Librarian – Administration

Smart Talent; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 108,000 - 132,000; Full time

Job summary

Smart Talent in Johannesburg invites applications for a permanent Librarian – Administration to support higher education library services. The role covers online library operations, cataloguing, acquisitions, and user training to help students, staff and researchers access learning resources.

Responsibilities include managing catalogues, subscriptions, information literacy programs, and collaboration with academic departments to enhance teaching, learning and research activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in library and information science or equivalent.
• Postgraduate qualification in LIS is advantageous.
• 2–5 years’ library experience, preferably in higher education.
• Experience with library management systems and electronic databases.
• Strong English written and verbal communication.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations of the online library and ensure service delivery.
• Maintain catalogues, databases and circulation services.
• Organise and catalogue library materials per standards.
• Assist with subscriptions to electronic resources and databases.
• Provide information literacy training and research support.

Skills

Strong communication

Research skills

Information management

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor’s degree in LIS

Postgraduate qualification in LIS advantageous

Tools

Library management systems

MS Word

Education management systems

Digital repositories

Job description

# Librarian – Administration* June 3, 2026* 11:43 pmJob Purpose: The Librarian is responsible for managing and supporting library services within the higher education environment to ensure students, academic staff, and researchers have access to relevant learning resources, information services, and research support. The role includes overseeing library operations, engaging with suppliers, maintaining collections, promoting information literacy, and supporting teaching, learning, and research activities. The Librarian provides support and offers training to students with identifying and finding reliable information, developing writing skills, the structuring of written assignments and citing and referencing.Key Performance Areas: Library Operations & Administration: Manage the daily operations of the online library and ensure efficient service delivery. Maintain library systems, catalogues, database and circulation services. Organise, classify, and catalogue library materials according to recognized standards. Ensure proper acquisition, accessioning, and disposal of library resources. Monitor and maintain library inventory and records Enforce library policies, procedures, and regulations. Collection Development: Select and advise on acquiring eBooks, journals, electronic resources, and other learning materials aligned with academic programmes. Liaise a nd assist academic departments regarding prescribed and recommended materials. Evaluate and update library collections to ensure relevance and currency. Manage subscriptions to electronic databases and online learning resources. Identify and liaise with suppliers of prescribed and recommended books. User Support & Information Services: Assist students and staff with research, writing, referencing, and information retrieval Provide training on the use of library systems, databases, and online resources. Support information literacy and academic research initiatives. Guide users in the use of referencing styles and research tools.Academic & Research Support: Collaborate with lecturers and academic staff to support curriculum delivery. Promote open-access resources and digital learning tools. Support institutional research and academic development initiatives. Technology & Digital Resources: Manage electronic library systems and digital repositories Support access to e-books, e-journals, and online databases. Assist users with library technologies and digital platforms. Ensure proper functioning of library equipment and systems. Assist students with English language skills and using MS Word for essays and assignments. Reporting & Compliance: Prepare library usage and training statistics and reports . Ensure compliance with copyright legislation and licensing agreements. Support accreditation and quality assurance processes related to library services Participate in institutional committees and meetings when required. Working Conditions: Office-based role, with occasional external meetings or audit visits. Requires collaboration with internal teams and external stakeholders. Requirements Necessary for the Job: Education: Bachelor’s degree in library and information science or equivalent A postgraduate qualification in Library and Information Science is advantageous. Experience: 2–5 years’ experience in a library environment, preferably within higher education. Experience working with library management systems and electronic databases. Skills: Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data management. Understanding of higher education academic and research environments. Strong Research and information management skills. Knowledge of library classification systems and cataloguing standards. Efficient delivery of library services. Support provided to academic and research activities. Strong verbal and writing skills in English. Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office and education management systems. Knowledge of electronic databases, digital repositories, and online research tools. Computer literacy and proficiency in library management systems. Soft Skills: Strong organizational and administration skills. Attention to detail and accuracy in recordkeeping. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Proficiency in education technology Communication: Effective internal and external communication skills are essential for coordination with academic departments, support services, and students.Competencies: Knowledge & Competencies: ● Understanding of higher education academic and research environments ● Knowledge of library classification systems and cataloguing standards ● Ability to adapt to operational needs ● Proficiency in using technology to enhance institutional operations. ● Attention to detail. ● Analytical thinking. ● Strong MS Word skills ● Understanding of referencing apps Organizational Core Competencies: ● Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. ● Active listening and problem-solving skills. ● Decision-making ability. Managerial/Leadership Competencies: Emphasis on teamwork, collaboration, and personal development, Behavioral Competencies: ● Adaptability to changing operational demands and regulatory environments. ● Commitment to enhancing the student and faculty experience. ● High attention to detail and commitment to academic excellence.**Job Type:** Permanent**Job Location:** Johannesburg / Hybrid**CTC:** R120K**Industry:** Higher Education Administration