PRINCIPAL LIBRARIAN

Job Overview

The Gauteng Division of the High Court in Johannesburg is seeking a Principal Librarian (Level 08) to oversee library operations, monitor collections, and provide specialized legal research support. Responsibilities include cataloguing legal materials, managing digital subscriptions like LexisNexis and Sabinet, assisting judges and legal professionals with research and citations, conducting user training, supervising staff, and managing library administration. Applicants must hold an NQF Level 6 qualification in Library or Information Science along with at least two years of relevant experience.

Requirements & Qualifications

• National Diploma in Library Science/Information Science or equivalent qualification at NQF level 6 as recognised by SAQA
• A minimum of two (2) years’ experience in Library Services
• A valid driver’s license will serve as an added advantage
• Knowledge of Library and Information Science matters, Library prescripts, legislation, procedures, processes and library services
• Knowledge of free legal sites to access information and online databases (LexisNexis, Juta stats, Westlaw, Sabinet and SAFLII)
• Understanding of information management and research skills to retrieve information
• Basic understanding of the Constitution Act, 1996, Promotion of Access to Information Act, 2 of 2000, and Protection of Personal Information Act, 4 of 2013
• Knowledge of Batho Pele Principles
• Skilled in communication, planning and organising, computer literacy (Microsoft Office), customer services, supervisory skills, report writing, interpersonal relations, research and analytical skills

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Monitor the collection, cataloguing and publications of Library materials within the court
• Identify and select relevant material to be procured at court Library in accordance with policies and guidelines
• Assess relevance and currency of the library collection and make recommendations for additions, removals, or updates
• Organise and catalogue legal materials to ensure easy retrieval by legal professionals
• Apply appropriate classification systems and metadata to enhance collection accessibility and barcoding
• Monitor usage of library information resources, serial publications, loose-leaf subscriptions, and binders
• Facilitate submission of standing orders and interlibrary loans
• Monitor circulation desk services, helpdesk roster, and rendering of library and information services to the judiciary
• Implement digital tools and technologies to enhance information retrieval processes and legal research
• Monitor digital resources, electronic databases, legal research tools, and online subscriptions
• Monitor circulation of handed-down judgments and finalized judgments of interest to judges and external stakeholders
• Provide reference assistance and library awareness to judges, lawyers, court staff, and the public
• Provide support with legal research, citation verification, and locating relevant legal precedents
• Conduct training sessions for legal professionals on effective legal research methods and database usage
• Coordinate and monitor effective library administration, staff meetings, and Library Committee meetings
• Monitor quarterly budget allocations, procurement processes with Supply Chain Management, asset verification, and disposal of publications
• Supervise, develop, manage performance, and conduct discipline of staff members
• Develop, implement, and monitor work systems and processes for efficient and effective functioning

Enquiries & Contact