Stipend: R7 860.50 per month
Duration: 24 Months
Location: Head Office, Pretoria
Department: Department of Employment and Labour – LMIS Sub-Unit
Position Type: Graduate Internship – Library and Information Services
Exciting Graduate Internship in Library and Information Science
The Department of Employment and Labour is inviting unemployed South African graduates to join its Library and Information Services (LMIS sub-unit) as a Library Intern for a period of 24 months at the Head Office in Pretoria. This internship provides an excellent opportunity for graduates in Library and Information Science to gain practical, hands-on experience while developing professional skills in:
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Cataloguing and classifying library materials
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Database management and digital information systems
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Customer service and patron support
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Library operations and administration
Graduates will gain exposure to the daily operations of a government library, supporting the Department’s goal of providing accurate, timely, and accessible information to internal and external stakeholders.
This role is ideal for candidates seeking to build a career in library management, information science, records management, or knowledge management within the public or private sector.
Minimum Requirements – Who Should Apply
Educational Qualification
Applicants must have one of the following qualifications:
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Three-year National Diploma (NQF6) or
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Undergraduate Degree (NQF7) in:
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Library and Information Science
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Information Management
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Knowledge Management or related fields
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Eligibility Criteria
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Must be a South African citizen
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Must be unemployed
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Must not have previously participated in a government internship programme
This ensures that the internship benefits new entrants to the workforce, particularly young graduates seeking their first professional role.
Role Purpose – Supporting Library Operations and Knowledge Management
The Library Intern will assist with the efficient management and operation of the Department’s library resources, contributing to knowledge accessibility and information management. The intern will:
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Support the organization, cataloguing, and classification of library materials
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Maintain both physical and digital collections to ensure accessibility
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Provide professional customer service to internal staff and external visitors
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Assist with the development of library records, databases, and indexes
This role allows graduates to develop a solid foundation in library operations, information management, and public service delivery while gaining valuable professional exposure.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The successful candidate will perform the following duties:
1. Library Operations and Administration
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Assist with the daily management of the library
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Ensure proper handling and storage of all library materials
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Maintain a neat and organized library environment
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Assist with circulation, check-in/check-out, and inventory control
2. Cataloguing and Classification of Library Materials
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Process new library acquisitions
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Catalog and classify books, journals, and digital resources according to accepted standards
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Maintain accuracy in library records and metadata
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Update digital catalogues and databases
3. Digital Library and Database Management
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Support the management of electronic and digital library resources
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Assist with data entry, database updates, and digital indexing
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Ensure accessibility and retrieval of digital content for staff and researchers
4. Customer Service and Patron Assistance
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Assist visitors with locating resources, research queries, and reference requests
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Provide guidance on the use of library systems and tools
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Maintain courteous and professional communication with patrons
5. Reporting and Documentation
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Prepare reports on library usage and circulation
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Support the documentation of library processes and workflow
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Assist with compiling statistical and operational information for management
Why This Internship Offers Strong Career Benefits
Professional Development
Interns gain exposure to:
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Library and information management best practices
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Cataloguing and metadata standards
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Customer service within a professional environment
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Digital resource management and knowledge sharing
This internship equips graduates with transferable skills relevant to library services, knowledge management, records management, and administrative roles.
Structured Government Internship
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Receive a monthly stipend of R7 860.50
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Mentorship from experienced library professionals
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Practical experience in public service information management
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Exposure to operational and strategic aspects of library and knowledge services
Career Progression Opportunities
Successful completion of this internship can lead to:
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Librarian or Library Assistant positions
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Knowledge Management Specialist
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Records and Information Officer
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Administrative and archival roles in government or private organizations
This role creates a springboard for a professional career in Library and Information Science.
Employment Equity Statement
The Department of Employment and Labour is committed to fair and inclusive hiring practices. Preference may be given to candidates who:
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Support employment equity goals for race, gender, and disability inclusion
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Are from previously disadvantaged backgrounds
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Contribute to youth development in public service
All appointments are made under transparent, merit-based processes in line with public service regulations.
How to Apply – Submission Guidelines
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
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A fully completed new Z83 application form
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A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Shortlisted applicants may later be asked to provide certified copies of:
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Identity document
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Academic transcripts
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Relevant qualifications
Application Method
Applications must be submitted through the SA Youth Portal:
Apply for Library Internship – Project 20K
Search for Ref No: HR/P20K/IL/HO
Late submissions will not be accepted.
Enquiries
For more information, contact:
SA Youth Contact Centre
Tel: 0800 727272
Explore More Government Internship Opportunities in Library and Information Services
This internship is an ideal opportunity for young South African graduates to gain hands-on experience in library and information management, develop professional skills, and prepare for a long-term career in knowledge and public administration services.
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