This study investigated how female librarians at Bayero University, Kano manage the complex interplay between professional duties, doctoral research, and family responsibilities. Employing a mixed-methods research design, data were collected from 20 female librarians through structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews, achieving a 100% response rate. The findings revealed that the primary challenges faced by the respondents included heavy workload, limited time, and competing family obligations, which collectively hindered their academic progress and professional productivity. To navigate these challenges, participants employed various coping strategies such as effective time management, prioritization of tasks, and support from family members, highlighting the importance of both personal and social resources in managing multiple roles. The study also revealed that all respondents benefited from institutional study grants, indicating a strong commitment by the university to support women’s academic advancement. Despite this financial assistance, the lack of flexible work schedules and limited administrative support contributed to heightened role conflict, adversely affecting both academic performance and job efficiency. Based on these findings, the study recommends that the university adopt gendersensitive institutional policies, including flexible working arrangements, structured mentoring programmes, and targeted support initiatives to alleviate role conflict. These measures are expected to enhance the work–study–life balance of female librarians, improve job productivity, and contribute to broader goals of gender equity in higher education institutions. The study further underscores the need for ongoing institutional interventions and research