TE: Thank you for making the time, Desiree. Looking back over your incredible journey with LIS, and particularly your role as LIC at Hout Bay library, what are one or two of your favourite memories or milestones that define your time serving this unique community?
DvS: What I will remember most is the unwavering commitment to service delivery regardless of the challenges we faced. Every obstacle was an opportunity to adapt and find ways to ensure that people who relied on us continued to receive the support they deserved. There was an understanding that the quality of our service was never negotiable and that sense of purpose carried me through changing circumstances, limited resources and demanding times.
Serving this unique community has been both a privilege and responsibility that reinforced my belief that true impact is measured not by the absence of challenges but by the resilience in overcoming them.
TE: As a Senior Librarian and LIC, you have navigated the evolving landscape of public libraries with grace and leadership. What core philosophies or values have been your anchor when guiding your team and managing the library through seasons of change?
DvS: Through every season of change my philosophy has been that people feel supported when they are informed, valued and empowered. Change is not an easy process but with clarity, consistency and respect it becomes an opportunity for growth rather than a source of uncertainty. My role has been to provide direction while trusting my team to bring their expertise and commitment to the journey. I believe in focusing on solutions instead of obstacles, and that has helped me to navigate change while continuing to deliver high-quality service.
TE: Your dedication to your work has left a lasting impression on everyone around you, from seasoned colleagues to newer faces in the department. What has been the most fulfilling part of watching your staff grow under your guidance?
DvS: I’ve always believed that good leadership is not about creating followers but about creating capable, confident people who can think independently, support one another and continue to grow long after my guidance is no longer needed. Seeing staff develop new skills, step fully into their designated role and find pride in the service they provide has been one of the most fulfilling privileges as a Senior Librarian.
TE: You’ve closed the book on an amazing era here! If you could leave the team and our future library rockstars with just one brilliant piece of advice, what’s your golden nugget?
DvS: Never lose sight of the purpose behind your work. Every decision, every interaction and every service have the potential to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life. Lead with integrity and never underestimate the power of kindness and consistency.
TE: Finally, now that you are officially trading the busy library floor for a brand-new chapter of well-deserved freedom, we have to know, what is the very first thing on your agenda to celebrate this beautiful milestone?
DvS: This may not always be seen as the platform, but indulge me for a minute, my thanks are always to God first for giving me the strength, courage and opportunity to have served is this Department and the City and to now receive this freedom as my reward. I celebrate God first.
Next, I celebrate day one post-LIS as a gift, giving myself the freedom to follow what brings me joy in that moment – a conversation that lingers, a book that inspires a walk in nature or simply the peace of doing nothing at all. I’ve learned that happiness is not found in chasing more but the simple pleasures that awaken joy. Life coaching is my second love, and this is what I’ll be spending a lot more of my time doing.
By: Tarcia Eiman
Professional Officer
Marketing & Communications