TE: First of all, Christelle, working with you has been a true privilege. You’ve had an amazing 27-year journey with the City’s Library & Information Services! Reflecting on that time, what are one or two major milestones or transformations that you are proudest to have championed?
CL: Looking back over 27 years with Library & Information Services, I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of so many meaningful milestones – moments where we did not just serve communities but helped to transform lives.
One of my earliest and most rewarding experiences was at Milnerton Library, where I helped establish an ABET centre as an adult librarian. What began modestly with three volunteers teaching eight adults to read and write, grew into something truly life changing. By the time I left, we were proudly handing out 63 certificates to learners who had completed their reading levels. Seeing that journey unfold remains one of my most treasured achievements.
As a Senior Librarian at Central Library, I was part of another major transformation: the move from City Hall into the new space at the old Drill Hall. This was more than just a physical relocation, it meant supporting staff through significant change, including training them on the Brocade system after many years of using Bookplus. Standing together as a team on the opening day, welcomed as part of the VIP group and stepping into a brand-new library, was a moment of pride and possibility.
Later, as Chief Librarian at Bellville Library, I led a cultural shift through the campaign “Bellville Library commits to Sensational Customer Service.” It began with our team and a simple but powerful idea: “Turning over a new leaf—it is not about change, it is about growth.” Through weekly meetings and a staff newsletter, we created space for everyone to contribute and take ownership. The result was a motivated, united team that truly lived the vision and delivered exceptional service to the community.
A particularly important milestone for me came as Head of Professional Services and Programmes. For years, I had attended LIASA conferences and felt disheartened by the limited presence of public librarians as presenters. I knew we had powerful stories and expertise to share. This led to the creation of the first Public Library Seminar in 2019, designed by public librarians, for public librarians, with mentorship built in. It exceeded every expectation. I was immensely proud of how our team rose to the occasion, and even more so when many participants went on to present confidently at LIASA conferences, representing LIS with pride.
Looking ahead, I hope that the SILL Academy becomes a lasting legacy – a space where librarians can continue to learn, connect, and grow. Librarianship is not just a profession; it is a vocation that carries deep responsibility. By building a strong network of library leaders, we have the opportunity to evolve our practice and create lasting impact in our communities. Now, more than ever, it is time for us to stand together and be the change our communities rely on.
TE: You are widely respected across the department for your high standards and strong leadership skills. When you look back at your career, especially when navigating the more challenging times, what core values or principles have been your guiding force?
CL: The word resilience is often used lightly, almost as a buzzword – but real resilience is only understood when it is truly tested. Through the many challenges I have faced in my career, I have come to understand that resilience is not just about enduring on your own. It is about recognising when strength comes from others.
There were times when resilience alone was not enough – when what was needed most was care, empathy, and the quiet strength of a team supporting one another. Those moments taught me that leadership is not just about standing strong, but also about creating a space where others feel supported enough to do the same. It is in those “sticky” times that the true character of a team is revealed, and I was fortunate to work alongside people who showed up for each other in meaningful ways.
For me, resilience has always meant showing up, consistently and wholeheartedly for my team, regardless of what I may have been going through personally. It also meant standing beside others when they needed support in return. I learned that sometimes, instead of pushing forward, people simply need empathy, understanding, and a shoulder to lean on.
Another principle that guided me throughout my career is ownership of my professional identity. I took great pride in my role as a librarian, even while I was still learning and making mistakes. I understood early on that I was responsible for my own “brand,” and I chose not to let negativity, or criticism define it. Staying true to my values, and to who I am, allowed me to lead with authenticity and integrity.
I have also always believed that it is not enough to simply point out what is broken – real impact comes from building. Too often, people are quick to criticise but slow to contribute. My approach has always been to invest in others, because I believe that when you uplift those around you, you strengthen yourself in the process.
TE: While you’ve maintained an incredible reputation for being dedicated and focused, you have also deeply inspired and influenced many of us (including those of us with shorter tenures!). What has been the most rewarding part of mentoring and leading LIS staff?
CL: I always believed that one of the greatest joys of being a librarian was helping people find answers. Over time, I discovered something even more meaningful – helping people find their own potential.
Mentoring and leading staff has been the most rewarding part of my journey. Watching someone grow in confidence, find their voice, and step into their own leadership is incredibly powerful. The true reward is seeing them succeed independently, knowing they no longer need you in the same way because they believe in themselves.
I firmly believe that mentorship is not about titles or years of experience. Each of us has something valuable to share. If we invest in one another, we strengthen not only individuals, but the entire profession.
I am proud to be known as a mentor, but even more proud of the people I have had the privilege to support – and to see many of them become mentors themselves. That is where real impact lies.
TE: As you wrap up this incredible chapter in your life, your legacy will undoubtedly carry forward into the future of LIS. If you could leave the team with just one piece of parting advice, what would it be?
CL: If there is one principle I hope will endure, it is this: invest in others to invest in yourself. I believe this spirit has shaped not only my journey, but also the culture of LIS – and will continue to do so long into the future. Build each other, stand together. Because when we grow others, we grow everything!
TE: Let’s end on a high note! Now that you are officially swapping deadlines for total freedom, we have to ask about your “off-the-clock” plans. What is the very first thing you plan to do as a well-deserved gift from “you to you”?
CL: My gift to myself is a six-week journey through Tasmania and other parts of Australia, a celebration of everything that brings me joy. It is a chance to reconnect with what matters most: spending time with family, immersing myself in craft and art and embracing the beauty of travel.
Beyond that, we have taken a bold and exciting step by investing in a campervan, with the dream of exploring South Africa’s hidden gems and back roads over the next few years. It is about slowing down, discovering new perspectives and appreciating the richness of both the journey and the destination.
By: Tarcia Eiman
Professional Officer
Marketing & Communications