Are you passionate about helping students, researchers, and academic staff access the information they need? Are you interested in providing exceptional library services in a dynamic, university setting? North-West University (NWU), Potchefstroom Campus, is seeking an Assistant Librarian for Information and Learning Services, primarily during evening hours, to join their team. This is a permanent position offering a fulfilling career in an academic library environment. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of this role, which could be the perfect next step for anyone with a background in Library and Information Science.
Assistant Librarian Job Overview
- Position: Assistant Librarian: Information and Learning Services – Evenings
- Location: Potchefstroom Campus, North-West University
- Department: NWU Library and Information Service
- Reporting to: Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC), Research and Innovation
- Job Grade: Peromnes P10
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Application Deadline: 10 November 2024
Assistant Librarian Role Purpose
This position focuses on maintaining quality library services during evening hours to meet the needs of NWU’s diverse academic community. This includes providing circulation and information services, assisting library users in sourcing material, managing technical issues, and monitoring library activities. The role plays a crucial part in ensuring the library remains an accessible, organized, and welcoming space for academic research and learning during the evening.
Key Responsibilities
As the Assistant Librarian for Information and Learning Services, your primary duties will include:
- Circulation Services
- Handling checkouts, returns, and renewals at the Circulation Desk.
- Collecting and reconciling fines received during your shift.
- Administering holds, overnight loans, and document delivery requests.
- Promoting self-service options within the library, such as the self-checkout machine.
- Training and supervising student assistants for effective library service delivery.
- Organizing and managing the evening shift roster.
- Information Services
- Assisting undergraduates with basic information services, helping them navigate the library catalogue and databases.
- Offering advanced research assistance to postgraduate students and staff, aiding with eBooks, articles, and research databases.
- Providing technical support with programs like MS Word and PowerPoint, as well as eFundi, the university’s learning management system.
- Technical Assistance
- Observing and assisting users at computer workstations, ensuring a focus on academic work.
- Managing the library’s noise levels and user behavior to create a conducive environment.
- Offering technical support with library equipment, including computers, projectors, and printers.
- Ensuring all equipment is properly shut down and the library is secure at the end of the shift.
- Administrative Duties
- Logging and maintaining records for queries, technical issues, and attendance of student assistants.
- Managing user requests and queries via email and telephone.
- Recording library usage statistics and reporting incidents or disruptions as necessary.
- Collection Development
- Identifying and reporting gaps in the library’s collection and recommending suitable resources to support academic work.
- Ad Hoc Duties
- Participating in the Library and Information Service (LIS) Occupational Health and Safety Committee.
- Engaging in library outreach events to promote services to the broader university community.
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Qualifications and Experience Required
- Educational Background:
A Bachelor of Library & Information Science or Bachelor of Information Science is required. Alternatively, a bachelor’s degree in any discipline combined with an Advanced Diploma in Library and Information Science (NQF Level 7) will also be accepted. - Experience:
A minimum of 2 years working in an academic library setting is essential. The candidate should have experience in circulation services and general information service provision, with a good understanding of a university’s academic structure. - Technical Skills:
- Familiarity with circulation modules, interlibrary loan services, and library management systems such as TIPASA or WMS.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other essential software used in academic settings.
- Additional Competencies:
- Knowledge of both print and electronic information sources and their respective search logic.
- Ability to handle technical problems with library computers, printers, and other equipment.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with a strong client service orientation.
Behavioral Competencies
Candidates who excel in this position will exhibit:
- A strong client service orientation and empathy.
- The ability to function effectively under pressure.
- Good judgment and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
- A flexible and creative mindset, particularly when assisting a diverse user base.
Remuneration
The salary package for this role is competitive and aligns with NWU’s policy and guidelines. The final package will depend on the qualifications and experience of the successful candidate.
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How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit their applications online through the NWU official vacancy website. Applications submitted through other platforms will not be considered. Candidates from designated groups are encouraged to apply in line with NWU’s commitment to the Employment Equity (EE) Act and NWU’s Employment Equity Plan.
For more information on the job role, please reach out to Mr. Martin Nokoane at 018 389 2783. For inquiries regarding the recruitment process, please contact Dolly Lebepe at 018 299 4936.
The Assistant Librarian position at North-West University offers a rewarding opportunity for individuals passionate about supporting academic success through excellent library services. By joining NWU’s Potchefstroom Campus team, you’ll contribute to creating a supportive, organized, and accessible environment for students, researchers, and faculty members during the crucial evening hours. This role is ideal for candidates who are not only knowledgeable in library sciences but also have a strong customer service orientation and the technical skills to manage an academic library effectively.
