Job Description
JOB SUMMARY:
- The Librarian is responsible for managing and developing the law firm's legal information resources, ensuring that lawyers and other staff have access to the necessary materials for their work. This includes acquiring, organizing, maintaining, and disseminating legal information in both print and electronic formats. The Librarian also plays a crucial role in providing research support and training to the firm's legal professionals.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Collection Development and Management
- Assess the information needs of the firm and develop a collection development policy.
- Select, acquire, and manage legal resources, including statutes, case law, journals, legal encyclopedias, textbooks, and online databases relevant to Nigerian law and international law where applicable.
- Negotiate and manage subscriptions to online legal databases and other electronic resources.
- Maintain an inventory of library materials and manage the budget for library resources.
- Ensure the proper cataloging, classification, and indexing of all library materials using appropriate library standards.
- Oversee the maintenance and preservation of the physical collection.
- Conduct regular collection audits and make recommendations for weeding outdated materials.
Information Services and Research Support
- Provide research assistance to lawyers and other staff, utilizing both print and electronic resources.
- Develop and maintain research guides and other resources to assist users in locating information.
- Keep abreast of new legal developments and information resources relevant to the firm's practice areas.
- Respond to information requests promptly and efficiently.
Library Operations and Administration
- Develop and implement library policies and procedures.
- Manage the day-to-day operations of the library, including circulation and interlibrary loan.
- Maintain a well-organized and user-friendly library environment.
- Prepare reports on library usage and activities.
QUALIFICATION / SKILLS REQUIRED:
- Bachelor’s degree in Library and Information Science.
- Registered with the LRCN (Librarian Registration Council of Nigeria).
- A professional qualification such as masters is advantageous.
- Minimum of three (3) years of experience in a law firm
- Proficiency in using legal research databases (e.g., LawPavilion, LexisNexis, Westlaw, etc.) and general online research tools.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Proficiency in using library management systems and Microsoft Office Suite
- Strong knowledge of Nigerian legal resources and legal research methodologies.