The Special Collections Unit of the Department of Library Services is once again inviting University of Pretoria staff and students to embark on an extraordinary journey through time with our behind-the-scenes tours. Since 1932, our unit has been dedicated to preserving and acquiring rare and valuable information resources, beginning with the establishment of the Africana collection.

Our curated collections, including the Africana Collection, UP Publications (TUK) Collection, and Reserved Collection, offer insights into the geographical, historical, and cultural development of Africa south of the Sahara, as well as publications produced by or about the University of Pretoria, and non-Africana books of antiquarian and preservation value.

Discover the treasures held within our collections, such as a 19th-century facsimile edition of Shakespeare’s First Folio, a signed collector’s edition of Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela, Bayān al-Dīn, the oldest surviving Afrikaans-in-Arabic script publication, and Abantu Abamnyama, Lapa Bavela Ngakona, the first South African History book in isiZulu.

Our Special Collections tours, open to all University staff and students, offer a glimpse into these remarkable artifacts and historical documents. Limited to 15 people per tour and lasting approximately one hour, these tours have garnered popularity since their inception last year. They have even extended beyond the University, attracting school groups and piquing the interest of various departments seeking specialized tours.

Tours are scheduled monthly, excluding recess and exam periods. For further information and to book your spot, please visit the Library’s event page or contact [email protected] to arrange specialized tours. Join us as we unlock the secrets of history within the Department of Library Services Special Collections.