Welcome - Mxolisi Sokhela, Cataloguer

Mxolisi Sokhela joined the Department of Library Services as a Cataloguer in September 2024. In his current position, he is responsible for bibliographic metadata creation (cataloguing), involvement in library strategic projects, and other related tasks. He holds a master’s degree in information science from the University of Zululand.

Prior to joining the University of Pretoria, Mxolisi served as an Assistant Librarian at the National Library of South Africa (NLSA), Cape Town Campus, within the Bibliographic Services and Collection Management division. At NLSA, he was responsible for cataloguing, conducting training sessions for students, participating in strategic projects, and managing claims for non-received South African publications.

Mxolisi also gained valuable experience during his Work Integrated Learning program at the University of Zululand. Additionally, he served as a Library Assistant at Georgetown Public Library in KwaZulu-Natal, where he actively contributed to the development of school libraries in nearby communities.

Mxolisi aspires to pursue continuous professional growth and lifelong learning, engage in research that addresses identified gaps, and provide actionable recommendations to ensure the optimal provision of library services in the 21st century.

Getting to know Mxolisi:

1. What do you do at The UP Library and in what circumstances would I come to you for something?

I create metadata for the library collection. You would come to me if there’s a new monograph to be added to the system or if you need to enhance the discoverability of library materials.

2. What’s one professional skill you’re currently working on?

I’m currently developing my skills in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and project management.

3. If you could write a book about your life, what would the title be, and why?

Challenges of Life Do Not Determine Your Destiny — because challenges are part of the journey, but they don’t define your future.

4. What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?

Reading books regularly.

5. If you could only eat one item for every meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Fish.

6. What book are you reading now?

Kuhlwa Ngomnyama (It’s Getting Dark).