Putting Mandela Month into action, Brooklyn Library staff shared sandwiches and kindness at Albow Gardens Clinic during a community outreach initiative supported by Councillor Francine Higham
One of the highlights of working in Marketing & Communications is getting the opportunity to visit our libraries and see community engagement in action. Each engagement offers a unique opportunity to showcase the incredible work our library teams do , and recently, a visit to Brooklyn Library to commemorate Mandela Day felt especially meaningful.
Long before the first sandwich was handed out, the Brooklyn Library team had already invested in something far more valuable than time: heart. From early morning, staff rolled up their sleeves and worked together to prepare sandwiches that would later be shared with patients at the neighbouring Albow Gardens Clinic. The atmosphere in the library was warm and purposeful, with every team member contributing to a collective act of kindness that perfectly embodied the spirit of Mandela Month.
Heart at work: Brooklyn Library staff rolled up their sleeves and worked side by side to prepare sandwiches for the Mandela Month outreach, demonstrating the power of teamwork and compassion
At 10h00, library staff made the short walk to the clinic, carrying not only refreshments but a genuine desire to connect with and uplift members of the community. Councillor Francine Higham joined the team on-site, taking part in the occasion and witnessing firsthand the care and compassion that have become hallmarks of Brooklyn Library’s community engagement efforts.
Wrapped in the colours of the nation and the spirit of Mandela Month, a Brooklyn Library staff member helps spread warmth, one cup of soup at a time
What stood out most throughout the morning was the sincerity of the staff. There were no grand gestures or expectations, just a group of dedicated professionals quietly making a positive difference in the lives of others. Their enthusiasm, teamwork and commitment transformed a simple sandwich handover into a memorable act of community service.
MAYCO member for Community Services & Health Councillor Francine Higham alongside Ward Councillor Alderman Antonio van der Rheede and Hanover Park Library staff
There was a moment on Friday, 25 September, standing in the middle of Hanover Park Library, where you could genuinely feel the heartbeat of the community. The room was packed with smiling faces, long-time patrons sharing warm embraces, former staff members reconnecting and community members whose lives have been touched by this incredible facility. The energy was purely magnetic!
Senior Librarian Lucien Ruiters warmly welcomes guests to Hanover Park Library’s 50th anniversary event
For half a century, Hanover Park Library has served as a sanctuary, a launchpad and a welcoming home for generations of residents. From its humble beginnings as a traditional lending facility, it has evolved to meet the changing needs of its neighbourhood, blossoming into the dynamic community hub we see today. The library has bridged the digital divide with SmartCape computer access, fostered a lifelong love of reading through vibrant book clubs and storytelling sessions, and empowered local youth with essential workshops, cultural programmes and engaging holiday activities.
The numbers speak for themselves:
88,166 visitors walked through its doors during the 2025/2026 financial year alone
2,308 active members regularly enjoy its collection
23,943 items were circulated over the past year
576 new members signed up recently, proving that its legacy continues to grow
Whether providing a quiet, safe and secure space for a child to discover their love for reading after school, helping a job seeker craft their CV, or bringing neighbours together for cultural celebrations – Hanover Park Library remains a beacon of hope, opportunity and social connection.
As we look back on 50 remarkable years, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to every team member, past and present, whose dedication, warmth and hard work have kept the facility thriving. Here’s to celebrating five decades of impact and to many more years of empowering the Hanover Park community!
A monumental day for Brackenfell Library as Lonwabo Mabele and LeeAnn Davids take to the stage to accept the Digital Literacy Champion Award celebrating their incredible work and digital advocacy
If you listen closely in any of our libraries across the Mother City, you can hear a subtle kind of magic. It’s in the quiet flip of a picture book page, the click of a young programmer prompt engineering AI and the multilingual chatter echoing from our digital spaces.
Last week, that magic got some very official shine.
At the annual Western Cape Cultural Affairs Awards, hosted by the provincial Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS), the City of Cape Town Library and Information Services brought home four major awards! Out of an impressive pool of 375 public libraries across the province, our teams shone bright, proving once again that our library spaces transcend quiet rooms full of books to serve as vibrant engines of innovation, warmth and transformation.
Spotlight on Our Stellar Winners
A huge, heartfelt congratulations to the passionate teams and visionary projects that brought these trophies home. Here is a closer look at the magic they created:
Reading and Literacy Champion Award: 1 000 Stories Before School Campaign Planting the seed for a lifelong love of reading starts early and our flagship literacy response has grown beyond our wildest dreams. Launched in 2022 as part of the City’s Reading Strategy, this initiative brings together families, educators, health workers and community partners to get books into little hands before formal schooling begins. From 2,464 participants in 2023, the programme blossomed to over 20,571 registered children by mid-2026!
Digital Literacy Champion Award: Brackenfell Public Library & Champion Lonwabo Mabele Brackenfell Library continues to redefine what a modern neighbourhood hub looks like. Lonwabo and the team launched the brilliant Ubuntu Bytes project, where local youth combined practical life skills with cutting-edge tech by using AI tools to craft creative recipe prompts. Talk about cooking up digital empowerment!
Neville Alexander Award for the Promotion of Multilingualism: Athlone Library Languages build bridges and Athlone Library’s innovative Digital Reading Den is a shining example. This pioneering platform bridges our province’s official languages, Afrikaans, English and isiXhosa, creating an inclusive, welcoming space where every reader feels seen, heard and represented.
A huge well-done to the Athlone Library team as they accept the Neville Alexander Award honouring their groundbreaking multilingual work with the Digital Reading Den project
Climate Culture in Action: Sir Lowry’s Pass Library Thoughtfully addressing environmental needs within community spaces, Sir Lowry’s Pass Library was celebrated for its Cool Space Pilot project – a creative demonstration of how public spaces can proactively respond to climate challenges and offer safe, comfortable havens for local residents.
A proud moment for Sir Lowry’s Pass Library as Area Head Rene Walker takes to the stage to collect the Climate Culture in Action Award
To every librarian, assistant, digital facilitator and quiet champion across our department, these trophies carry a piece of your dedication. Every time you spark a child’s imagination, guide a young hand through new technologies, or simply offer a welcoming sanctuary to someone walking through our doors, you weave the very fabric of this success. These awards are the cumulative magic of your daily care! So, here’s to keeping our doors wide open, our minds endlessly curious and our award-winning story turning to its next brilliant page.
Learners listen to inspirational messages about choosing a career path at the Silverlea Primary School Career Expo in Silvertown, Athlone
In August 2026, I had the privilege of participating in a Career Expo hosted by Bridgetown Library at Silverlea Primary School in Athlone, which also happened to be my alma mater. Walking back through those familiar gates was both nostalgic and deeply meaningful, as I had the opportunity to share my professional journey with the next generation of learners.
Leading the day were Librarians Micaela Victor and Robin Nicole Smith, who brought both passion and professionalism to the expo. With energy and warmth, they brilliantly showcased librarianship as a dynamic and rewarding career. Learners arrived armed with thoughtful career questionnaires and Micaela and Robin turned those questions into lively, engaging conversations. By sharing stories of their own career journeys, they not only answered curiosities but also sparked genuine excitement, successfully positioning librarianship as a profession full of purpose, impact and opportunity.
Librarians Micaela Victor and Robin Nicole Smith engaging with learners at Silverlea Primary School
My role was to highlight marketing and communications as a career choice, and more specifically, its role within Library & Information Services. For many learners, this was a new perspective and a career path they may not have considered previously. I spoke about how marketing and communications can be a natural fit for those passionate about English, writing and public speaking and how these skills can be harnessed to amplify the work libraries do in their communities.
Silverlea Primary and Blossom Street Primary learners eagerly jot down responses to their questionnaires while engaging with Bridgetown Librarians and PO: Tarcia Eiman (behind the lens)
What made the day especially memorable was reconnecting with some of the educators who once taught me and now seeing them guide a new generation of learners. To stand in front of those classrooms again, not as a student but as someone imparting knowledge and experience, was a full-circle moment I will always treasure.
The Career Expo reminded me of the power of education and mentorship and how vital it is to show young people the wide range of career paths open to them. For me, it was a chance to give back to the school that laid the foundation for my journey and to encourage learners to dream boldly, to explore possibilities and to believe in the futures they can create for themselves.
Hout Bay Senior Librarian, Desiree van Ster, bids farewell to the department in June 2026
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.
The end of an era! Wishing a very happy retirement to someone who brought unmatched intelligence, endless creativity and a whole lot of heart to team LIS every single day
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.
Angelo Drage joined the marketing & communications team in 2026, pictured here with a few of his incredible book designs
TE: Angelo, your journey from Library Aide to Principal Technical Assistant is the ultimate “started from the bottom, now we’re here” story! Looking back at those early days, did you always know design was your true calling, or was there a specific “aha!” moment that sparked it all?
AD: I think design was always part of me. As a child, I was constantly drawing, creating things and looking at the illustrations in books. But I don’t think there was one specific “aha!” moment. It was more a series of opportunities that confirmed I was on the right path. The biggest turning point was when Hadjira Sydow saw the designs I was sketching while I spent my days at the library looking for work. She gave me a chance to help with a display competition, and that small opportunity changed my life. It taught me that your talents can open doors when you least expect it.
TE: By now we are all aware that you’re a creative powerhouse! While working as a library aide you managed to write a book, illustrate two books, design a mascot for the Environmental Management department and assist multiple departments with their graphics! How did you balance your day job with all that creative output?
AD: I’ve never been very good at sitting still! My mind is always busy with ideas. For me, creativity isn’t work – it’s how I recharge. If someone came to me with a challenge, I saw it as an opportunity to learn something new. I would often work on projects after hours, on weekends, or whenever inspiration struck. I wasn’t focused on recognition or money; I genuinely enjoyed creating things that could help people. I always say my batteries never die, and I think that’s because I love what I do.
TE: You spent countless hours volunteering and building up an incredibly impressive portfolio. You could have gone to any department and yet you chose LIS! What is it about public service and Libraries in particular that keeps you so passionate and driven to design for our communities?
AD: Libraries changed my life. When I was at one of my lowest points, the library gave me a safe space, hope and eventually a career. So, for me, it’s personal. Libraries are one of the few places where everyone is welcome regardless of their background. Every poster, video, mascot or campaign we create has the potential to inspire someone, educate someone or simply make them feel seen. Public service allows me to use creativity for something bigger than myself and that’s what motivates me every day.
TE: Every designer has an origin story. If you had to pick one project from your massive portfolio that you are most proud of, one that was a total game-changer for your confidence, which project would it be and why?
One project that stands out is creating Onke the Otter for Environmental Planning. It was exciting to see an idea grow into a character with a purpose. Onke wasn’t just a mascot; it became a way to connect communities, especially children, to important environmental messages. It reinforced my belief that creativity can educate, inspire and bring people together. Seeing people embrace the character gave me confidence that my work could make a real impact.
TE: Your journey has been incredibly inspiring to anyone looking to make a big career leap. If you could give one piece of advice to a colleague who wants to follow their true passion and grow within the City, what would it be?
AD: Never stop learning and never wait for permission to improve yourself. If there’s something you want to do, start now. Volunteer, take online courses, ask questions, build your skills and be willing to put in the extra effort. I was fortunate to have incredible mentors throughout my journey. Tracey Muir Rix, Christelle Lubbe and Mike Klink (Chairperson and Program director of Friends of the Library) believed in me, encouraged me and challenged me to think bigger than my circumstances. Having mentors can change your life, but you also must be willing to put in the work. Most importantly, don’t let your current position define your future potential. Growth happens when you keep showing up, keep learning and keep believing that you’re capable of more.
TE: To wrap things up, what is it about our libraries that keeps you so inspired, what is your next big creative dream, and just for fun, tell us a completely random fact about Angelo Drage that LIS staff might be surprised to learn?
What inspires me most about libraries is their ability to change lives. I’ve experienced that personally. Every day we have an opportunity to make a difference in someone’s story, whether it’s through information, education, creativity or simply providing a welcoming space. My next big creative dream is to continue developing mascots and creative identities across departments because I believe storytelling and memorable characters help communities connect with important services. I’d also love to expand LiBee the Library Bee into books, animation and even a video game that encourages reading and learning.
On 26 May 2026, we sadly said farewell to the LIS Professional Support EPWP Project and our 7th and final cohort of graduates. Launched in 2019 as the Work Study project, this remains the only LIS EPWP initiative focused on core public library operations. By targeting local Library and Information Science (LISC) students and graduates, the project provided vital exposure to the public library environment, preparing them for permanent employment.
Participants received in-house training in shelving and book knowledge, alongside a Work Readiness Workshop covering CV writing, interviewing, and workplace ethics. The success is clear: 21.8% (42 of 193) secured permanent departmental employment. We look back over seven years with immense gratitude and pride and are excited to share testimonials from our 9 final participants. Their feedback reflects a renewed passion for libraries and a drive to succeed, illustrating the powerful impact of the project, mentorship, and their own contributions to our libraries.
Akhona Qokoqa – Mfuleni library
“During my time at the library, I was responsible for children’s storytelling sessions on Fridays, teenage book clubs, displays and information literacy programmes. I am committed to building my career where I can combine my skills with service to the public”. – Akhona Qokoqa, Mfuleni Library
Akhona with staff from Mfuleni Library, ready for the World Book Day Programme and kitted in their LIASA t-shirts: Nolubabalo Memani, Senior Librarian; Akhona Qokoqa (seated) and Zonke Macala, Senior Library Assistant
Mushfeeqah Johnson (Abzal) – Delft library
“Joining the Delft Library felt like a dream come true. Every day I assisted patrons with their information enquiries, connecting people with resources, knowledge and opportunities that enriched their lives. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my tenure was participating in numerous outreach programmes. Thank you, Delft Library, for the opportunity to serve. I leave with gratitude to the staff members that made a great impact on me “. – Mushfeeqah Johnson (Abzal) – Delft library
In this edition of the newsletter, we pause to honour the lives and legacies of three remarkable members of our library family who have recently passed away. While they served in different capacities and communities, they shared a common devotion to the mission of literacy, service and the spirit of our department.
We remember with deep affection:
Shelley-Ann D. Offizi Library Aide, Collection Development Unit. Beyond her diligent work within the Collection Development Unit, Shelley-Ann was the heart and soul of the garden at our Ndabeni office. She poured extra care and attention into the soil, lovingly beautifying the outdoor space to create a sanctuary for her colleagues to enjoy. We will miss her vibrant sense of humor and her refreshing authenticity.
Ntombikayisa Lukashe Library Aide, Westridge Library. A pillar of the Westridge team, Ntombikayisa was described as one of the most energetic, kind and esteemed people to work alongside. She carried herself with an unwavering sense of dignity and grace and her presence was a true gift to both her teammates and the community she so passionately served.
Renee Cohen Librarian, Hout Bay Library. As a librarian in Hout Bay, Renee was a guide and a mentor to many. Known for her profound passion for knowledge, she had a rare ability to connect people with the stories and information they needed, often acting as a mentor to those just beginning their journey into the world of literacy.
“The library is a place where spirits live, and those who spend their lives within them leave a piece of themselves behind.”
Though they are no longer with us, their contributions continue to live on through the stories told and the lives touched across our department. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies remain with their families, friends and the teams at Westridge, Hout Bay, and the Ndabeni Office.
Balancing a full-time career with high-level research is no small feat, but Lonwabo Mabele, Librarian at Brackenfell Library, has officially crossed the finish line successfully completing his master’s degree at the University of Cape Town. Beyond the extra letters behind his name, his journey is a testament to the passion and dedication that drive our department forward. I sat down with him to chat about the highs, hurdles and fresh insights he’s bringing back to the stacks.
T: Completing a Master’s at UCT is a massive milestone. Looking back on the long nights and intensive research, what was the most rewarding part of this academic journey for you personally?
L: The most rewarding part of this journey was seeing how my research connected directly to the real work we do in libraries every day. There were many late nights, moments of doubt, and long stretches of reading and writing, but what made it meaningful was knowing that the work was not just academic. It was about representation, access, and ensuring that libraries remain safe and inclusive spaces for everyone. Personally, completing this Master’s also affirmed my resilience. Balancing full time work, community initiatives, and research pushed me in ways I had never experienced before. Walking away from UCT knowing that I contributed to a meaningful conversation within librarianship was incredibly fulfilling.
T: As a Librarian who is constantly pushing boundaries within our department, how has your time at UCT influenced the way you view the future of Library & Information Services?
L: My time at UCT completely transformed how I view the future of Library and Information Services. I now see libraries as active socio-political spaces that shape knowledge, identity and belonging. This experience strengthened my belief that libraries must move beyond traditional roles and embrace digital curation, inclusive collections and community driven programming. It also reinforced the importance of innovation, collaboration and continuous learning. The future of libraries in Cape Town lies in being responsive, inclusive, and proactive, and my studies have given me both the confidence and the tools to help shape that future.
T: Your thesis titled: “Socio-political examination of the curation and dissemination of LGBTIA+ multimedia: A case of the University of Cape Town,” addresses such a nuanced and vital area of librarianship. What was the ‘spark’ or the specific observation in your professional or personal experiences that inspired you to dive so deeply into this particular topic?
L: The spark came from noticing gaps in representation within collections and programming. In my professional experience, I observed that while libraries aim to serve diverse communities, certain voices and stories were still underrepresented, particularly LGBTIA plus multimedia resources. This raised important questions for me about who decides what gets curated, how materials are shared, and what socio-political factors influence those decisions. I wanted to explore how institutions like libraries could become more intentional in ensuring that all communities see themselves reflected in the knowledge we preserve and disseminate. That curiosity quickly grew into a deep commitment to explore this topic further.
T: You’ve been recognised as quite the trailblazer for innovation within our department. How do you plan to take the insights from your research and apply them to the way we serve our diverse communities in Cape Town?
L: I plan to apply my research by strengthening inclusive curation practices, developing community informed collections, and creating programming that reflects the diversity of Cape Town. This includes leveraging digital platforms, collaborating with community organisations, and encouraging staff to think critically about representation in our spaces. My goal is to ensure that our libraries continue to evolve as welcoming environments where everyone feels seen, heard and valued. Innovation for me is not only about technology but also about reimagining how we connect people to knowledge and to one another.
T: Every researcher faces moments where the path forward seems unclear. What would you say was the biggest challenge you encountered while examining the socio-political aspects of curation?
L: The biggest challenge was navigating the sensitive and complex socio-political nature of the topic. It required careful consideration, ethical awareness, and thoughtful engagement with diverse perspectives. At times, finding relevant literature and balancing academic rigor with real world experiences was challenging. I navigated this by staying grounded in my purpose, seeking guidance from my supervisor, and continuously reflecting on how my research could contribute positively to the field. Patience, persistence and passion carried me through the most difficult moments.
T: For your colleagues within the department who might be considering furthering their studies or looking for ways to bring more innovation into their libraries, what is one piece of advice you’d share with them?
L: My advice would be to remain curious and never underestimate the value of your ideas. Innovation often starts with observing challenges in your daily work and asking how things can be done differently. Further studies are not only about qualifications but about growth, confidence, and expanding your impact. Start small, stay consistent, and surround yourself with supportive colleagues who encourage your journey. Every step you take toward learning ultimately benefits the communities we serve.
T: They say trailblazers never stay in one place for too long! Now that the Master’s cap and gown are tucked away, what comes next for Lonwabo Mabele? Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
L: The journey certainly does not stop here. In the next five years, I see myself continuing to lead innovative initiatives within Library and Information Services, contributing to policy development, and expanding digital literacy and inclusive curation efforts across Cape Town. I am also interested in further research, mentorship, and strengthening the role of libraries as transformative community spaces. Ultimately, I hope to continue growing as a person who inspires change and empowers both staff and communities through knowledge and innovation.
