School Librarian

Job Description

• Embrace and encourage the ethos and standards of excellence as defined in the GEMS Core Values.
• Assist students to find books appropriate to their reading level and interest and help students and staff source topic-related books for study.
• Responsible for arrangements for students to borrow library books, keeping records of books borrowed, following up on unreturned books via written letters to parents etc.
• Develop reading lists for various age levels.
• Teach younger students about books, their treatment and the library layout including the Dewey Decimal classification system.
• Liaise with Heads of Department to select and prepare annual library order including selection and renewal of subscriptions for periodicals. Place orders and process delivery of new books.
• Computer cataloguing of all books using the Dewey Decimal system if applicable and produce catalogues of books held.
• Repair and withdraw old books.
• Responsible for the storage, maintenance and access to the audiovisual library.
• Where appropriate, find and encourage volunteer assistance and teach volunteers the procedures and processes of the library.
• Maintain, update and make available examination material (past papers, syllabi etc.) and college and careers material.
• Responsible for the general maintenance of the library ensuring it is comfortable, well lit, attractive, organised, clearly signposted etc.
• Participate in the selection, training and supervision of library support staff.
• Ensure the GEMS policies, procedures, and codes of conduct are followed at all times.
• Initiate effort and energy beyond the typical workday, where the tasks require additional commitment.
• Attend staff meetings and serve on committees as required.
• Perform other duties as requested by direct & dotted reporting line managers / supervisors.
  
  

• Bachelor’s degree in Library Science, Information Management, Education, or a related field.
• Proven experience working as a Librarian, preferably within a school, university, or educational environment in the UAE.
• Strong knowledge of library operations, cataloguing, classification systems, and digital library management.
• Familiarity with library management systems (LMS) and online databases.
• Ability to manage book acquisitions, inventory, shelving, and resource organization.
• Excellent research, information retrieval, and reference support skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to support students, teachers, and staff.
• Experience promoting reading programs, library activities, and literacy initiatives.
• Good organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to maintain a welcoming, inclusive, and student-focused library environment.
• Proficiency in English; knowledge of Arabic is an advantage.
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office and digital learning platforms.
• Knowledge of book selection, evaluation, and maintenance of age-appropriate resources aligned with school policies and UAE requirements.