Collection Development Librarian

The American University in Dubai is recruiting a Collection Development Librarian to lead its print and digital library collections. Reporting to the Library Director, the role manages selection, acquisitions, licensing, evaluation and cataloging of books, e-books, journals, databases and media. The objective is to maintain useful, discoverable and sustainable resources that support teaching, learning and research.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Collection Development Unit and supervise acquisitions, cataloging and metadata staff, including training and performance reviews.
• Plan collection selection, deselection and review across physical and electronic resources.
• Oversee ordering, receiving, claims, renewals, invoice processing and electronic-resource access throughout the resource life cycle.
• Review and negotiate licence agreements, manage vendor relationships and monitor collection expenditure and budgets.
• Coordinate gifts, donations and weeding projects in line with academic priorities.
• Maintain bibliographic control, cataloging and authority records for different formats, including Arabic-language materials.
• Develop metadata workflows and quality controls so library resources remain accessible and discoverable.
• Prepare collection analysis, support library initiatives and keep current with acquisition and technology developments.

Requirements and Qualifications

A master’s degree in Library or Information Science, or an equivalent qualification, is required. Applicants must have at least three years of professional academic or research library experience in acquisitions and/or cataloging, and be able to catalog Arabic-language materials. Supervisory experience and Arabic-English proficiency are preferred.

Skills

Advanced knowledge of collection development, acquisitions, budget stewardship and vendor relations is important. Candidates should know RDA, MARC 21, LCSH, LCC and authority control, including Arabic-script cataloging and ALA-LC romanization. Familiarity with Dublin Core, library systems and emerging technologies is valuable. Strong analytical, project-management and communication skills are required.

Employment Details

Employer: American University in Dubai
Location: Dubai, UAE
Reporting to: Library Director
Physical requirements: May include climbing, carrying items up to 15 kg and reaching above or below shoulder level.
Application: Applications are accepted until filled. UAE-based candidates are preferred. Email a cover letter, updated CV and details for three academic or professional references to recruitment@aud.edu, using the job title as the subject. No phone calls.