This is 1 of 5 proteins that mediates the attachment of the 5S rRNA onto the large ribosomal subunit, stabilizing the orientation of adjacent RNA domains. Forms part of the central protuberance. Modeling places the A and P site tRNAs in close proximity to this protein; the 5S rRNA and some of its associated proteins might help stabilize positioning of ribosome-bound tRNAs. In the 70S ribosome it is thought to contact protein S13 of the 30S subunit (bridge B1b), connecting the 2 subunits; this bridge is implicated in subunit movement. Part of the 50S ribosomal subunit. Interacts with protein L18 and the 5S rRNA, and probably with tRNAs. Forms a bridge to the 30S subunit in the 70S ribosome (By similarity). Belongs to the universal ribosomal protein uL5 family.