Principal Librarian

In brief

**Overview** This role is for a Principal Librarian within the Office of the Chief Justice (OCJ), based at the Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing and providing comprehensive library and information services, particularly focused on legal materials, to support the judiciary and other legal professionals. The position offers a salary of R413 001 – R486 501 per annum (Level 08), and the successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement. **What you will do** * Monitor the collection, cataloguing, and publication of library materials, identifying and selecting relevant resources for procurement according to library policies. * Assess the relevance and currency of the library collection, recommending additions, removals, or updates, and organise/catalogue legal materials using appropriate classification systems and metadata. * Monitor the usage of library information resources (hard and soft copies), serial publications, amendments, and loose-leaf subscriptions. * Facilitate standing orders for the court and monitor the rendering of library and information services to the judiciary, including circulation and helpdesk services. * Implement digital tools and technologies to enhance information retrieval, staying updated on emerging technologies relevant to legal research and library management, and monitoring digital resources such as electronic databases and online subscriptions. * Facilitate interlibrary loans, monitor the circulation of delivered judgments to publishers and external stakeholders, and ensure finalised judgments of interest are circulated to other judges. * Provide reference assistance and library awareness within the court, offering support to judges, lawyers, court staff, and the public with legal research, citation verification, and locating legal precedents. * Conduct training sessions for legal professionals on effective legal research methods and the use of legal databases, and keep them informed about recent legal developments. * Advocate for the library's importance within the court system and promote awareness of its resources and services. * Coordinate and monitor effective library administration, including staff meetings, Library Committee meetings, and support online trainings. * Monitor quarterly budget allocations, coordinate procurement processes with supply chain management, and monitor internal asset verification and disposal of approved library publications. * Supervise staff. **Requirements (from the original advert)** * A National Diploma in Library Science, Information Science or equivalent qualification at NQF level six (6) with 360 credits as recognised by SAQA. * A minimum of two (2) years’ relevant experience in library services. * Experience in a legal/law library will serve as an added advantage. * Knowledge and skills: * Knowledge of library and information science matters, library prescripts, legislation, procedures and processes. * Knowledge of online databases. * Understanding of information management and retrieval of information. * Research and analytical skills. * Communication (written and verbal). * Computer literacy (MS Office). * Planning and organising. * Accuracy and attention to detail. * Interpersonal skills. * Problems solving. * Report writing. * Ability to work under pressure and independently. **Who should apply** Individuals holding a National Diploma (NQF Level 6 with 360 credits) in Library Science, Information Science, or an equivalent qualification, coupled with a minimum of two years' relevant experience in library services. Candidates with experience in a legal or law library are particularly well-suited. The ideal applicant should possess strong knowledge of library and information science principles, online databases, and information management, along with excellent research, analytical, communication, planning, and organisational skills. This role requires someone who is computer literate, detail-oriented, capable of working independently under pressure, and able to supervise staff while providing crucial support to legal professionals. **Deadline** Not specified **Reference** Original posting: https://www.govpage.co.za/vacancies/office-of-the-chief-justice-ocj-vacancies-from-dpsa-circular-38-of-2026#spani-ref-2026-151-ocj Source: govpage

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