Website Parliament of the Republic of South Africa
Parliament plays an important role in the life of the nation. It is elected to represent the citizens of South Africa according to the Constitution. Parliament is the place where laws are passed and where important issues of the day are discussed. It is the place where the views of citizens can be heard directly by parliamentary committees. Parliament also keeps the executive and state institutions accountable. Parliament is made up of two 'houses' - the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP). The National Assembly represents the people, chooses the President, provides a forum for debate, passes laws, and oversees the executive. The NCOP represents the provinces to ensure that provincial interests are taken into account in the national sphere of government, participates in passing laws, provides a forum for debate of provincial issues, and ensures that local government is represented at national level. Both houses participate in debating and voting on the Budget. Most of this work is done by Members of Parliament (MPs) sitting in parliamentary committees.
Are you passionate about information management, library services, and making a meaningful impact on the nation’s democratic processes? The Parliament of the Republic of South Africa is hiring a Librarian to join its dynamic team! This is a rare opportunity to contribute to the heart of South Africa’s democracy while working in a premier institution that shapes the country’s laws and policies.
About the Parliament of South Africa
The Parliament of South Africa is not just a building; it is where the legislative heart of the nation beats. As the sole authority with the power to make laws for the country, Parliament plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency, accountability, and public service. The National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces are the two houses that make up Parliament, and together, they uphold the constitutional values of human dignity, equality, freedom, and justice.
Joining Parliament means becoming a part of a team that strives to make a difference in South Africa’s governance and society. If you’re ready to help shape the course of our nation’s future, this could be your calling.
Role Overview: Librarian
As a Librarian at Parliament, you will be responsible for providing vital library and information services to Members of Parliament, staff, and various stakeholders. This includes supporting information needs, managing resources, and contributing to the efficient functioning of the parliamentary process through specialized library services.
Key Responsibilities:
- Proactive and Reactive Information Services: Provide essential support to Members of Parliament and staff, ensuring that information is easily accessible and relevant.
- Specialized Information Services: Offer tailored support to meet specific needs of Parliamentarians and other key personnel.
- Resource Acquisition and Management: Oversee the acquisition of print and electronic library materials, ensuring up-to-date and comprehensive collections.
- Library Collection Maintenance: Manage the collection, processing, indexing, and development of library resources.
- User Education & Promotion: Engage in user education and actively promote the library’s services and resources within Parliament.
- Project Management & Planning: Plan and execute library-related projects and handle administrative tasks to ensure smooth operations.
Qualifications & Skills Required
To qualify for this exciting opportunity, you must have:
- An Honours degree in Library Sciences (or equivalent) with at least 2 years of relevant experience.
- Expertise in content information resources, with the ability to conduct reference interviews and manage rare and specialized information.
- Strong knowledge of Web 2.0 library tools, Anglo-American cataloging rules, and the Dewey Decimal Classification system.
- Webcasting skills and advanced computer literacy.
- The ability to manage time effectively, work under pressure, and adapt to flexible working hours when needed.
In addition, you should demonstrate:
- Strong interpersonal skills and a proactive approach.
- The ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
- A commitment to excellence and the public good.
Why Work at Parliament?
Working at the Parliament of South Africa offers a unique and fulfilling career path. In addition to the honor of serving the people of South Africa, you’ll experience:
- Meaningful Work: Your contributions will directly impact the nation’s governance and democratic processes.
- Growth and Development Opportunities: We are committed to your professional development with access to bursary schemes, training programs, and learning resources.
- A Supportive Work Culture: Parliament fosters a collaborative, inclusive, and dynamic environment where teamwork and mutual respect are highly valued.
- Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a healthy work-life integration with hybrid work arrangements (combining in-office and remote work) and a comprehensive wellness program that promotes both emotional and physical well-being.
- Competitive Compensation: We offer a market-competitive total cost package, recognizing your dedication and high performance.
To apply for this job please visit careers.parliament.gov.za.
