Acquisitions Librarian at University of the Witwatersrand

   Key Responsibilities

• Receive order requests from Faculty Library Managers; verify pricing on service providers’ databases; capture and transmit orders via vendors’ websites, EDI or FTP platforms.
• Order library information resources including print and electronic materials.
• Assist in negotiating acquisitions agreements with service providers, suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of acquisitions policies, procedures and guidelines in consultation with the Manager: Acquisitions.
• Develop effective mechanisms for managing e-book holdings in collaboration with Cataloguing and Metadata Librarians.
• Initiate and manage journal subscriptions.
• Load budget allocations into the Library Management System (LMS).
• Generate daily LMS ordering reports to verify the accuracy of orders placed.
• Monitor and reconcile LMS and University Financial Management System (Oracle) integration reports.
• Investigate non-payment of invoices with the University’s Finance Department.
• Compile and analyse supplier performance reports.
• Monitor collections using system-generated statistics and recommend adjustments where necessary.
• Identify and remedy collection gaps when additional funding becomes available.
• Provide up-to-date information on resource allocations, order status and new publications.
• Resolve ordering-related problems and maintain effective communication with vendors and internal stakeholders.
• Gather, maintain and disseminate statistical reports relating to information resources.

Qualifications and Experience

• Honours degree in Library and Information Science (LIS) OR a Bachelor’s degree with a Postgraduate Diploma in LIS.
• A minimum of three (3) years’ experience in an academic or research library environment as an Information Librarian.

Technical Competencies

• Knowledge of library organisation and processes.
• Advanced knowledge of Integrated Library Systems (acquisitions and serials modules), intermediate searching skills, and basic knowledge of other modules.
• Knowledge of procurement and Supply Chain Management processes related to acquisitions.
• Operational knowledge of vendors and their services.
• Knowledge of purchasing documentation and interpretation of invoices, statements, delivery notes, renewals and approval notes.
• Knowledge of bibliographic terminology, formats and data.
• Knowledge of financial management principles.
• Knowledge of interfacing systems (e.g. LMS and Oracle integration).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and other productivity software.
• High level of numeracy and computer literacy.
• Ability to maintain statistical and analytical reports.
• Flexibility and adaptability in responding to procedural and technological changes.
• Advanced knowledge of relevant information technology, administration systems, policies, processes, and legal requirements regarding information distribution.

Competencies (Knowledge, skills and behavior)

• Excellent communication skills
• Strong time management and organisational skills
• Analytical and problem-solving ability
• Presentation skills
• Attention to detail and accuracy

Closing date: 19 March 2026