Cataloguing and Metadata Librarian at University of the Witwatersrand

Purpose

• As a research-intensive university, we are in the process of re-conceptualising libraries to align with our needs in the 21st century. We are seeking to appoint a suitably qualified, experienced and innovative person for the position of Cataloguing and Metadata Librarian to describe information resources, create bibliographic and item records for all library resources, perform original and copy cataloguing, enable the discovery of information resources and to enhance the accessibility of the resources.

Brief Description        
Key responsibilities include the following:

• Accurately catalogue various library materials, including books, periodicals, multimedia, using AACR2, RDA, and MARC-21 according to international standards 
• Create metadata and enrich keywords, to link research output towards relevant indicators of the goals and targets of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• Create original bibliographic records and perform original cataloguing as required
• Utilise OCLC and other library databases for copy cataloguing, maintaining consistency and accuracy in catalogue records.
• Develop the information resources description directives and guidelines
• Update descriptive records on the relevant Integrated Library systems
• Update and maintain authority records for consistent subject headings and author names in the catalogue in compliance with international standards
• Research, analyse and select subject descriptions to propose subject headings for
• international databases
• Maintain the catalogue by investigating and analysing non-compliance of data and
• standardising non-compliance in structured information records
• Conduct regular quality checks to ensure catalogued records' accuracy and completeness.
• Compile reports, statistics and internal documentation

Qualifications and Required Skills:

• B.Bibl, BInf degree or Bachelor’s Degree plus Postgraduate Diploma in LIS and/or Honours in LIS (Library and Information Science), with 4 years’ experience in the field of cataloguing and descriptive structures in academic or research libraries

Knowledge, Skills and Competencies:

• Sound knowledge and practical application of RDA, AACR2, MARC21, OCLC WorldCat, LCC, LCSH, NLM Classification and MeSH.
• Knowledge and understanding of international resource description, cataloguing and classification standards and practices.
• Proficiency in Integrated Library Systems (ILS), particularly Sierra and Alma, and related bibliographic and authority control processes.
• Knowledge of descriptive cataloguing, metadata creation, bibliographic and authority control, and quality management.
• Ability to analyse information resources and apply appropriate subject headings and classification numbers.
• Ability to use relevant print and digital reference sources, national bibliographies and cataloguing tools.
• Knowledge of digital resources, metadata and the technical infrastructure supporting digital library services.
• Strong analytical, organisational, record-keeping and report-writing skills, with excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, training and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively independently and as part of a team, while maintaining productivity and service quality.
• Ability to adapt to changing technologies, priorities, processes and organisational requirements and support change within the workplace.

Knowledge, Skills and Competencies:

• Cataloguing standards: AACR2, RDA, MARC21, LCC, LCSH, NLM Classification, MeSH, OCLC/WorldCat
• Systems: Experience with Integrated Library Systems (Sierra, Alma)
• Bibliographic & authority control knowledge
• Subject analysis: Ability to analyse content and assign subject headings and classification numbers
• Reference sources: Knowledge and use of tools like national bibliographies
• Digital resources: Understanding of supporting technical infrastructure
• Accuracy & detail-oriented work approach
• Teamwork & independence: Works well both solo and in a team
• Communication & problem-solving skills
• Adaptability: Comfortable managing change and shifting priorities
• Training & record-keeping abilities
• Advanced skills: Descriptive cataloguing, IT proficiency, admin systems/policies, report writing, strong organisational skills

Deadline:14th October,2026