The University of the Free State (UFS), a distinguished institution of higher learning based in Bloemfontein, invites dynamic and forward-thinking candidates to apply for the position of Electronic Resources Librarian within the Vice Rector Research and Internationalisation’s Library & Information Services. This key position offers a unique opportunity to contribute significantly to the evolving academic ecosystem by overseeing the management of electronic resources that support students, faculty, and researchers in their academic endeavors.
As a part of the strategic role of this position, the Electronic Resources Librarian will drive the optimization of digital resource management, ensuring the effective procurement, use, and maintenance of electronic resources critical to research, teaching, and learning at UFS.
Job Overview
- Position Name: Electronic Resources Librarian
- Salary/Funding: Available upon request
- Department/Category: Library & Information Services
- Location: Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa
- Employment Type: Permanent
Purpose of the Role
The Electronic Resources Librarian is integral to the University’s vision of enhancing access to digital resources by strategically managing the Electronic Resource Management (ERM) division. This role is essential in providing the university’s stakeholders—students, faculty, and researchers—seamless access to valuable academic content, while ensuring that these resources are well-maintained, accessible, and used to their full potential.
In this role, the librarian will be tasked with managing and overseeing a wide range of electronic resources, including e-books, databases, journals, and other online learning materials. A strong focus will be placed on cost-effective strategies, ensuring efficient use of resources and services. Through expert management and collaboration with key stakeholders, the Electronic Resources Librarian will play a pivotal role in fostering innovation, maximizing usage of available resources, and enhancing the overall library experience.
Minimum Requirements
- Educational Qualification:
- Bachelor’s or BTech Degree in Library and Information Science (NQF Level 7) or any degree plus Postgraduate Diploma (NQF Level 8).
- Work Experience:
- A minimum of two years in a relevant capacity, with mandatory membership in the Library and Information Association of South Africa (LIASA).
- Skills & Competencies:
- Strong organizational and strategic thinking skills
- Excellent communication skills for public engagements
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
- Effective leadership and team collaboration abilities
Key Responsibilities
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Budget Management:
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Effectively plan, allocate, and oversee the budget for electronic resources.
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Identify cost-effective solutions for licensing agreements and subscriptions.
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Monitor and report on expenditures to ensure that the library remains within its budget for electronic resources.
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Subscription Coordination:
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Oversee and manage the university’s subscriptions to e-journals, e-books, and databases, including agreements with external vendors, SANLIC (South African National Library and Information Consortium), and other national/international consortia.
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Negotiate and renew subscription deals to ensure access to cutting-edge academic resources.
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Training & Support:
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Provide training to library staff, faculty, and students on the effective use of electronic resources and tools.
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Serve as the main point of contact for technical support regarding access issues or usage problems with digital resources.
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Develop user guides, training materials, and online tutorials to enhance the understanding and use of electronic resources.
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Quality Assurance & Monitoring:
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Continuously evaluate the performance and accessibility of electronic resources.
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Gather feedback from users to improve access, usability, and the overall resource experience.
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Ensure that resources are regularly updated and that outdated or underutilized subscriptions are discontinued.
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Strategic Engagement and Stakeholder Relations:
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Engage with faculty, researchers, and departments to understand their evolving needs and provide tailored solutions.
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Foster strong working relationships with external vendors, publishers, and content providers to negotiate beneficial terms and agreements.
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Represent the university in national and international forums focused on digital resources and libraries.
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Policy Development and Implementation:
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Contribute to the development and periodic revision of the library’s policies, especially around collection development, electronic resource acquisition, and resource sharing.
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Work with library leadership to create guidelines that ensure optimal use of electronic resources and adherence to legal and copyright regulations
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How to Apply
Required Documents:
- Comprehensive CV and cover letter
- Copies of qualifications (with SAQA accreditation for foreign credentials)
- Identity document/passport
- LIASA membership certificate for 2025
- Confirmation from current or previous employers as needed
Application Deadline: April 20, 2025
Submission Method: Apply online through the UFS Career Portal: UFS Career Portal
Contact Information:
For any inquiries, please reach out to UFS Talent Management at 051 401 9848 or via email at Access4All@ufs.ac.za.
Important Notices
- UFS is committed to employment equity and diversity, prioritizing applicants from underrepresented groups.
- No recruitment fees are required for this position.
- Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Joining the University of the Free State as an Electronic Resources Librarian presents an exciting opportunity to contribute to the academic and research landscape of South Africa. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply before the deadline and take a step towards a fulfilling career in higher education.
For more details and to submit an application, visit UFS Career Portal.