The celebration of World Book Day at Pretoria Secondary School

World Book Day is an important day on the annual calendar of libraries and the Library and Information Association of South Africa (LIASA).  On Monday, 14 May 2018 Cora Bezuidenhout, Gerda Ehlers, Elsabé Olivier, Westley Smith, Kenny Tshukudu and Anathi Gungu representing the Department of Library Services (DLS) , LIASA MAIG (Marketing and Advocacy Interest Group) and the sponsor Bookmark took to Pretoria Secondary School in the spirit and celebration of this day.

4 weeks earlier the five Grade 11 classes’ learners of Pretoria Secondary School were challenged to prepare a short 5 minute performance or play in which they demonstrate the importance of books and libraries in their lives. In preparation of their plays a short video was produced featuring two UP students who discussed the value of reading, books and libraries. This link was shared with the learners to give them an idea what the judges were looking for in the short plays that they had to perform.

On the morning of 14 May 2018 at 7:30 the University of Pretoria staff members arrived at the school to view and judge the 5 classes’ performances. The air was filled with energy and excitement and it was empowering to watch the creative performances and to hear them share the impact of books in their lives and personal development. 

Learners in the winning grade 11 class each won a gift hamper, sponsored by Bookmark, containing stationery and a book. The winners were elated and we were happy to share in their delight!

A heartfelt thanks to our sponsor Bookmark for their generous hampers.

Elsabé Olivier (DLS), Westley Smith (DLS) and  Anathi Gungu (Bookmark)

LIASA members Elsabé Olivier, Kenny Tshukudu, gerda Ehlers and Cora Bezuidenhout