School Librarian

Job Overview

We seek a dedicated School Librarian to uphold and promote the high standards and core values of GEMS Education. The successful candidate will play a key role in guiding students in selecting books suited to their reading abilities and interests, supporting both students and staff in sourcing relevant materials, and managing the overall library environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Encourage the principles and standards as set out by the GEMS Core Values.
• Assist students in locating books appropriate for their levels and interests, and help staff and students source relevant materials for study topics.
• Manage the borrowing system, maintain records of issued books, and follow up on overdue items, including communicating with parents when necessary.
• Develop age-specific reading lists to support learning.
• Educate younger students on book care, library layout, and the Dewey Decimal classification system.
• Collaborate with Heads of Departments to prepare the annual library order, including renewing periodical subscriptions; place orders and manage the delivery process.
• Catalogue books digitally, applying the Dewey Decimal system as relevant, and produce comprehensive catalogues.
• Repair and decommission outdated materials.
• Oversee the storage, upkeep, and accessibility of the audiovisual library resources.
• Recruit and train library volunteers, ensuring they understand library processes and procedures.
• Maintain and update examination materials (past papers, syllabi) as well as career resources.
• Ensure the library is a comfortable, well-lit, organized, and clearly labeled environment.
• Contribute to the hiring, training, and supervision of library support staff.
• Adhere to all GEMS policies, procedures, and conduct codes.
• Demonstrate additional effort beyond regular hours when needed.
• Participate in staff meetings and serve on relevant committees.
• Perform other related responsibilities as assigned by direct and secondary supervisors.

Qualifications and Skills

• A Bachelor’s degree in Library Science, Information Management, Education, or a related field.
• Proven librarianship experience, preferably in a school or educational institution within the UAE.
• Strong understanding of library operations, cataloguing, classification systems, and digital library management.
• Experience with library management systems and familiarity with online research databases.
• Skills in managing acquisitions, inventory control, shelving, and resource organization.
• Excellent abilities in research, information retrieval, and providing reference support.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively assist students, educators, and staff.
• Background in promoting reading initiatives and literacy programs.
• Good organizational abilities with close attention to detail and accuracy.
• Capable of maintaining an inviting, inclusive, and student-centered library atmosphere.
• Proficient in English; Arabic language skills are advantageous.
• Competent with IT tools such as Microsoft Office and digital learning platforms.
• Knowledge of book selection criteria, evaluation, and maintaining age-appropriate materials aligned with school standards and UAE regulations.