Library Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is a regional arm of the United Nations established to promote economic and social development in African countries. ECA's mission is to deliver ideas and actions for an empowered and transformed Africa, informed by the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 206

• The organization operates with a focus on advancing its position as a premier knowledge institution, developing macroeconomic and structural policy options, designing innovative financing models, contributing solutions to regional challenges, and advocating Africa's position at the global level. ECA is guided by five strategic directions and is divided into various divisions, including the Publications, Conference and Knowledge Management Division, which oversees the Knowledge Management Services Section where this position is located. ECA employs a diverse workforce and is committed to gender equality and inclusivity in its hiring practices.

Job Overview:
The Library Assistant position is integral to the Knowledge Management Services Section of the Publications, Conference and Knowledge Management Division at the Economic Commission for Africa. The role involves supporting library operations, assisting patrons, and maintaining library resources. The Library Assistant will work under the supervision of the Associate Librarian and will be responsible for various library functions, including circulation, collection maintenance, and technical support for library patrons. The position requires a proactive approach to managing library resources and engaging with clients to enhance their experience. The Library Assistant will also participate in outreach activities and contribute to the development of library services, ensuring that the library remains a vital resource for the organization and its stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Library Assistant will perform a range of duties, including but not limited to: conducting basic library circulation functions such as retrieval, check-out, discharge, and recalls of materials; registering incoming and outgoing records; conducting basic research for updating resources; maintaining collections according to classification systems; supporting senior staff in developing electronic reference tools; ensuring completeness of UN print and electronic documents; assisting in accessioning and database updating; providing technical support to library patrons; acquiring updated materials; managing procurement processes; performing digitization functions; participating in the design and maintenance of library web pages; providing document delivery services; collecting and analyzing data for reports; assisting with visualizations and updating informational materials; managing the library's serial collection; maintaining statistics on library usage; and performing other related tasks as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. A minimum of five years of progressive work experience in library work, archives, information management, or a related field is required. This requirement is reduced to three years for candidates with a first-level university degree or higher. Experience in library services operations and the application of information technology for modern library services, including digital repositories and electronic resources management, is essential. In-depth knowledge of client services and marketing of library resources is desirable, as is experience in developing marketing materials and using social media for promoting information resources. Candidates should also have experience in data analytics or related areas, which is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a high school diploma or equivalent. However, candidates with a first-level university degree or higher may have reduced experience requirements. The role does not specify additional job-specific qualifications beyond the general educational background.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of progressive work experience in library work, archives, information management, or a related field. This experience is reduced to three years for candidates who possess a first-level university degree or higher. Candidates should have experience with library services operations and the application of information technology for modern library services, including digital repositories and electronic resources management. Additional desirable experience includes client services, marketing of library resources, and data analytics.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the UN Secretariat. Knowledge of French is desirable, and knowledge of another UN official language is also considered an asset. The ability to communicate effectively in both written and spoken forms is essential for interacting with library patrons and colleagues.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that candidates must be recruited within the country or within commuting distance of the office. Staff members in the General Service and related categories are not eligible for allowances or benefits exclusive to international recruitment. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusivity in its workforce and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and candidates are advised to apply online as soon as possible after the job opening is posted.