LIASA - WWIS Research Support Librarian Award 2025

Research Support Librarians play a vital role in facilitating access to information resources and assisting researchers, students, and patrons in conducting effective research. They will curate and manage collections, provide reference services, and contribute to the organization and dissemination of knowledge within the library or academic institution.

Their expertise in information retrieval and library sciences will be instrumental in supporting the information needs of library user. They have in-depth knowledge around scholarly communication and research methodology and would often work on how to integrate and advance information technology into libraries

The goal of the "Research Support Librarian" award, presented by WWIS in partnership with LIASA, is to recognise and reward the exceptional efforts of research support librarians, fostering a culture of excellence in the field. By acknowledging outstanding contributions, the award aims to encourage continuous dedication to research support and inspire others in the library community to strive for excellence.

Timeline:

1. Call for nominations: 10 June 2025
2. Closing of nominations: 30 June 2025
3. Shortlisting of finalists: 04– 08 August 2025
4. Finalist interviews: 30 September 2025
5. Announcement of winners: 03 October 2025 at the LIASA 2025 Conference Dinner, Boardwalk Hotel, Casino & Convention Centre, Gqeberha

Selection Criteria

All nominees will be evaluated on the following criteria:

Research Support Profile

The candidate should display a track record of providing research support activities in the industry through knowledge sharing. Demonstrate the ability to utilise multiple research support tools, bibliometrics and other metrics.

LIS Role in Institution

The candidate should demonstrate understanding of how the library is embedded in the research lifecycle within the institution and the research support provided to various units. The candidate should be involved in:

• Guiding researchers in identifying peer-reviewed publications
• Understanding of NRF ratings
• Provide continuous professional development activities through different means

• Teaching & learning activities
• Researcher training
• Research event participation and collaboration

Eligibility

The following groups of people are not eligible for this award:

• LIASA Board members
• LIASA staff
• WWIS staff

The following groups of people are eligible for this award:

• LIASA Paid-up members who meet the selection criteria
• Nominees must be actively working in the field of research support
• Nominees must have a minimum of 5 years of experience in library services

Nomination

The nomination must include:

• A nomination form to be completed and signed by the nominator and the nominee
• Self-nominations are accepted
• A motivation statement of a maximum of 300 words to be completed by the nominator (1.5 spacing, 12-point font), indicating the motivation for the nomination
• A clear, colour, digital, head and shoulder photo (in .jpg, .jpeg, or .png) that will be used for promotional purposes. LIASA and the sponsor reserve the right not to use photos of inferior quality.
  

Downloads:

• Call for nominations
  
• Nomination Form
  

 Send the completed nomination form and all the required documents to awards@liasa.org.za