Faculty Librarian: Theology and Religion x1
Job Details
- Job Title: Faculty Librarian: Theology and Religion (Post Level 8)
- Job ID: 6503
- Reference Number: 2195
- Employer: University of the Free State (UFS)
- Department: Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies – Library and Information Services
- Employment Type: Permanent
- Occupational Level: Junior Management
- Work Location: Bloemfontein Campus
- Closing Date: 10 July 2026
- Assumption of Duties: As soon as possible
- Salary: Available on request
- Application Method: Online applications only through the official UFS recruitment portal.
Job Purpose
The Faculty Librarian: Theology and Religion is responsible for providing specialized library and information services to support teaching, learning, and research within the Faculty of Theology and Religion. The position focuses on information literacy instruction, research support, collection development, scholarly communication, faculty liaison, and promoting access to academic resources. The incumbent works closely with students, researchers, and academic staff to ensure effective use of library resources and services while contributing to student success and research excellence.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The successful candidate will:
Information Literacy
- Provide specialized information literacy instruction to Theology and Religion students and staff.
- Integrate discipline-specific research skills and academic integrity principles into training.
Curriculum Support
- Collaborate with academic staff to integrate library resources into academic modules.
- Support curriculum development by embedding research competencies into teaching programmes.
Research Support
- Conduct research consultations for undergraduate and postgraduate students and academic staff.
- Assist with literature searches, theological databases, scholarly publishing, and referencing tools.
- Provide bibliometric support and systematic review assistance.
Collection Development
- Develop, curate, and maintain print and electronic collections in Theology and Religion and related disciplines.
- Monitor collection usage and recommend new resources based on academic needs.
Electronic Resources
- Manage and promote access to subject-specific databases, e-journals, e-books, and theological repositories.
- Support users in accessing and utilizing electronic information resources.
Online Learning Resources
- Develop and update online research guides.
- Create learning materials tailored to Theology and Religion programmes.
Faculty Liaison
- Serve as the liaison between Library and Information Services and the Faculty of Theology and Religion.
- Strengthen partnerships with academic departments to improve library support.
Academic Integrity
- Promote ethical research practices.
- Train students and staff on referencing management tools and plagiarism prevention.
Scholarly Communication
- Support Open Access publishing initiatives.
- Assist with institutional repository services.
- Promote research visibility and scholarly publishing.
Student Support and Outreach
- Participate in library outreach programmes.
- Deliver workshops and training sessions.
- Contribute to student academic success initiatives.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have:
Educational Qualification
- Bachelor’s Degree, Advanced Diploma, or B.Tech (NQF Level 7) in:
- Library and Information Science
- Information Science
- Library Studies
Experience
- A minimum of three (3) years’ relevant experience in an academic library environment.
Professional Registration
- Current membership of the Library and Information Association of South Africa (LIASA).
Recommended Qualifications
Preference will be given to candidates with:
- Postgraduate qualification (NQF Level 8 or higher) in:
- Library and Information Science
- Information Science
- Library Studies
- Experience within the higher education sector.
- Knowledge of university systems, policies, and procedures.
Required Competencies
Results Orientation
- Ability to set high standards and achieve goals.
- Adaptability to changing environments.
Strategic Thinking
- Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Effective planning and organizational skills.
Business Acumen
- Compliance with rules and regulations.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
Leadership
- Ability to provide direction and guidance.
- Promote teamwork and collaboration.
Relationship Building
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to build partnerships and collaborate effectively.
Employment Benefits
Subject to University conditions, benefits include:
- Pension scheme
- Medical aid scheme
- Group life insurance
- Housing allowance
- Annual leave
- Sick leave
- Service bonus
- Study benefits
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit:
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Copies of qualifications or official proof of qualifications obtained.
- SAQA evaluation (for foreign qualifications).
- South African ID or passport (for foreign nationals).
- Proof of current or previous employment (appointment letter, employment contract, service certificate, or recent payslip) for external applicants.
- Proof of current LIASA membership.
Note: The online application system accepts a maximum of eight attachments. Applicants are advised to merge documents where possible to avoid upload issues.
Important Information
- Applications must be submitted online through the official UFS recruitment system.
- Incomplete applications will not be considered.
- Only applicants who meet the inherent requirements will be considered.
- Preference may be given to candidates from underrepresented designated groups, including persons with disabilities, in line with the University’s Employment Equity Plan.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- If no communication is received within six weeks after the closing date, applicants should regard their application as unsuccessful.
- The University reserves the right not to fill the position.
Contact Information
Enquiries:
- Telephone: 051 401 9813
- Email: PhokaR@ufs.ac.za
- Technical/Application Assistance: 051 401 2558 / 2876