoring staff and volunteers. This role offers an opportunity to promote a culture of reading and inquiry among students.

Qualifications

• At least 8 years of supervisory experience in a library.
• Strong understanding of information literacy.
• Knowledge of the school's aims and objectives, students' abilities, and reading needs.

Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic development and day-to-day management of the Learning Resources Centre.
• Provide guidance and support to students and teachers in academic writing.
• Administer and maintain the loan system and good order of the library.

Skills

Excellent oral and written English communication skills

High level of management skills

Ability to appraise and evaluate library materials

Strong interpersonal and communication skills

Education

Degree/Diploma in Librarianship or Information Management

Membership of a professional library organization

Tools

Library management software

General computer software

Job description

Role Summary

• Lead the strategic development and day to day management of the Learning Resources Centre (LRC).
• Collaborate with subject teachers and curriculum leaders to integrate information literacy and enhance the quality of the student learning experience.
• Promote a culture of reading, inquiry, and student leadership across the school.
• Provide guidance and support to students and teachers in research, academic writing, academic integrity, and AI use.

Main Accountabilities

• Resource, select, maintain and promote stock - print and non‑print; liaise with staff/faculties to support curriculum planning and library collection development.
• Order, classify, catalogue and oversee all processes necessary and make stock shelf‑ready.
• Develop, evaluate, maintain library software to perform essential library operations and provide effective services.
• Prepare and maintain library publications and documentation to facilitate communication with the school community and external organisations.
• Administer and maintain the loan system and general good order of library; stock checks, culling, etc.
• Plan and conduct library skills and orientation programmes to support students in use of information.
• Promote the library through displays & activities plus the website, with input from subject departments.
• Develop online resources and ICT facilities and services via the library portal.
• Provide professional services in support of learning & research needs to achieve the most effective delivery of the curriculum.
• Manage an annual budget to ensure its effective use.
• Ensure the management and provision of the library supports the aims & objectives of the school.
• Organise and supervise teams of student/parent volunteers to contribute in various areas of library work and activities.
• Attend meetings and maintain communication within and beyond ESF school to keep abreast of library trends.
• Provide counter services in handling daily loans and user enquiries.
• Mentor and supervise library staff and volunteers, providing professional development opportunities.
• Set expectations of student behaviour in the library and ensure these are upheld.

Requirements

• Degree/Diploma in Librarianship or Information Management.
• Membership of a professional library organization eg. CILIP, ALIA, ALA.
• At least 8 years of supervisory experience in library.

Abilities

• Excellent oral and written English communication skills.
• High level of management skills including strategic planning, supervision skills, etc.
• Ability to appraise and evaluate library materials to ensure a well‑balanced, up‑to‑date stock which meets the curricular and recreational needs of all readers.

Knowledge

• Strong understanding of information literacy.
• Good knowledge in using general computer software and applications for administration, communication and research purposes.
• Knowledge of school’s aims and objectives, students’ abilities and reading needs, knowledge of books and non‑book material.

Core Soft / Transferable Competencies Required

• High level of planning and organising skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• High adaptability and ability to work collaboratively with any team.
• Good supervision and coaching skills.