Department of Library Services Newsletter - Issue 2 - 2023

31 May 2023
This newsletter is intended to convey the events and news of the Department of Library Services. Enquiries can be directed to Mrs. Elsabé Olivier (email: [email protected])

News and Events

The Reopening of the Medical Library with 21st-Century Access

The Department of Library services is thrilled to announce the historic launch of our new and improved 21st-Century Medical Library, which took place on May 3 and 4, 2023.

This initiative represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to redefine the library experience and provide students with extraordinary access to knowledge and innovative learning spaces.

Libraries have undergone a remarkable evolution, transforming from traditional repositories of books and information into vibrant community hubs that foster connection, collaboration, and learning. While books and information remain crucial components of libraries, they now offer a wide range of services and resources that cater to the changing needs and interests of their communities.

The launch of the Medical Library signifies our commitment to embracing these changes and creating a space that meets the needs and aspirations of the diverse community of University of Pretoria students and staff.

During the launch event, Professor de Jager, the Dean of Health Sciences, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "The opening of this library aligns with our goal to break down the barriers between different disciplines and create a unified mindset, as outlined in the strategic plan for the Faculty of Health Sciences."

Lindiwe Soyizwaphi, the Library Director, also addressed the audience, emphasizing the vision behind the launch. She said, "This event underscores our dedication to library spaces that combine intellectual curiosity with technology, providing hybrid learning environments that cater to various forms of study and serve as a hub for connecting with people, resources, and expert assistance from our library staff."

Kabelo Kgarosi, the Health Sciences Library Manager, added to the celebration by stating, "We are here today to commemorate the transformation of this facility, which has been entirely reimagined."

So, what can you expect from the new Medical Library?

We have harnessed the power of technology to create a truly immersive and interactive environment through a state-of-the-art digital platform. This platform seamlessly integrates augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and other cutting-edge technologies to provide an unparalleled level of immersion, creativity, and interactivity.

Users will be able to overlay digital information onto the real world, enhancing their surroundings with virtual objects. Here are some of the key features:

  • Game Centre with "XR ToyBox": This area allows students to overlay virtual objects into the real-world environment, seamlessly blending the physical and digital realms.
  • Interactive Learning Space: Equipped with cutting-edge technology, this space offers a wide variety of areas where students can collaborate, work on projects, engage in discussions, and participate in collaborative learning.

The 21st-Century Medical Library aims to be a place where individuals from all walks of life can come together, breaking down barriers and forging connections that transcend disciplinary boundaries.

University Of Pretoria Faculty Of Health Sciences launches a 21st-century hi-tech library
Driving feet to the Merensky 2 library
Library Services development
The Department of Library Services’ Special Collections Unit has a new access control system
Tapping into powerful stories
Community Engagement and Outreach Focus Group reach out for World Book Day
Meet the Four Winners of The South African Library Week Competition
The Research Commons Hosts Two Successful Events
The Learning Centre goes from strength to strength with various initiatives and partnerships at the beginning of 2023
Book Club Discussion Session
Transformational agreements: more exciting news for UP authors
Giving the gift of reading: The University of Pretoria’s Medical Library donates books
SITA and GIBS Enterprise Development Programme
Department of Student Affairs Manager's training: Appropriate journal selection and EndNote
Participation of Humanities Information Specialists in the Gertrude Shope Annual Dialogue Forum Exhibition
Book launch: The Institute for Creative Dying
Social Media Insights: January – April 2023
DLS celebrates World Book and Copyright Day, on 23 April 2023
A session with NAS (Natural and Agricultural Sciences) postgraduate students
Plant Laboratory Exhibition - Javett Art Centre
Copyright within the library sector
Marketing and Quality Assurance Publications
The Merging of Two Library Engines
Introducing Academic Speed Dating at the Health Sciences Faculty
UP Birthday: Klinikala Library Tour for the VC
UP Final-year Motivational and Information Event
Participation of Humanities Information Specialists in the Gertrude Shope Annual Dialogue Forum Exhibition

Donations

The Pretoria Philately Society donates its library to UP Special Collections
Donation of the novel: “The Imperatives of Revoking Our Silence”
Veterinary Faculty Alum Author Donates Two Copies of Her Novel
Austrian Embassy donates books to UP Department of Library Services

Conferences

The 63rd Annual Conference of the South African Statistical Association 2022

Visitors

Two directors visit the Department of Library Services
Great-granddaughters of Jotello F Soga visit Onderstepoort's Veterinary Library

Staff News

Getting to know our new permanent staff members Thabang, Kholiwe and Winkie
“Tramakassie” award recognises librarian’s efforts
Celebrating our Graduates!
Wishing Farewell to Our Retiring Staff Members
Welcome to our new hourly staff members
Tribute to Brenda Nsanzya
Congratulations to the new EMS Faculty Library Manager