Cataloguing and Metadata Librarian

Department: Wits Libraries

Key Responsibilities

• 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

Requirements

Qualifications and Required Skills:

B.Bibl, BInf degree or Bachelors 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