Binds 16S rRNA, required for the assembly of 30S particles. Part of the 30S ribosomal subunit. The initiator methionine is created by RNA editing. Approximately 80% of transcripts are edited in young tissue (protonema), while editing declines to 20% of transcripts in mature leaves. RNA editing decreases as the tissue ages. Belongs to the universal ribosomal protein uS14 family.