Tag: Adriaanse Library

  • Big Dreams and Bright Futures at Adriaanse Library Career Expo

    Senior Library Assistant Xavier Januarie addresses students at the Adriaanse Library Career Expo

    Bringing the LIS vision of “Connecting Information, People and Spaces” to life, Adriaanse Public Library hosted an inspiring Career Expo on 7 May for the local youth. The event welcomed over 112 Grade 10 and 11 learners from nearby Marian High Catholic School, accompanied by their educators. The library team collaborated with various community stakeholders and the Adriaanse Clinic to put together a diverse panel of speakers. Local Ward Councilor Charles Esau was also in attendance, warmly thanking the guest speakers and encouraging the learners to make informed, inspired choices about their future paths.

    Senior Library Assistant Xavier Januarie served as the MC, doing an excellent job of keeping the students fully engaged. Xavier shared his own inspiring story of starting out as a volunteer and rising through the ranks, celebrating a milestone of 15 years with the City of Cape Town this past January. The learners also heard from Adriaanse Library’s Librarian-in-Charge, Yvette Du Preez, who shared her beautiful 28-year journey of growth within the very library she now leads. The inspiring lineup was completed by Sister Nicole Gerner (Adriaanse Clinic), Carley Cupido (Social Worker at the Cape Town Multi-Service Centre), who touched on the importance of mental wellness during career growth and local entrepreneur Karin Ruiters.

    A selection of books on display showcasing various career paths at the expo

    The library floor was alive with color, featuring vibrant career displays and resourceful pamphlets. Every student walked away with a specially designed career guidance booklet and questionnaire, created by Xavier, to help them navigate their future decisions. While it may have been an intimate community gathering, the impact on these young minds was immense, proving once again that our libraries are vital launchpads for tomorrow’s leaders.

    By: Yvette Du Preez

    Senior Librarian

    Adriaanse Library

  • Adriaanse Library Commemorates ‘Movember Men’ – A month of growth, brotherhood and purpose

    Adriaanse Library’s Movember Men initiative, originally launched in 2019 as a small boys’ group, has since grown into a powerful month-long programme dedicated to uplifting and empowering men of all ages. Each year, the library tackles socio-economic challenges faced by men in the community, while promoting literacy and showing how reading can positively influence daily life.

    This year’s Movember Men 2025 programme started on a high note with guest speaker Shane Jonas, a bodybuilder and fitness trainer. He shared how fitness transformed his life, reminding the audience that wellness is not only about aesthetics but about discipline, balance and long-term success. His message was supported by library resources, from nutrition guides to exercise books, helping attendees see how reading can support a healthy lifestyle. The men were inspired to learn that fitness can be fun, fulfilling and financially rewarding.

    Our second speaker, Tyron Scholtz, a business consultant, delivered a powerful session on DigiPreneurship. He encouraged the men to value themselves before money and demonstrated how digital entrepreneurship can open new doors. Many were moved to discover that with a single book, a cellphone and free library resources, one can start generating passive income and create real opportunities. His message ignited hope and excitement, especially among the youth.

    To close Movember Men with a bang, the library hosted a membership drive featuring stance cars and modified show vehicles. The aim was to attract both young and older men by showing that there is more to life than drugs, alcohol and gangsterism. Attendees explored library materials that support automotive interests—from mechanical skills to engineering concepts—highlighting how the library can help fuel positive passions.

    Throughout the month, Movember Men created a safe space at the library where men could share ideas, speak openly, learn from one another and build a sense of brotherhood. The programme reminded everyone that growth is possible when a community stands together. Adriaanse Library looks forward to expanding this movement even further in the coming years, continuing to inspire, empower and equip the men of our community.

    Xavier Januarie

    Assistant Librarian

    Adriaanse Library