Department of Library Services Newsletter - Issue 1 - 2025

05 May 2025
This newsletter highlights collaborative initiatives, news, and updates of the Department of Library Services, aimed at supporting the university's academic agenda and make a positive impact on the broader community. Enquiries can be directed to Zenzile Ntshabele ([email protected]) or Mpho Gagane ([email protected])

Department of Library Services Newsletter

Director's Welcome Message
Lindiwe Soyizwapi

Welcome back and all the best for 2025

As we begin the first semester of 2025, I extend a warm welcome to our entire university community. We were delighted to welcome our first-year students during Orientation Week and now embrace all students, new and returning, who form part of the dynamic, diverse community that defines the University of Pretoria.

As the Department of Library Services, we pride ourselves on being an integral part of professional services that empower our students to excel in their academic journey and graduate on time. Our mission aligns closely with that of the University, which is to provide quality education for all students on their journey to becoming responsible global citizens.  

Equally important is our continued support for academic staff and researchers through our services and resources designed to enhance teaching, learning, and research excellence. As the academic landscape evolves, we remain committed to partnering with our colleagues to advance research impact, knowledge creation, and innovation.

This year, we reaffirm our commitment to service excellence through several key priorities. We aim to enhance capacity across the department by investing in the development, training, and reskilling of our staff. These efforts are vital as we review and refine roles and workflows in response to evolving needs.

We also remain committed to engaging meaningfully with our users to ensure inclusive and impactful services. We also continue to reflect on how our spaces serve all students, especially those with special needs. Inclusivity remains at the heart of our user experience initiatives.

Looking ahead, we are excited to host a User Experience Conference (UP TechX Conference) later this year. We encourage all colleagues to stay informed and participate in this important opportunity to learn, connect, and innovate together.

Wishing you a productive and enriching year ahead.

- Author: Lindiwe Soyizwapi

News and Events

Orientation Week 2025: The Ultimate Library Adventure!
EmpowerED: Navigating Knowledge, Research, and Innovation
Voices That Inspire: Celebrating World Read Aloud Day with Stories, Smiles, and Community Impact
Library Week 2025: Libraries for Sustainable Communities
Bhengu Research Archive Donation Seminar
Celebrating 10 Years of Innovation: The Makerspace Turns a Decade Old
Celebrating World Book and Copyright Day at the Education Library
World of Wonder: A Night of Poetry, Reflection, and Rebellion
Easter Cheer in the Library: Egg Hunt and Quiz Spark Student Joy and Engagement
Copyright Refresher Highlights for World Book and Copyright Day
Celebrating World Book Day with Our Youngest Readers

Visitors

The Library Hosts Delegation from Portugal

Staff News

Welcome - Boitumelo Mahlangu
Welcome - Clementine Mothapo
Welcome - Precious Mahlangu
Welcome - Dolly Shabangu
Farewell - Monia Johnson

Conferences

ACLR - Democratizing Knowledge, Access, and Opportunities