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Tag: Youth Services

  • From Curiosity to Career: Claremont Library Connects Local Community to Endless Possibilities

    The Claremont Library team engaging with learners and job
    seekers during the EmpowerU Career Expo

    On 3 September 2026, Claremont Civic Hall buzzed with energy as local youth, job seekers and industry leaders gathered for the annual EmpowerU Career Expo 2026. Organised by Life Changers in collaboration with Claremont Library and various career partners, the event served as a dynamic platform for career exploration, skills development and lifelong learning.

    Through an established partnership with Life Changers, Claremont Librarian Phindiwe Gana, successfully facilitated Claremont Library’s active participation, securing a prime exhibition space to showcase how municipal library services directly support educational and career advancement.

    The hall brought together a diverse range of educational institutions, training providers, employers and community organisations. Attendees engaged directly with exhibitors to explore study pathways, ask targeted questions, and access crucial job-seeking resources. Phindiwe later took to the stage to address attendees on behalf of the Library and Information Services. Her presentation highlighted:

    • Career Pathways: Opportunities and study trajectories within the library and information profession.
    • Youth & Student Services: Specialised library programmes designed for digital literacy, academic support and career development.
    • Job-Seeking Tools: Free access to public computers, e-resources, and research tools that assist job seekers in navigating the employment landscape.
    Claremont Library staff participating in the EmpowerU Career Expo 2026

    A major highlight of the day was an inspiring address by Wendy Kaizer-Philander, Minister of Social Development, who motivated attendees to pursue their ambitions with resilience. The Claremont Library team had the opportunity to meet with the Minister to discuss community-focused programmes and capture commemorative photos.

    Throughout the event, the library team actively networked with a broad spectrum of participating organisations including UWC, AFDA, TSIBA, Harambee, Standard Bank, Golden Arrow Bus Service, Vulamathuba Empumelelo, New Day United and Living Hope laying the groundwork for future collaborative community programmes.

    The EmpowerU Career Expo reinforced the evolving role of modern libraries as vital hubs for social and economic development. By connecting residents with industry leaders and educational resources, Claremont Library continues to demonstrate that our facilities are not just quiet spaces for books, but active launchpads for community empowerment.

    By Phindiwe Gana

    Librarian

    Claremont Library

  • Science Week 2026: STEAM, NASA Dreams and Young Visionaries at Amazon Headquarters

    Young minds explore unplugged coding and STEAM concepts during the LIS Science Week event hosted at Amazon Head Offices on 14 August

    When 70 vibrant learners walked into Amazon’s headquarters in Observatory for National Science Week, they didn’t just attend an event; they stepped directly into the future!

    In a powerful partnership between City Libraries and Amazon, now in its second year running, the room was transformed into an interactive launchpad for young minds. Twelve dynamic exhibitors representing the full spectrum of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) set up shop to offer hands-on immersion into everything from robotics and unplugged coding to artificial intelligence and flash art. Learners were also given the opportunity to chat directly with industry professionals about study paths and real-world career choices, including librarianship as a profession.

    Matthew Granger from the LIS Marketing team breaks down how marketing and strategic communications drive modern library services during a career chat with learners

    Celebrating Youth Leadership & Literacy

    The excitement extended beyond the exhibition tables with the crowning of the Teen Library Ambassador Challenge winner: 16-year-old Junior Saule, from Mfuleni Library! Portfolio Chairperson Councillor Ronel Viljoen presented the award to him, as the room celebrated Junior’s passionate submission about his love for reading and his local library.

    Portfolio Chairperson Councillor Ronel Viljoen alongside MC Kayla Johnson awarding Teen Library Ambassador Social Media Competition winner Junior Saule of Mfuleni Library

    Inspiration from the Junior Council

    The day was further elevated by Cape Town’s Junior Council. Junior Mayor Pierce Beaulieu delivered an inspiring message on resilience and perseverance, joined by standout leaders like Junior Councillor Qaylah Omar, who recently qualified for and won the International Space Settlement Design Competition at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. Three fellow Junior Councillors also brought serious tech credentials, having participated in the prestigious AI for Africa programme.

    Keeping the Momentum Going

    The Amazon event was just one piece of the bigger picture. Across the city, our libraries kept the spark alive throughout Science Month with local science shows, hands-on experiments, and inspiring career talks, encouraging young patrons to stay curious and reach for the stars. Our Marketing & Communications team captured the energy of the month in a highlight reel, now live on the City’s social media platforms. Watch the highlight video here to see our libraries in action.

    A huge thank you to the team who made it all possible and library staff across the city who continue to create transformative, high-impact experiences for our youth!

    By Tasneem Adriaanse

    Senior Professional Officer: Youth Services

    Professional Programmes & Services (PSP)

  • 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

  • Inspiring Young Writers at Wynberg Library!

    On 3 March 2026, Wynberg Library buzzed with creative energy as we hosted a dynamic writing workshop featuring acclaimed feminist writer and researcher, Jen Thorpe. With a diverse portfolio ranging from novels to children’s books, Jen brought a wealth of expertise to an inspired group of learners from Voortrekker High School. The session was a vibrant celebration of local talent, bridging the gap between established authors and the next generation of storytellers.

    Throughout the interactive workshop, students explored various writing techniques and imaginative prompts designed to build their confidence. It was wonderful to see a welcoming space emerge where learners felt empowered to share their thoughts and begin crafting their own unique narratives. To add to the excitement, Jen generously gave away copies of her books as spot prizes, sparking even more enthusiasm and making the day truly unforgettable for everyone involved.

    The impact of the day is already being felt, with many participants now eager to dive into their own writing projects. We are optimistic that these original pieces will eventually be compiled and published on the Libby app, providing these young writers with a digital platform to reach a wider audience. This event was a meaningful step in nurturing a lifelong love for literacy and highlights the incredible value of connecting our youth with the voices of local authors.

    Amanda Mgodeli

    Librarian

    Wynberg Library

  • Anchoring Ambitions: Simon’s Town Library Hosts Successful Career Expo

    As part of their ongoing community outreach initiatives, Simon’s Town Library partnered with Fish Hoek High School to host a successful Career Expo aimed at supporting learners with post-school planning. The expo featured over 12 different institutions, offering learners a wide range of study and career opportunities. The library partnered with Absa Bank, providing learners with valuable information and tips on financial planning and funding options for furthering their studies.

    Grade 9-12 learners were invited to attend and the engagement levels were encouraging. Notably, there was significant interest in libraries as a career path, with many learners enquiring about qualifications, study routes and opportunities available within the library and information services sector. The event strengthened partnerships between the library and local schools while successfully positioning the library as both an information hub and a gateway to future career possibilities.

    Amber Christians

    Library Assistant

    Simonstown Library

  • Inspiring Young Voices Through Art: Bonteheuwel Library Showcases Talent at Imagine Nation Exhibition

    In a powerful demonstration of community and creativity, Bonteheuwel Library joined forces with the Cape Town Museum of Childhood to launch the Imagine Nation Art Project. Supported by the City of Cape Town, the initiative was designed with a single, vital goal: to give our local youth a canvas to share their stories and perspectives with the world.

    The project culminated in a special exhibition this past November, hosted at the Cape Town Museum of Childhood. The gallery walls came alive with the vibrant, imaginative works of learners from Bergsig Primary School and other young participants. For many of these children it was a monumental moment seeing their personal artwork treated with the professional prestige of a museum setting.

    Beyond paint and paper, the collaboration emphasized our library’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of voices. By providing a platform for artistic expression, our library isn’t just teaching techniques but affirming that our children’s perspectives are valuable and worth celebrating. The exhibition left attendees deeply moved by the raw talent and unique outlooks on display, proving that when we invest in creative spaces, our community’s spirit shines through.

    Patricia April

    Librarian 

    Bonteheuwel library