Chief Officer: Acquisition Librarian- x1
Job Details
- Job Title: Chief Officer: Acquisition Librarian (Post Level 8)
- Organisation: University of the Free State (UFS)
- Department: Library and Information Services
(Under Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies) - Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State, South Africa
- Job Type: Permanent, Full-time, Junior Management level
- Closing Date: 24 April 2026
Job Purpose
To manage and coordinate the acquisition of library resources by:
- Selecting and procuring books, journals, and digital resources
- Managing budgets and supplier relationships
- Ensuring the library collection supports academic and research needs
- Driving digital transformation and access to information
Minimum Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree (NQF Level 7) in:
- Library and Information Studies
OR - Relevant degree + Postgraduate Diploma in Library and Information Studies (NQF Level 8)
- Library and Information Studies
- Minimum 3 years’ experience in acquisitions within Library & Information Services
Key Responsibilities
Collection Development & Acquisitions
- Select and acquire books, journals, databases, and multimedia resources
- Ensure alignment with academic and research needs
- Review and improve collection development policies
- Maintain ethical and diverse content selection
Digital Resources & Innovation
- Manage electronic resources and digital collections
- Ensure access through proper authentication systems
- Apply Digital Rights Management (DRM) policies
- Support digital transformation and open resource access
Budget & Financial Management
- Monitor and manage acquisitions budget
- Analyse spending trends and recommend improvements
- Forecast future budget needs (inflation, academic growth, etc.)
- Ensure cost-effective purchasing decisions
Data Analysis & Reporting
- Analyse usage statistics and purchasing patterns
- Evaluate return on investment (ROI) of resources
- Identify underused materials for removal (weeding)
- Compile and present reports on acquisitions and budget
Stakeholder & Vendor Management
- Work with academics, students, and faculty librarians
- Negotiate with publishers and suppliers
- Maintain strong vendor relationships
- Ensure service quality from suppliers
Systems & Compliance
- Use systems such as:
- Alma (Library system – acquisitions module)
- RIALTO (online ordering system)
- Ensure compliance with licensing agreements
- Maintain high acquisition and workflow standards
Access & Inclusivity
- Ensure resources are accessible to all users
- Address digital divide challenges
- Follow accessibility standards for users with disabilities
Key Competencies
- Strong analytical and strategic thinking
- Attention to detail and organisation
- Financial and business awareness
- Leadership and teamwork skills
- Negotiation and communication skills
- Ability to work under pressure
Recommendations (Advantage)
- Honours / Postgraduate qualification in Library Science
- Experience in higher education
- Knowledge of university systems
- Membership with professional bodies like LIASA
Benefits
(Subject to conditions)
- Pension scheme
- Medical aid
- Housing allowance
- Paid leave & sick leave
- Service bonus
- Study benefits
Important Notes
- Apply via the official UFS website only
- Submit all required documents (CV, ID, qualifications, proof of employment)
- Incomplete applications will NOT be considered
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
Ideal Candidate
Someone who:
- Has strong experience in library acquisitions and budgeting
- Is analytical and detail-oriented
- Can manage digital and physical resources effectively
- Has good negotiation and stakeholder management skills