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Category: June 2026

  • Beyond the Bookshelf: What Acquisitions Actually Involves

    When patrons walk into a library and pick a book off the shelf, the focus is usually on the story, the information or the author. Rarely does anyone stop to think about how that book arrived there in the first place. Before joining Acquisitions as a newly appointed Assistant Professional Officer (APO), I didn’t fully appreciate the journey either. Acquisitions often works quietly in the background, but it plays a central role in shaping what communities ultimately have access to.

    One of my earliest lessons in Acquisitions was realising that the work goes far beyond ordering titles. Every decision sits at the intersection of budget, policy, demand, and timing. A single book represents multiple steps. From selection and approval to sourcing, ordering, and tracking, all within clearly defined public sector processes. What looks like a simple purchase is a carefully considered decision that balances reader needs with financial responsibility.

    A key part of Acquisitions work is ensuring that the way in which libraries build their collections aligns with approved policies, standard operating procedures and collection development plans. These frameworks guidebook selection, budgeting and help to ensure consistency, accountability, and equity across the service. While libraries do purchase resources at branch level in response to their respective community needs, these processes filter through Acquisitions. This ensures that selections align with policy, budgets are managed responsibly, and procurement processes comply with public sector requirements.

    Acquisitions also supplement library budgets through initiatives such as Special Buys. These targeted purchases help strengthen collections, address gaps and respond to high-demand areas that may not be fully covered by individual branch budgets. In this manner, Acquisitions extends the impact and reach of available resources, ensuring broader and more equitable access across libraries. Working in Acquisitions means understanding that choices matter. Budgets are finite and every item selected represents an opportunity cost. Shelves are not accidental or random, they are curated outcomes shaped by data, professional judgement and collaboration.

    Much of the role involves constant communication with selectors, branch staff, the cataloguing team, the team in processing, vendors, supply chain management and finance units. Each interaction ensures that the right materials reach the right libraries at the right time. This collaborative nature has been one of the most valuable learning experiences in my role. It highlighted how interconnected library work truly is. Each day brings new insights into systems, workflows, and responsibilities that I had previously taken for granted while working at library level.

    Being part of Acquisitions has reshaped my understanding of how much planning, negotiation and coordination is required to support front-line library services. This learning process has been both humbling and enriching, reinforcing the complexity and significance of work that often remains unseen. This journey would not be possible without the support and guidance of those around me. I would like to express my gratitude to my colleagues in Acquisitions for their patience, generosity, and willingness to share knowledge. Their collective experience has made navigating this learning curve both manageable and rewarding.

    I am equally grateful to my line manager, Naziem Hardy and Head, Lisa Kistain for the opportunity to grow into this role and for walking this journey with me. As a newly appointed APO, working in Acquisitions has shifted my perspective entirely. Every time I see a new title arrive at a branch or go live on a digital platform, I am reminded that behind that moment is a network of people, processes and decisions working together to serve our communities. Behind every book on the shelf is far more than a transaction. It reflects collective effort, responsibility and commitment to public service.

    Gianni-Qyn Brinkhuys

    Assistant Professional Officer

    Collection Development Unit: Acquisitions

  • The Power of Pages: How One Imperial Primary Student is Inspiring Us All

    Town Centre Librarian Makhabelandile Masizana, Teacher Jenny Rustin, Librarian Andrea Phillips, Imperial learner, Mrs. Ismail and Librarian Patricia April

    The Town Centre library team visited Imperial Primary School in Mitchells Plain to present a prize to a learner who excelled in our Reading Challenge by reading the most books. This achievement was made even more special by the inspiring story behind it. The learner’s teacher, Miss Ismail, shared that she had once struggled with reading and did not perform well academically. With dedication and care, Miss Ismail reached out to the learner’s mother and encouraged her to read more often with her child.

    The learner’s mother began bringing her daughter to the library every second week to select books. As librarians, we were proud to support her journey by providing access to engaging reading material, guidance in choosing age-appropriate books and creating a welcoming space that encouraged her love for reading. Over time, the learner’s reading skills, vocabulary and confidence improved, leading to better academic results. The excitement and pride from the teachers during our visit were truly uplifting, showing how valued and impactful this achievement is within the school community.

    This story highlights the powerful role we all play, teachers guiding and motivating, parents supporting and encouraging and librarians providing resources and safe spaces for learning. This success reminds us that small, consistent efforts can lead to powerful outcomes. Let us continue working together to inspire young readers and build brighter futures – one book at a time.

    Patricia April

    Librarian

    Mitchell’s Plain Town Centre Library

  • BRICK Club launches at Fish Hoek Library: Building our community, one brick at a time

    On World Play Day, 28 May 2026, Fish Hoek Library launched something that already feels a little magical. Together with our Fish Hoek Library Homeschoolers group, we opened the doors to BRICK Club and had the world of fun.

    A very special part of the day was welcoming Lorinda Le Roux from the Durbanville Library Homeschoolers group, who came all the way through to support us in launching the club. It truly made the circle shine bigger. It reminded us that library work is never done alone. There is something incredibly powerful about showing up for one another, sharing ideas and creating spaces together. Thank you, Lorinda, for travelling all the way from Durbanville to Fish Hoek just to share the magic.

    The partnership with BRICK Club SA has brought a vibrant space to our community, where children can imagine, build, problem-solve, connect and simply play. Every second week, our young builders meet to indulge in creative magic through carefully selected themes that link to what they are currently experiencing and learning through seasons, storytelling, culture and discovery. Sessions align with the CAPS curriculum through beginning knowledge, problem solving, history, cultural exploration and also make space for those beautiful ad hoc moments of free play where children lead their own learning.

    What makes this especially meaningful in a public library space is that libraries have always been about access. Today that means more than books. It means creating opportunities. It means seeing the gap and becoming the bridge. Brick play develops creativity, communication, spatial awareness, resilience and confidence. Children learn to test ideas, work through challenges and tell stories through building. Parents gain opportunities to connect with their children and with one another. Libraries become places where relationships are built alongside models and imagination becomes something shared.

    One of the most exciting parts of this project is seeing community lead community. Libraries do not always need to have all the answers, sometimes our role is to open the door, bring people together and trust that incredible things will happen. We are excited to share that BRICK Club sessions will open to the public once a month, with the first public session scheduled for Saturday, 27 June in honour of Youth Month. The community club will continue on the last Saturday of every month.

    By: Ashleigh Wessels

    Children’s Librarian

    Fish Hoek Library

  • The Heart of Hout Bay Library: Saying Goodbye to Desiree van Ster

    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.

    By: Tarcia Eiman

    Professional Officer

    Marketing & Communications

  • A Legacy of Leadership: Celebrating Christelle Lubbe’s Incredible Journey with PSP

    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.

    By: Tarcia Eiman

    Professional Officer

    Marketing & Communications

  • Meet Angelo Drage, Principal Technical Assistant: The Library Aide Who Designed His Own Destiny

    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.

    By: Tarcia Eiman

    Professional Officer

    Marketing & Communications

  • Stepping Into the Matrix: My time with the “Learn to Breathe Again” Workshop

    Timothy Williams alongside participants at the Matrix Workshop held at Southfield Library

    Over four weeks between May and June, Library and Information Services teamed up with City Health, Project Exodus, Action Change and Dorothy Dyer to host a transformative writing workshop series at Southfield Library. The initiative brought together participants from various Matrix and rehabilitation programmes, creating a safe, supportive space to explore the healing power of personal storytelling. Through structured writing exercises and drawing, attendees were guided to craft narratives reflecting their lived experiences, touching on challenges, personal growth and triumphs over addiction and stigma.

    A standout moment occurred at the very first session, where deeply moving accounts of recovery sparked profound introspection, vulnerability and empathy amongst the group. The workshop provided a safe platform to share personal experiences, especially for those that are often silenced due to stigma. Participants came to recognize that expressing their stories in written form offers validation and acknowledgment of their lived realities. For me, being a part of this programme during my job-shadowing tenure was an absolute highlight. Witnessing participants realise that their stories matter, and seeing how creative expression can challenge societal misconceptions, was incredibly inspiring.

    Overall, the “Learn to Breathe Again” writing workshop stands as a powerful reminder of the healing, connecting and empowering nature of storytelling. By enabling participants to share their journeys, particularly those marked by recovery and resilience, the programme honoured these experiences and ensured that they all felt seen, heard and remembered.

    By: Timothy Williams

    Assistant Librarian

    Plumstead Library

  • Masithethe – Kom Praat – Let’s Talk!

    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

  • Four Areas, Four Audiences: Going beyond the Library Building for South African Library Week 2026!

    The SALW 2026 Road March set the perfect tone for a week of celebration in our Four Areas

    The heart of SALW 2026 lay in the four area‑based integrated events with each offering a uniquely tailored, purposeful and perfectly pitched experience to its audience.

    Area South opened the week-long celebrations at Wynberg Civic Centre with an uplifting event aimed at our seniors. Music, movement, storytelling, encouragement and health services came together beautifully, leaving over 120 attendees both nourished and uplifted.

    A special morning enjoyed by Seniors at the Area South event in Wynberg

    Area Central broke new ground at Bellville Civic Centre with an event focused on people sleeping rough – a courageous and compassionate first for LIS. The programme was rich and real, featuring lived‑experience stories of recovery, pathways back into employment, rehabilitation support, SAPS engagement, City Health services and the inspiring I‑Care Card initiative from our very own Bellville Library. The day closed with a shared meal, dignity intact and hope restored.

    The Area Central event sparked a room full of emotions in Bellville

    Area North brought pure joy to Mamre Library Hall, where Grade R learners experienced storytelling, animal demonstrations, music, dancing, face painting and environmental learning. LiBee danced. Bingo taught. Laughter filled the hall. For many of these children, it was their first unforgettable library experience.

    Area North bringing an unforgettable gees at their integrated event in Mamre

    Area East concluded the week in spectacular fashion at the Harare Library in Khayelitsha – a true gem. Here, learning, culture and celebration blended seamlessly. Learners, community members and leaders shared a stage to speak about reclaiming knowledge, honouring oral history and securing futures. The message was powerful and the atmosphere electric.

    Culture and celebration blends seamlessly at the Area East event in Harare

    Across all four areas, the integrated events were well organised, well attended and deeply meaningful. We look forwarding to seeing what SALW 2027 has in store!

    By: Merle Collins

    Head: Marketing & Communications

    Library & Information Services

  • Empowering Communities: Bonteheuwel Library Brings the Inspiring WISE Programme to Life

    Bonteheuwel Library hosting their WISE programme with women from the local community

    In March 2026, Bonteheuwel Library proudly hosted the Women in Self-Empowerment (WISE) Programme, a four-week initiative aimed at empowering, educating and uplifting women in the community. Held every Wednesday, the programme created a safe and supportive space where women could learn, connect and grow through meaningful engagement and shared experiences.

    A group photo of the WISE 2026 programme graduates alongside Bonteheuwel Library staff

    Each week featured dynamic speakers and partners who addressed key themes, including personal development, financial literacy, emotional well-being, safety and resilience. Highlights from the programme included an inspiring opening address by Ward Councillor McKenzie, motivational sessions from Vision Talks and SANLAM, mental health and caregiving support from the Desmond Tutu Foundation and Khethimpilo Home-Based Carers, and practical self-defense training.

    WISE participants engage in a self-defense class

    The event featured powerful testimonies and vital discussions around gender-based violence, healing, and transformation shared by the Saartjie Baartman Centre for Women and Children and guest speakers, offering profound hope and encouragement. The programme concluded with a deeply moving closing ceremony that left participants inspired and motivated to continue their personal empowerment journeys. Looking ahead, the library is excited to host many more successful WISE programmes as we remain dedicated to uplifting and empowering the resilient women of our community.

    By: Patricia April

    Librarian

    Bonteheuwel Library